Eyal Vilner Big Band swings it out of the park with Hot House

by Gwen Kelly

Bandleader, multi-instrumentalist (alto sax, clarinet, flute) and arranger Eyal Vilner’s aesthetic is pure swing era. He’s built a big band of top Big Apple musicians dedicated to playing swinging jazz for dancers. He’s really serious about that goal, having recorded his latest album, Swing Out!, in a studio with dancers. The self-produced CD also includes BPM’s (beats per minute) for the dozen tunes, which range from New Orleans staples to Count Basie and Benny Goodman band numbers. As a plus, Eyal’s band includes vocalist Brianna Thomas, who adds a vocalese solo to trombonist Trummy Young’s solo with Basie on Duke Ellington’s “In a Mellow Tone.” This outdoor gig at Lincoln Center is perfect for Eyal’s ensemble, as it includes a dance floor. GK

Photo Credit:  Nina Galicheva