Skylines

If you're seeking proof that Portland's resident jazz musicians more than hold their own with anyone, anywhere, check out Kevin Deitz's array of original compositions featuring a plethora of Portlanders. Deitz writes melody lines that are contagiously swinging or elegantly flowing. And some marvelous Portland-based players are given generous opportunities to strut their stuff. A few examples: Paul Mazzio's exquisite flugelhorn solo on "New Beginnings"; Tim Jensen's flight on flute and John Stowell's rarefied guitar work on "Arch Cape"; Tony Pacini's sparkling piano solo on "I Forgot About You" or his more nostalgic side on "Romantic Novel"; the teaming of Mazzio's trumpet and Renato Caranto' tenor on "Sunny Side Up"; Mike Horsfall's high energy vibes solo on "San Juan"; and George Mitchell's tasty piano solos throughout. Kevin Deitz displays impressive skills as a composer, be it up-tempo romps, ballads or even Latin-tinged vehicles. He has long been admired (just ask the musicians) in Portland as a talented and versatile bassist. Now we get to hear what he's been up to as a composer as well. He was wise indeed to enlist the assistance of some of our best jazz musicians.