Threnody

'These are the times that try men's souls. At least we have music to help us weather the storm.' - Jim McNeely

Jim McNeely, one of the most progressive writers in contemporary big band jazz, composed the album Threnody, released 9 September 2022, for the JOC. The American pianist, arranger and composer was the orchestra's (virtual) Composer in Residence in 2021. It turned out to be an exceptional time, which not only influenced the composition process but also resonated musically. The album was recorded at Wisseloord studios and in the compositions, McNeely relied on the talents and interests of the soloists. These new arrangements are not led and performed by a conductor, but by drummer Martijn Vink. According to McNeely: ‘He is simply one of the greatest drummers, anywhere.’

Initially, Threnody (lament, lament) was dedicated to those affected by the disruptive corona pandemic but time has caught up with the album and McNeely has decided to dedicate it also to the victims of the next crisis we find ourselves in: the attack on freedom and democracy. Threnody is an album that stands in the middle of society and covers the whole breadth of human emotions. For instance, Old School brings nostalgia for Saturday nights in American R&B pubs, Pyramid Scheme a blues in motion and Un Cri de Coeur an impassioned but persistent plea. Through inspiration from Cole Porter's What Is This Thing Called Love and a variation on My Foolish Heart, McNeely and the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw provide a refreshing and powerful contribution to contemporary big band jazz.

Reviews

‘An exceptionally beautiful big band album, the likes of which are sadly few and far between.’ ●●●● - De Volkskrant

‘Threnody has become a memorable CD; yet another musical diamond with which The Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw, now an institution, confirms its reputation time and again’ - Jazzflits

‘A magnificent album with which the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw fully endorses its international quality.’ - Jazzenzo

‘The Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw shows, on ‘Threnody’, released by Challenge Records International, that the tradition of the big band is still alive and kicking.’ - New Notes

‘For friends of good big band music, the cooperation of the JOC with Jim McNeely is a must!’ - Jazz'n More