Outside of New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, there are few areas, if any, that have the depth and breadth of talent to support a major repertory orchestra. And perhaps even with these, the major markets might have a problem putting together a permanently standing aggregation which meets the definition of repertory in the manner that the rotating 17-member has done since their inception in 1995. According to , repertory refers to "a company that presents several different plays, , or [musical] pieces usually alternatively in the course of a season." This is precisely what is presented on this CD. There are pieces played and/or written by such giants as , , and played by the orchestra live from 1997 though 2001. But the favorites are and , who are represented by four items. Not only are these two favored, but the concept that the orchestra is the instrument developed by is clearly the preference of the orchestra's co-directors, . But like 's bands, there is plenty of room for solos. And what a crew to pick from. There's the veteran saxman , top-ranked pianist , multi-virtuoso , alto sax player on trombone, and on trumpet. The band is driven by on drums and they show no mercy on such cuts as Most of these players have CDs of their own on the market. The group not only can , but oozes sophistication and elegance on which features a bluesy clarinet by . All around good stuff; this CD is highly recommended. ~ Dave Nathan