Richard Wess - Shepard’s Flock / Music She Digs the Most (2019)

The band on Shepard’s Flock is—almost—an All-Star band. It was the debut album of trombonist Tommy Shepard, and the leader, naturally, is heavily featured on trombone, playing with the soft, velvety sound of Tommy Dorsey, his main influence. The memories of Dorsey’s band frequently illuminate the scene, as the musicians load through familiar material and some originals. The arrangements, which stress tight harmonic writing, are all by Manny Albam and Nat Pierce, except Darn That Dream and Stop! Look and Run! which were worked out by Al Cohn, and they all keep in a rolling, relaxed groove.

Music She Digs the Most is a well-organized series of sessions arranged and conducted by pianist Richard Wess. Wess has Cabin in the Sky all to himself, and he comes off as a flowing and sensitive player. Cohn, always blowing with taste and his handsome tone; Travis sounds great throughout, particularly on Lover Man, a moving and declarative solo vehicle for his horn. Rehak managed to express himself effectively, and Richard Wess’ writing on the heads is neat and spare, and helps the group achieve a nice big band feel.