Danish Radio Big Band celebrates its 60th Anniversary with 'XL-LX' - a bold and expansive project that captures the essence of the band's sound in the 2020's. This ambitious collection features five commissioned compositions from five diverse composers, showcasing the versatility and modernity of large jazz ensemble music. Spanning nearly two hours of music, XL-LX illustrates the dynamic and distinctive voices within the Danish Radio Big Band. Recorded over the past eight years, the collection emphasises the band's role as the unifying element amidst diverse compositions.
1. Sparkles by Marilyn Mazur - this vibrant suite captures the synergy between Mazur's percussion and the big band, enhanced by the chemistry with young conductor Miho Hazama. Performed in Denmark and at international festivals in Bucharest and South Korea, Sparkles sets the energetic tone for the collection.
2. Roller Coaster by Carla Bley - inspired by Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens, this piece reflects Bley's lifelong fascination with amusement parks. Commissioned for a Scandinavian tour, it was recorded in a chance studio session, adding to the magic of the album.
3. The Mind Behind by Palle Mikkelborg - celebrating Mikkelborg's 75th birthday, this piece features three flugelhorn soloists and contributions from guest artists Marilyn Mazur, Helen Davies, and Mike Sheridan. Premiered at the Danish Radio's Concert House, it is a testament to Mikkelborg's profound influence on jazz.
4. Reflections for Clarinet & Jazz Orchestra by Peter Jensen - a re-imagining of Carl Nielsen's Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra, Opus 57, this composition highlights the talents of soloist Peter Fuglsang. It has captivated audiences in Denmark and at the Nordischer Klang Festival in Germany.
5. Suite Electus by Miho Hazama - comprising three movements played attacca, this suite marks Hazama's first composition for the big band. Debuted live alongside the release of XL-LX, it concludes the collection with a fresh and innovative perspective.
'XL-LX' is akin to an art gallery's opening night, where each composition stands as an individual masterpiece while collectively creating a harmonious exhibition. Just as a gallery owner curates diverse artworks to complement each other, the Danish Radio Big Band seamlessly integrates these compositions, allowing each to shine while enhancing the overall listening experience. Each LP in this unique 5-LP collection features a blank B-side, symbolising the ongoing potential for new artistic expressions. Join Storyville Records in celebrating 60 years of musical excellence with the release of XL-LX. This collection not only honors the Danish Radio Big Band's rich history but also heralds its vibrant future.
