Bernstein in Vienna

Composer-conductor Leonard Bernstein was a musical chameleon who effortlessly traversed musical styles and genres on which he built an unparalleled legacy. Drummer Peter Erskine (who celebrates his 70th birthday this month), along with the musicians that make up Vienna's Jam Music Lab All-Stars: Robert Unterköfler (tenor), Bertl Mayer (harmonica), Cozy Friedel (violin), Andreas Varady (guitar), Danny Grissett (piano) and Danny Ziemann (bass), embark on a captivating journey through the composer's timeless melodies in this live recording at the Funkhaus in Vienna, Austria.

Bernstein in Vienna's eight tracks are carefully chosen from Broadway musicals and offer a testament to the timelessness of Bernstein's music. The iconic West Side Story (1957), the charming Wonderful Town (1953) and the timeless On The Town (1944) are all represented. From the start, Erskine and the Jam Music Lab All-Stars demonstrate virtuosity, versatility and a keen attention to detail in this diverse selection of Bernstein repertoire. Their understanding of the maestro's work is evident in their interpretations, starting with the opening track, "Somewhere" (arranged by Alan Pasqua), which sets the tone for the session. Taken by the trio of Erskine, Grissett and bassist Ziemann as a ballad, they find layers of nuance with a warm, soft glow, breathing new life into this piece's familiar melody. Erskine's precise drumming and Grissett's sophisticated piano playing add depth to the chart. "I Feel Pretty" skips along brightly,
beginning with Mayer stating the theme, then segues into a solo by the harmonica player, showcasing his unique flair while Varady, Unterköfler and Grissett, against the swirling rhythmic undercurrents, provide color and texture to the number. Continuing in an up-tempo fashion, "It's Love" is buoyed by the leader's expressive rhythmic performance, setting the table for solos by Grissett, Unterköfler, Mayer, Friedel and Varady, all who are effortlessly charismatic. The closer is "Cool" (from West Side Story) in an arrangement that engages each member of the band, developing a sense of collaboration and camaraderie as their passion shines through each and every note.

In celebrating Bernstein's legacy, Peter Erskine and the Jam Music Lab All-Stars have created a fitting tribute to one of the most influential figures in 20th-century music.