Mike Holober
Quake
Sunnyside Records
By George W. Harris

You’d think that a big band disc with the title “Quake” would be some sort of tribute to Kenton or Ferguson. Gotcha on this one. This disc by pianist/leader Holober, who first came on the scene with Nick Brignola8 0s quartet, is a velvety sub toned journey through ethereal sounds and nuances. More in the line of Maria Schneider, Bill Holman and Gil Evans, Holober and his 17 piece Gotham Orchestra makes his mark with gentle blends of reeds and brass. His originals like “Thrushes” flutter with clarinets, flutes and trombones, while “Note To Self” has a sweet alto spotlight with Dave Pietro. Barely recognizable, but enjoyable nonetheless, are completely revamped classic rock hits. George Harrison’s “Here Comes The Sun” has hushed tones and guitar work, while the Rolling Stones’ “Ruby Tuesday” is given a clever mid-east beat that makes it psychedelic in it’s own sort of way. Subtle, yet effective music.