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Jazz Surge
 Gerald Wilson conducts the Jazz Surge during the Jazz Masterworks Series is the fourth CD released by this ground-breaking big band based in Central Florida. Described alternatively as inventive, colorful, playful, provocative, and swinging; the Surge’s three previous CDs have caught the imagination of fans and critics alike. JazzTimes journalist, David Franklin, included the band’s first release in his “5 best CDs of 1996” while critics from other noted jazz publications have consistently offered up glowing reviews. With guest appearances from such jazz luminaries as the late Nat Adderley, Benny Golson, John Abercrombie, Ingrid Jensen, Tim Hagans, and others, their CDs have consistently charted on national jazz radio and have appeared on playlists throughout the world – from the Far East to South America and Europe. The Comet’s Tail: Performing the Compositions of Michael Brecker Three appearances before enthusiastic crowds at IAJE Conferences: Atlanta (1996) – performing works from their 1st CD; New York (2001) – premiering Chuck’s ASCAP/IAJE commissioned work; & New York (2004) – performing works from “Here We Are” with Ingrid Jensen and Rob Thomas) cemented their reputation for thrilling, energetic performances.
In 2004, another venture of Chuck Owen’s was launched – the USF Center for Jazz Composition. With the Center’s ambitious and broad-ranging programming, the need for a resident jazz orchestra was quickly apparent . . . and immediately fell to the Jazz Surge. So, in April 2005, the CJC debuted its Jazz Masterworks series. For the next 3 ½ years the Surge performed over 35 concert, introducing audiences throughout Central Florida to classic jazz repertory while backing a continual stream of renowned guest jazz composers/artists. Included in this group were luminaries such as: Karrin Allyson, Randy Brecker, Chick Corea, Nneena Freelon, Slide Hampton, Bob Mintzer, and Gerald Wilson. During this same time, the CJC twice hosted the International Jazz Composers’ Symposium – bringing jazz composers from all over the country (and beyond) to Tampa for 3 days of lectures, workshops, concerts, and new music sessions. Once again, the Surge served as official ensemble-in-residence reading the compositions of over two dozen composers by day, while presenting the music of several of the featured guest artists – Bob Brookmeyer, Bill Holman, & Jim McNeely – in concert at night. But the largest project the Surge has undertaken in conjunction with the CJC has been the Michael Brecker Tribute project which has, ultimately, resulted in their fourth CD.
What Others Have Said About the Jazz Surge . . . .One of the 5 best CDs of 1996 David Franklin, Jazz Times “NOT your mother’s big band!” All About Jazz “. . . ambitious, forward-thinking compositions.” Philip Booth, Downbeat. “. . . the ensemble lets out all the stops to bring the session to a thunderous climax. A superb big band. . . . Jack Bowers, Cadence. “Owen manages to balance the finesse of his arrangements with . . . bop outbursts. A smoldering big band date.” David Lands, Jazz Journal “Owen knows all about hijinks, mayhem, and fun. Madcap consists of . . . knockouts.” “This is the kind of record one returns to with increasing pleasure.” “Chuck Owen . . . leads the Surge through a set that looks forward. . . . . . . .a bravura performance.” Curtis, Ross, Tampa Tribune, “. . . .a progressive big band playing at its finest.” Dave Nathan, All About Jazz. “Owen paints with intriguing hues . . . some of the tastiest contemporary sounds around.” “ . . . .it never stops swinging!” J.R. Killoch, Mainly Big Bands Owen recalls, “Thad at his most colorful and playful.” Owen Cordle, JazzTimes, |
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