In the last Jazznicity column, I focused on meat-and-potatoes big bands in Tokyo. But in addition to those bands that work directly in the jazz tradition, there are many others seeking to extend its range of possibilities.
In traditional big bands, the trumpet, trombone, saxophone and rhythm sections all work together toward a smooth, harmonious unity. Energy and soloing are important, but only if it sounds good. These new big bands, however, don't shy away from dissonance or disruption. They bring in fresh sounds, styles and structures to intentionally create musical tensions. By drawing on free jazz, blues, funk, Caribbean, classical or art music, these big band innovators create a sound that may not be as pretty but is often more interesting.
Well-known jazz trumpeter Tomonao Hara and pianist Yuki Arimasa created the Siena Brass Fantasy to experiment with a mixture of jazz and classical techniques. They combine carefully composed charts, horn players culled from classical orchestras and a jazz rhythm section. This musical hybrid often goes under the name third-stream jazz, and the music, which trades jazz swing for classical harmonies, is lush and orchestral. There is still room for improvisation, but the quality of musicianship is the real pull here. The musicians' control and nuanced reading of the compositions makes for an elegant, unjazzlike sound.