The Hot House Big Band, over the course of two evenings last January, recorded
their début album ‘Wind Machine’ live at Beechpark Studios, Dublin.
The seventeen-piece band, led by Dublin saxophonist and clarinettist Mark Wilde,
features some of Ireland’s finest jazz musicians and vocalists.
Of the album, band leader Mark Wilde says “The songs that we recorded are some of
our favourites from the bandstand. But a lot is happening now in the world of big
band music and we have also chosen them to appeal to the appetite of the new
audience for these exciting developments; at the same time, our intention is not to
loose or dilute the style and pizzazz beloved of traditional big band fans.”
“Probably the best band I’ve heard in the last 20 years!”
Buddy Greco, Legendary pianist/singer and original member of Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack.
The band pushes the boundaries of the big band genre with their use of complex
harmonies and tight interactions. Frequently fast-paced, their music has a
particularly hot and exciting feel. Special care has been taken with the beautiful and
multi-faceted arrangements so that the band effectively reproduces the classic Big
Band sound. The album includes traditional and contemporary arrangements by
Sammy Nestico, Bill Byers and Les Hooper as well as three specially commissioned
arrangements by local maestros Dave Gold and Brendan Breslin and by Australian
arranger, Matt Amy.
“Great job! Very Impressive!!”
Les Hooper, 7 time Grammy nominated, Emmy and Clio award winning LA composer.
Although the band features a stellar line up of musicians on the Dublin scene,
including Big Jim Farrelly, Derek ‘Doc’ O’Connor and Danny Healy, the music is not
solos driven. “What we want is to generate that massive Big Band sound, we want
to keep the ensemble playing to the fore” says Mark. That having been said, if its
solos you want, this band offers plenty of high-wire excitement from the best Ireland
has to give. For the vocal numbers, the band is joined by John Graham, Sinead
Conway and Charles Cavanagh.
“The best band in Dublin right now.”
Shay Healy, Irish songwriter, broadcaster and journalist.
The dedication of the band members to achieving the highest standard of
musicianship is enhanced by their adventurous approach. Their inclusion of up-andcoming
best-around-town young talent combines with the cream of experienced jazz
musicians from Ireland and far beyond which ensures The Hothouse Big Band’s
rightful claim to the title of Ireland’s most exciting Big Band. Any Monday night
(except Bank Holidays) in The Mercantile in Dublin, you can experience an
adventurous and distinctive band which promises that no two gigs are ever the same
and find yourself at the centre of a new Jazz revolution.
cdbaby
