Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra@Pepperdine University 02.02.08
By George W. Harris

Ambling on stage to the support of bassist Carlos Henriquez, bandleader Wynton Marsalis set the pace of the evening as he crooned, coaxed and cajoled sweet music out of his golden trumpet, effortlessly gliding and floating until the velvety refrain of Ellington’s “Mood Indigo” rolled over the audience like a wave of lava. Emphasizing the romantic side of master Ellington’s music, Marsalis and the JLCO spent the 90 minutes emphasizing the richness of Ellington’s unmistakable sound: robust, relaxed, and above all romantic. With a band that has so many musicians that lead their own bands, it would be easy to assume that this would be a mindless blowing session of ego-filled artists. Furthest thing from the truth. Sweet and hot trumpeters Sean Jones and Marcus Printup projected joy and joviality during their chances at the spotlight. Jones’ “Satin Doll” was crisp and sharp, and Printup’s reading of “Boy Meets Horn” was slippery and saucy. Saxist Ted Nash produced heavenly sounds on “Sultry Sunset” the privilege of having his dad, legendary trombonist Dick Nash, join in on a lively treatment of “C Jam Blues”. The creamy reed section of anchored by baritonist Joe Temperley was able to shift from the sublime “Lady of Lavender Mist” to the raucous closing “Rockin’ In Rhythm” without batting an eye. At Pepperdine University, professor Marsalis delivered a perfect class on true music appreciation.