PAPATAMUS REDUX

PALMETTO 202301 (RECORDED AUGUST 2023)

Brian Landrus brings a new richness to the music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn on Plays Ellington and Strayhorn. Some of that richness comes from the lyrical and luxurious sound of Landrus’ baritone, whose style is much like Harry Carney, Ellington’s long-time baritone player – a combination of Coleman Hawkins in the upper register and Adrian Rollini when he hits those lower notes. The real richness, however, comes from the elegant and imaginative arrangements Landrus crafted for his arsenal of instruments (bass sax, bass clarinet, contra alto clarinet, piccolo, and alto and bass flutes) that provide the cushion upon which his baritone soars. Supported by guitarist Dave Stryker, bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Billy Hart, Landrus (and his reed/flute section) cover 14 Ellington and Strayhorn tunes — from rarely performed compositions such as “The Telecaster” from Ellington’s Such Sweet Thunder to Strayhorn’s masterpiece “Lush Life.”  With the exception of “The Telecaster” and “Daydream,” which is transformed into a bossa nova, most of the selections tend to focus on the more lyrical and haunting melodies in the Ellington/Strayhorn library such as “Chelsea Bridge,” “A Flower is a Lovesome Thing” and Star Crossed Lovers.” These are perfect songs for Landrus’ compelling and haunting arrangements that make the most of the artistry of Stryker and Anderson as well as the  creative drumming of Billy Hart (check out his brush work on “The Telecaster”) all underscored by the combination of reeds and flutes which are all played by Landrus. Arranger Ayn Inserto adds her own sense of richness to “Warm Valley,” which opens with cascading flute lines foreshadowing the melody performed by Landrus and the trio as the reed/flute ensemble create a sound somewhat reminiscent of Charlie Parker with strings. The album concludes with Landrus’ tour de force on a solo version of “Sophisticated Lady.” If you are a fan of the baritone sax, Ellington and Strayhorn and inventive arrangements, discover the riches that await you in Plays Ellington and Strayhorn.

BOTTOM LINE: Plays Ellington and Strayhorn would have been a great release for baritone saxophonist Brian Landrus had he played the 14 tunes accompanied by his quartet of guitarist Dave Stryker, bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Billy Hart. Instead, Landrus created elegant arrangements for his bass sax, bass clarinet, contra alto clarinet, piccolo, flute and bass flute giving these masterpieces a truly masterpiece sound all their own.