"Jazz Mass" is a truly unique album from the mastermind of composer/arranger Jim Duff that juxtaposes and fuses a symphonic orchestra, a big band, and a choir to create brilliant classical and jazz compositions. Duff amassed fifty-five of Newfoundland's finest musical talents, drawing mainly from the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra and the Quintessential Vocal Ensemble, but also showcasing sprouted talents from in and around the community. The result is, guaranteed, something you have never heard before in your life. The fantastic vocals of the Quintessential Vocal Ensemble can stand alone like in a chamber choir or accompany the big band and classical sounds of the Orchestra, then halt for a traditional jazz composition with a sax solo. It can be sudden and contrast moods, but it is excellent, and probably for that reason. "Jazz Mass" is well-produced, and all of the diverse sounds are recorded to their utmost quality. "Gloria" well combines the chamber choir, big band orchestra, and jazz ensemble with great booming vocals that sing the chorus of the traditional hymn, and then moves into a fusion of horns with the traditional jazz sound that features a mean saxophone solo. "Beatus" begins with a great vocal performance from the Vocal Ensemble as they sing about the "Be" attitudes and then moves into a great jazz song with piano, drums, and xylophone. Jim Duff has composed and arranged a beautiful, incredibly original "Jazz Mass" that is sure to be admired by anyone who respects well-crafted music. Fans of big band, jazz, and excellent vocal ensembles will be interested to find out what this "Jazz Mass" is really all about.
-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team Check out Jim Duff's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites
