Cast of Cats

by Scott Yanow This CD is different than it appears at first glance. Although Cast of Cats is listed as being by the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, in reality the 13 selections, all originals by Marsalis, feature one musician apiece with backing by pianist Bill Charlap, bassist Carlos Henríquez, and drummer Herlin Riley. In other words, these are a series of quartet performances. Trumpeter Marsalis is only heard on the opening "Raise Yo' Heads," a fairly simple swing piece with a New Orleans feel. In addition there is one feature apiece for baritone saxophonist Joe Temperly, trumpeter Ryan Kisor, tenor saxophonist Walter Blanding, pianist Charlap, trombonist Andre Hayward, Ted Nash (tenor, alto, and flute), trombonist Ronald Weztray, altoist Wess Anderson, bassist Henríquez, trombonist Vincent Gardner, trumpeter Marcus Printup, and Victor Goines on tenor. The music ranges from advanced swing, to quirky hard bop originals and moody ballads. It is doubtful if any of Marsalis' originals will become standards in the future, since none of the melodies are particularly memorable although the musicians play well enough, mostly without showing a great deal of individuality. Available from the Brooks Brothers clothing chain, Cast of Cats is listenable although it falls far short of being essential.