Clark Tracey - The Jazz Champions (2025) [Hi-Res]

British drummer Clark Tracey formed a new ensemble, "The Jazz Champions," comprising virtuoso musicians and long-time collaborators: Art Themen, Simon Allen, Dave Newton, and Andrew Cleyndert. The group was assembled urgently to fulfill UK tour obligations, which subsequently proved highly successful. The collective's repertoire is based on new arrangements of works by composers such as Chick Corea, Jimmy Heath, and Stan Tracey. A significant element of the program is a modern jazz interpretation of Queen's hit "We Are The Champions," arranged by Simon Allen and recorded with vocalist Sylvia McEwen, symbolizing the bandleader's successful overcoming of lineup challenges.

Clark Tracey: drums
Art Themen: reeds
Simon Allen: reeds
Dave Newton: piano
Andrew Cleyndert: bass
Sylvia McEwen: vocal (track 6)

Tracklist:
1. Clark Tracey - Matrix
2. Clark Tracey - A Sound for Sore Ears
3. Clark Tracey - CUCB
4. Clark Tracey - Euphony
5. Clark Tracey - Snap Crackle
6. Clark Tracey - We Are the Champions