Big Band Hymns is one of the most interesting recordings I have heard in a long time. When I first heard the album, it took me off guard a little bit. However, as I listened to all the tracks on the album, it sounded really refreshing. The disc uses very familiar gospel hymns and turns them into arrangements in the big band styles of Glenn Miller, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, and Stan Kenton. The arrangements are creatively done, keeping the spirit with the original hymns, and there is a good balance between the orchestra and the vocals.
Jack Jezzro and Chris McDonald (of The Chris McDonald Orchestra) do a great job with these arrangements. As you listen to the album, you will find the familiar melodies going through the different sections of the orchestra. For example, "Shall We Gather At The River" features a nice guitar solo, then turns the melody over to the saxophone, trumpet, and trombone sections at different times.
"Amazing Grace" is one of the most interesting of the arrangements. The soprano saxophone plays the original melody, then plays a variation of it. The accompaniment adds a haunting background throughout the arrangement.
A number of well-known Christian artists lend their vocal talents to this project. Babbie Mason brings a nice, easy style to "He Keeps Me Singing." The Martins pull off a very difficult vocal arrangement atop the hard-driving rhythms of "Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho." Both vocalists and orchestra get a work-out on this song. Also contributing vocals are Janet Paschal and Gaither Vocal Band lead singer Guy Penrod.
While Big Band Hymns may not be for everybody, those who appreciate music from that era should enjoy it thoroughly.
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