There is a remarkable level of sophistication running through My Favorite Things, the latest album from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble 1. Under the direction of Dave Loeb and Nathan Tanouye, the big band delivers a vibrant collection of jazz standards and contemporary compositions, balancing the grandeur of traditional big-band jazz with an adventurous approach to arranging.
The album opens with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “My Favorite Things,” reimagined through a lively arrangement by Tanouye. Veteran Las Vegas entertainer Clint Holmes brings warmth, charisma, and a playful theatrical quality to the familiar melody, while trombonist Matt Ellis and pianist Tristan Selzler provide contrasting instrumental flourishes. The performance establishes the album’s central appeal: carefully coordinated ensemble playing that still leaves plenty of room for individual expression.
https://unlvjazz.bandcamp.com/album/my-favorite-things
“Whirlybird,” is among the early highlights, as the piece provides an opportunity for the orchestra to demonstrate its command of hard-swinging big-band jazz stepping into the spotlight. The arrangement thrives on rhythmic momentum and the spirited interplay between the brass and reed sections, capturing the infectious energy that made the original such an enduring favourite. Elsewhere, “Softly as in a Morning Sunrise” offers a different kind of excitement. Javier Nero’s arrangement provides a dramatic setting for vocalist Eva Yazdanpanah, complemented by expressive solos from saxophonists Jason Knuckles and Renzon Maballo and trumpeter Kyte Mettke.
Perhaps the album’s most ambitious moment arrives with “Just Squeeze Me,” an imaginative reworking of Duke Ellington’s classic by student arranger Renzon Maballo. Stretching beyond eight minutes, the piece transforms a familiar jazz standard into a more elaborate orchestral statement, incorporating intricate ensemble writing and a distinctly contemporary sensibility.
Another standout, “Flying Dragons,” showcases pianist Tristan Selzler’s arranging abilities. His treatment of Hans Halt’s composition brings an intriguing change of atmosphere, with Selzler and Montero taking prominent solo roles. The piece offers a compelling example of the ensemble’s willingness to explore material beyond the conventional big-band repertoire. Finally, a spirited rendition of “Cherokee” closes the record on an energetic note, with an impressive succession of solos from trumpeters
Miles Ray and Kyte Mettke, baritone saxophonist David Nguyen, and trombonist Matt Ellis.
The thing about My Favorite Things is that its wide-ranging repertoire can make the album feel like a showcase of exceptional individual talents. Yet this variety is also fundamental to its charm. The album succeeds as a spirited celebration of the big-band tradition and a convincing glimpse into the future of jazz, delivered by a generation of young musicians who already sound remarkably accomplished.