Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band

The Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band was a Jazz Big band formed by trumpeter Thad Jones and drummer Mel Lewis around 1965.

Related Topics:
Jazz - Big band - Thad Jones - Mel Lewis - 1965

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The group, also known as the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, started out as a bunch of all-star studio musicians getting together for midnight practice sessions at any place within walking distance from Jim and Andy's, a bar frequented by New York musicians. They eventually debuted at the Village Vanguard in New York in 1966. They were quickly noticed by jazz insiders for their originality and virtuoso skills.

Related Topics:
Village Vanguard - New York

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The band had its own unique style, along the lines of big band swing, Bebop and Hardbop. The sound was powerful, fast, intellectual and fun to listen to. Their pieces required a high degree of skill to play. Thad Jones, an improvisational genius on the trumpet, led the group. Mel Lewis, co-leader, produced a drum style with the band that was unique for Big bands. His cymbal work added a texture and richness that is one of the hallmarks of the band.

Related Topics:
Swing - Bebop - Hardbop

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The Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Big Band was the most influential Big Band since the swing era. It was also an unusual band; creating new styles, succeeding in an era where big bands were out of favor, and remaining integrated during racially tense periods. The band initially was made of all-stars, but over time endeavored to showcase new talent (Jon Faddis).

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The band performed for twelve years in its original incarnation, and included a tour of the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War. The collaboration ended in 1978 with Jones suddenly moving to Denmark, after which the band became the Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra.

Related Topics:
Soviet Union - Cold War - 1978 - Denmark

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The band won a Grammy in 1979 for the album Live in Munich and continued to play every Monday night at the Vanguard for more than three decades, even after the demise of Mel and the loss of Thad. It is now known as the Vanguard Jazz orchestra.

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