Primary Instrument: Band/orchestra
Jazz has evolved into multiple styles and camps--some today disavowing the very name. Philadelphia sextet Exuberance respectfully embraces the term, its proud history, its restless energy, and its focus on the basics of melody, harmony, rhythm and improvisation. Tuneful and accessible without being square, the group provides a joyful exploration of the genre we know and love as jazz. This is music to be enjoyed, perhaps with your favorite cocktail in hand.
If you want to experience an exemplary live performance, Exuberance consists of a literal “who’s who” in the Philadelphia jazz scene, comprised of percussionist Doc Gibbs (Emeril Live), the venerable and ubiquitous bassist Mike Boone, whirlwind vibraphonist Hideo Morris, the propulsive, inventive drummer Joe Truglio, and the youthful, impressive (dare we say exuberant) Mike Cemprola on saxophones and clarinet.
And the tunes? Composer, band leader, and pianist Matt Yaple values the communicative aspect of his work. The music is expressive, deliberate, yet pleasant. Tonal, but with chromatic passages. Flowing, but with turns of irregular meter and occasional Latin grooves. These tunes score an engaging soundtrack for a night out. Yaple and band provide an inviting and familial sense of community with their music. This is aural comfort food, with just enough class to inspire you to put on your dress shoes and to smile at the stranger next to you.
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