Detroit is a new composition by Los Angeles resident Gerald Wilson and his fourth release on Mack Avenue Records. This multiple part suite was written for a big band ensemble and was commissioned by the Detroit International Jazz Festival. Detroit was recorded by Wilson's New York and Los Angeles big bands. Wilson's memories of Detroit differ from the current state of the city. Wilson spent his high school days there studying music. For Wilson, Detroit was a city of progressive social politics, integrated schools and regional and national jazz bands.
"Blues on the Belle Isle" is the opening section of this release. This bluesy up tempo tune uses dexterously voiced ensemble harmonies and features an agile violin solo before ending on a dissonant chord. "Blues on the Belle Isle" is followed by "Cass Tech," which shares a similar harmony to the Benny Golson tune "Along Came Betty". The title track of the release begins with a flute playing against lush ensemble horn voicings and a mournful melody.
"Before Motown" provides some needed contrast by switching to a Latin feel with some soaring trumpet work. "Aram" is the final movement of Detroit. This capstone movement is a jaunting waltz that fades out with a saxophone solo.Detroit stays solidly within the tradition of big band writing and avoids musically pushing the envelope. However, Wilson excels in this style and has managed a fitting tribute to the city. This release is an ideal choice for lovers of big band music and America's Motor City. -----Jarvis Raymond