Formed in 1977, the two-time Grammy Award-winning(*) Yellowjackets have just released their 27th studio album, Fasten Up. Founder member Russell Ferrante is alongside stalwarts Will Kennedy (with the band since 1987) and saxophonist, Bob Mintzer (since 1990), plus Australian bassist, Dane Alderson, who celebrates a decade with the group in April this year.

Fasten Up bursts with unbridled momentum spurred on with a vibrant blend of styles borrowing from old and new in equal measure. The disc hotfoots it out of the blocks with a 1960s classic Comin Home Baby (penned by bassist Ben Tucker) and covered by the likes of Herbie Mann, Mel Torme, Quincy Jones among many others. Its given a refreshingly updated treatment with Mintzer’s arrangement. His doubling of the melody on tenor and EWI along with his added reharmonisations catapult this 60 year perennial chestnut well into the millennium.

Alderson’s title tune bustles with its 1970s innovative and infectious grooves of Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters. A “thrustworthy” contribution indeed! Described by the composer as “a fun party tune which is fun to jam on amongst unexpected drum grooves”. Indeed so and not least for Alderson’s dusting off the cobwebs of the classic Fender Precision bass giving it more authenticity to the proceedings.

Ferrante’s unique and powerful contributions include The Unexpected Question- a reflective opus that brings about contrast to this collection. Mintzer’s poignantly stated melody is tinged with foreboding and uncertainty, but then brightens into a welcoming sonic atmosphere. This kind of breadth, variety and flow is what Yellowjackets bring to the party.

Fasten Up clearly offers up communal joy wedded with the thrill of discovery, and fairly bristles with elan. This legendary ensemble shows no signs of slowing down – this CD is a testament to that. Long may they continue.

from https://ukjazznews.com