Fourteen-member, mixed High School vocal jazz ensemble 5-Alone was founded by Director Lechner in the fall of 1999. The group's performances of tight 5-part harmonies (hence the moniker 5-Alone) have since earned acclaim from some of the most prestigious names in jazz, including numerous Downbeat awards, top three placement in a Harmony Sweeps Regional (we assume they trimmed down to 7 members for that appearance), and performances at the International Association of Jazz Educators' annual conference and the North Sea Jazz Fest. Their 2003 CD "Good Vibrations" won a CARA for "Best High School Album." There are 11 tasty jazz cuts here, the Real Group's Anders Edenroth's "Thousand Things" (Anders also arranges "Body and Soul"), Harry Connick, Jr.'s "Heavenly," Brian Wilson's anthem "God Only Knows," "One Day I'll Fly Away," the upbeat, finger-snapping "I'm With You," very cool vocal percussion on "In The Waiting Line," the bluesy "Can't Stop Thinking 'Bout You," and the striking "Silence of Time" are particularly fine. A poised, impressive 2nd CD from this young, talented, well-directed, fast-rising ensemble! |
