From its origins at Joliet Junior College in 1969-’70, Brass Tacks has evolved from a student rehearsal band into one whose members are now largely dependent on day gigs to make ends meet, all the while maintaining professional chops on their respective instruments. The variety of jobs represented among the bandsmen include policeman, waitress, piano tuner and lawyer, but the personnel’s dedication to big band jazz will surely be appreciated by anyone aware of the odds these days against being able to survive without a second source of income. Good charts, good soloists, and good sectional playing abound throughout the 12 tracks, which are highlighted by such standards as “In A Mellow Tone,” “Polka Dots And Moonbeams,” “Ain’t Misbehavin'” and Dizzy’s “Tanya.”
Brass Tacks Jazz Orchestra: First Track
JazzTimes may earn a small commission if you buy something using one of the retail links in our articles. JazzTimes does not accept money for any editorial recommendations. Read more about our policy here. Thanks for supporting JazzTimes.
