By Richard Bennett: Jazzwise Magazine, June 2011
While the collaborations of arranger/composer Gil Evans and jazz icon Miles Davis, produced some seminal albums, during the late 50s and early 60s, it’s not very often that you have the chance to hear their work in a live situation. Tonight, that chance came in the form of the 1958 album Porgy and Bess, performed in its entirety, courtesy of the University of Southampton’s Progression Ensemble featuring Abram Wilson. From the dramatic opening notes of the albums first track, the Buzzard Song, it was evident that the complex arrangements of Evans were in safe hands. Led by musical director Dan Mar-Molinero, the group of young players stayed true to the feel of the albums original sound. With a strong trumpet and trombone section, Evans ability to make a big sound with so few instruments was carried off with ease.
Abram Wilson’s subtle and emotional playing was allowed to roam and at times soar throughout the evening, thanks in part to the solid foundation provided by the reeds of Rosie Stano, Teresina Morra, Anna Robinson and Lizzie Parkes. The rhythm section of double bass player Will Scott-Hartley and Alex Storksen-Coulson on drums held down the low end, allowing Wilson to prove why he is currently one of the hottest jazz trumpeters around.
