And Darcy‘s off and running. Infernal Machines is out in 3 weeks and already has a nice little review from James Hale at the Jazz Chronicles. Hale references DJA’s hit at the ultimate IAJE conference with Secret Society North and his (apparently groudbreaking – amongst the jazz illuminati, at least) use of social media.
The performance by the Canadian version of his big band, Secret Society—featuring an outrageously gifted trumpet section—was on the lips of everyone who caught it, and his views on digital marketing were the best illustration of the gaping divide between his generation and the establishment core of the soon-to-be-defunct IAJE.
If you, my loyal reader, have never heard Darcy, go listen now.
An exciting stylist with an abundance of ideas, Argue deserves his place alongside Schneider, Hollenbeck and other contemporary big band arrangers who are looking beyond traditional notions of what a large jazz orchestra should, and can, sound like.
I will grant that I’m not nearly as educated on the matter as I’d like to believe, but I am disappointed by critics’ immediate hearkening to Darcy’s fellow Brookmeyer alumni. There are few bands and writers actively seeking new territory (and only one that I know of drawing heavily from the “pop” music of my youth); it’s a pity they must all be lumped together.
Go out and pre-order your copy of DJA’s Infernal Machines today on May 12!
Hi Matthew,
Thanks for the the shout-out and for your kind words. For me, I don’t mind at all the comparisons to Maria and Hollenbeck! They are, after all, huge influences (I’ve studied with them both directly). But like any artist, I’ve got my own agenda and I’m flattered you think it is a worthwhile one.
Also, I’m afraid pre-orders are, sadly, not possible at this time. (FWIW, I pushed hard for them, but it was not to be, at least not yet.) People will have to place their orders on May 12 or thereafter.
If it’s any consolation, I promise instant gratification — if you order a CD from newamsterdamrecords.com you also get immediate access to MP3 downloads of the entire album.
Well, I don’t feel so bad for not having pre-ordered already! You bet yer britches I’ll be ordering.
I’d also be interested in securing a copy for the radio station I host for, WUSF 89.7 in Tampa. How do I go about that?
Clearly, the comparisons put you in great company; I wish there were a better vocabulary, though, as Maria and John both bring in a very different set of non-jazz influences.
No matter what, you’re all breaking boundaries!
You know I’ve been following closely since we met at the penultimate IAJE in NY. You and John revived my short attention span’s interest in big band. I’m wondering if you have any interest in bringing your music to other bands. I’m trying to start a series here with a forming educators’ band where we bring in outside composers/leaders once a year or so. Thoughts?
Have a great week, Darcy!