Voices (U of Memphis album)


Voices is an initial 2007 compact disc by the University of Memphis Southern Comfort Jazz Orchestra recorded in the studio. This was their 1st full-length feature CD release since a LP recording under the direction of Gene Rush in 1987. Since the late 1960s this group has been consistently recognized as one of the top collegiate jazz ensembles in the country recently being invited to the 2011 Jazz Education Network Convention, the 2000 International Association for Jazz Education Convention, and touring Europe in 1998. Musicians from this CD went on to study with Bob Brookmeyer at the New England Conservatory of Music, Indiana University, work professionally, and teach at universities.

Background

The University of Memphis Southern Comfort Jazz Orchestra CD Voices was recorded to present a wide range of music to include tunes arranged of past University of Memphis alumni Mulgrew Miller and James Williams. Before this release the group was honored to be included on the 3 CD compilation Memphis Jazz Box in 2004 released by Ice House Records. U of M Jazz Orchestra alumni include James Williams, Mulgrew Miller, Tony Reedus, Donald Brown, Bill Easley, and Bill Mobley.

Track listing

Track Listing:

Recording Sessions

"...that the playing is so impressive and has the feeling of being effortless on what must have been rather difficult charts to master...it is the rich ensemble sound that makes this CD most memorable"
JazzTimes.com
"Throughout Voices, the writing is quite colorful, adventurous and challenging"
JazzTimes.com