Octet

This CD embodies what many have called “The Toronto Sound.” This is not a conscious effort, although Toronto jazz composers, arrangers and performers have been a part of an unconscious musical movement akin to the group of 7 painters. This goes back further than my memory, but Dave Young was on the ground floor with Phil Nimmons, Rob McConnell, Rick Wilkins and Ron Collier, all pillars of the local and national jazz consciousness.

The Toronto sound is complicated, but generally relies on a few crucial ingredients; exciting, well crafted and uniquely voiced arrangements, a distinctly Canadian musical sensibility, impeccable tuning, flawless execution and world-class solos.

Through the years, players like Guido Basso, Moe Koffman, Arnie Cycoski, Don Thompson, Eugene Amaro and Ian McDougal helped define the sound of their generation and beyond. I have had the good fortune to have worked closely with all of these musicians including DYTP 8 charter members and Toronto jazz legends, Gary Williamson, Terry Clarke and of course Dave Young. The horn players in this group are all from a younger generation; we remain honoured to carry the torch of a long-standing Toronto tradition.