Yellowjackets In Concert

Yellowjackets' self released CD "Mint Jam" is a Live Recording, double CD containing eight new original Yellowjackets compositions, and updated arrangements of the Yellowjacket classics: "Run Fer Your Life," "Evening News," "Tortoise and the Hare," and "Statue of Liberty." Recorded live at "The Mint" in Los Angeles, Yellowjackets members feel this recording has captured the essence of a live Yellowjackets concert. Mint Jam was a 2003 Grammy Nominee for "Best Contemporary Jazz Album".

Much of Mirage A Trois is similar to the debut album, but most notable is "Claire's Song", which would anticipate the future Yellowjackets with its sequencer and rhythmic elements. Ditto "Goin' Home", a slower, reflective tune and a concert favorite. "Nimbus" also predates the more complex compositions the group would create on later albums, expanding beyond the catch-all "fusion" genre.

The Manchester Craftsman's Guild in Pittsburgh offers another rousing live concert date in this varied program led by the eclectic saxophonist who is best known as one of the Yellowjackets – but whose early résumé also boasts everyone from Tito Puente to Thad Jones and the Mel Lewis Big Band. A dash here and a dollop there of each of these influences make this a varied date whose appeal extends beyond big-band fans and embraces those who love bebop, a touch of the avant-garde, the progressive spirit of the Yellowjackets (most notably Russell Ferrante, who contributes stunning percussive solos on pieces like the crazed, polyrhythmic "Mofongo"), and the great contemporary vocalist Kurt Elling.

Bob Mintzer is a jazz saxophonist, composer, arranger, and big band leader based in Los Angeles, California. Bob Mintzer, born January 27, 1953 and a native of New Rochelle, New York is what's known as a triple threat musician. He is equally active in the areas of performance, composing/arranging, and music education. While touring with the Yellowjackets or his own quartet, or big band, Bob is busy writing music for big band, various small bands, saxophone quartets, orchestral and concert band music.