Symphonic Sounds From Turre’s Brass and Shells

Turre’s eponymous album brings together his many sides: strong trombonist, ambitious composer-arranger-bandleader and master of coaxing music from conch shells. Here he works with a full palette of brass, percussion and strings to produce a program sprinkled with stirring, nearly symphonic moments (Turre’s “The Emperor”) that’s only infrequently cluttered or over-produced.

Cuban and Brazilian rhythms prevail as hoots and windy riffs blown from the shells give way to high-style trombone solos, often backed by strings. Vocalist Cassandra Wilson brings moodiness to Ellington’s “In a Sentimental Mood,” and 81-year-old bolero master Graciela Perez sings Jose Antonio Mendez’s “Ayer Lo Vi Llorar” with surprising passion. Mongo Santamaria adds conga patter on the spirited “Mongo ‘n’ McCoy,” and trombonists Robin Eubanks, Frank Lacy and Jimmy Bosch (all doubling on shells) serve as slide choir to Turre’s and guest Britt Woodman’s solos. Other participants include fluegelhornist Jon Faddis, trumpeter Randy Brecker, bassist Andy Gonzalez, violinist Regina Carter and drummer Victor Lewis. An impressive orchestral statement.

* Editor’s note: Steve Turre will perform at the Veterans Wadsworth Theatre in Brentwood on June 7.

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