Presenting Thad Jones • Mel Lewis & "The Jazz Orchestra" - Thad Jones • Mel Lewis* & "The Jazz Orchestra"* - LP - Pre Owned Vinyl (Arrives in 21days)

When Thad Jones and Mel Lewis assembled their Jazz Orchestra in 1966, they did more than form a new big band—they reignited the creative spark of the jazz ensemble tradition for a new generation. 'Presenting Thad Jones • Mel Lewis & "The Jazz Orchestra"' is a masterclass in modern big band writing, brimming with Jones' inventive arrangements and Lewis' masterful drumming. Each chart is a tapestry of sharp brass, fluid reeds, and propulsive rhythm, balancing sophistication with a crackling, live-in-the-room vitality. This debut captures a rare moment where seasoned swing meets post-bop adventurousness, with soloists carving out bold statements over intricate yet swinging frameworks. The album’s historical importance is matched by its sheer joy and momentum—it's a listening experience that rewards close attention and repeat visits. For collectors, this is not just a record; it’s a document of jazz’s ongoing evolution, and a testament to the collaborative spirit that kept the big band idiom alive and thriving in the late 1960s. Essential for anyone who values the intersection of tradition, innovation, and the spirited energy of live performance. Track List: A1 - Once Around - 5:23 A2 - Willow Weep For Me - 5:33 A3 - Balanced Scales = Justice - 4:54 A4 - Three In One - 5:45 B1 - Mean What You Say - 5:26 B2 - Don't Ever Leave Me - 4:32 B3 - A B C Blues - 12:53