Kevin O’Donnell’s Quality Six: Control Freak

With a stylistic spread that encompasses swing-era jump bands, Raymond Scott whimsy and The Ventures’ guitar-laden effusions, drummer O’Donnell’s sextet seems to be aiming at a wide audience. Some ensembles feature tight voicings of alto and tenor saxophones, violin and guitar. O’Donnell, guitarist Colin Bunn and violinist Andrew Bird provide the most solo interest. When Bunn plays rhythm guitar, the swing gains focus. The saxophone solos are rudimentary. O’Donnell’s drumming, particularly in his solo on the title track, is impressive. A few of the 13 original compositions have lyrics aimed at teenagers or listeners with teenage senses of humor.

Originally Published January 1, 2001