The Cryogenic Renaissance Orchestra—JAZZ! March 1999

Boston trumpeter-composer-arranger-big band leader Greg Hopkins will showcase his new jazz nonet at Scullers jazz club, at the doubletree hotel on Storrow drive on Tuesday, April 6th at 8 and 10 pm

This innovative ensemble , which sometimes goes by the name “the Cryogenic Renaissance Orchestra”, is inspired by the famous Miles Davis birth of the cool band. The repertoire features a few of the original gems, including “Moondreams”, “Israel”, and “Boplicity” from the 1949-1950 sessions. In addition, many new compositions by Greg Hopkins, inspired by, but not necessarily in the style of the original miles group will be performed.

One of the pieces written especially for this ensemble is “the cryogenic renaissance suite” by Greg Hopkins. The extended composition explores the textural and technical parameters of the ensemble. The seven-part thirty minute suite develops into one of the most ambitious forays in this genre. Other titles include “Mystic Valley”, “Okalvongo”, Duke Ellington’s “such sweet thunder”, and McCoy Tyner’s “Mode for John”.

Featured in the band are special west coast guests Sam Pilafian on tuba; Chuck Marohnic on piano; Dominic Moio on drums. Also featured are Boston’s own Jeff Galindo, trombone; Shannon Leclaire, alto sax; Marc Phaneuf, baritone sax; Ken Pope, french horn; Jim Stinnett, bass; and Greg Hopkins, trumpet and flugelhorn.

The group’s new CD entitled “Jazz”, after the Miles Davis painting of the same name which dons the cover, will be released in early may by summit records. Come and join us for the CD release party at Scullers Jazz Club on Tuesday night, April 6th, with sets at 8 and 10pm.