JAZZ / ALBUM REVIEWS : Benson, Mathis Pay Tribute to Count Basie, Ellington

*** 1/2 JOHNNY MATHIS “In a Sentimental Mood” Columbia

Will this fall between the cracks? There is no rock or rap or fusion, not even much jazz, yet on its own terms Mathis’ tribute to Duke Ellington succeeds. Recording in a church in England using two orchestras, one with strings and one regular big band, Mathis captures the essence of the songs whether in ballad vein or swinging, as he does on “What Am I Here For?” and others. Bill Berry’s trumpet and the baritone sax of Ronnie Ross provide the best of the jazz moments. There is a long orchestral overture, and although he is heard on 13 numbers, Mathis steps back while five songs (including “Caravan” and “Perdido”) are performed as instrumentals (mainly as piano solos by Fred Hersch that fade out somewhat pointlessly). On balance this is a well-crafted attempt to reach the classic-pop audience.