A Field of You

Pianist Rob Bargad has produced and released a fine CD of his Reunion 7tet, a band made up of superb and stellar musicians, most of whom have been close friends for over 30 years. Drummer Jason Brown is the freshest member of the crew, boasting a mere 18 years association with the others. Rob and Dave Schumacher go back to their New Trier High School days. Dave graduated 2 years ahead of Rob, but the two met at an alumni Jazz concert where Dave suggested that Rob come visit Rutgers University, where Dave was attending the Livingston College Jazz program. The faculty there included Kenny Barron, Paul Jeffrey, Larry Ridley, Ted Dunbar and Michael Carvin. Rob and Dave took off the next day, driving from Chicago to New Jersey, and the rest is history. Other distinguished Livingston College Jazz alumni include Terence Blanchard, Ralph Peterson, Steve Nelson and Jerry Weldon. Rob, Dave, Jerry, Joe Magnarelli and Daniel Sadownick played together in the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. Rob and Jason often accompanied Jerry Weldon at his regular Wednesday night at Showman's in Harlem. Mike Karn is one of the most admired and requested bassists on the scene today. Mike and Daniel rounded out Rob's trio regularly at the Knickerbocker in Greenwich Village. Over the years, all 7 members have been in steady demand as sidemen with the likes of Nat Adderley, Harry Connick Jr., Ray Barretto, Art Blakey, Joey DeFrancesco, MeShell NdegeOcello, Ray Charles, Jack McDuff and even Taylor Swift! Reunion 7tet brings all that experience as well as lots of love and mutual respect together to produce one of the hardest swinging bands in the business. The presentation here of 7 originals and one beautiful standard is Jazz played as it should be played.