Jamie Begian. Photo: Marcy Begian
Big bands, for a brief period, were considered antiquated and basically not cool. Blame rock and roll, as jazz lovers generally do about every ill in society. Yet, one of the reasons large bands were in decline was due to cost. Anyone who has attempted to take a trio on the road is aware of the expense. Multiply it by five, and there’s a major hitch. Luckily, over time and generous grants, many big bands were able to be sustain and evolve.
Darcy James Argue and Jason Lindner are frequently names heard in the New York music scene. Each is an innovator willing to merge the body of a classic big band with originality, intelligence, and style. Jamie Begian is also a member of this unique club.
The guitarist/composer and his seventeen-piece band performed Tuesday with a true understanding of our city. The music felt like New York in summer- loud, busy, and well-organized chaos. The laid back leader moved through the set so easily it almost didn’t seem like work. Yet, with all the solid solos and near equal time for all, it is clear that a great deal of work went into developing such a fine set. A standout number, “Halay”, is based on an old Armenian composition. Begian explained that he pulled the groove and built it up from there. The result is a swinging, multilayered piece of musical art.
His latest release, Big Fat Grin, is available now. Visit www.jamiebegian.com for more information.
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