Chicago Jazz Orchestra - More Amor - A Tribute To Wes Montgomery (2025) Hi-Res

Barely has the CD begun to spin when my ears send a signal of pure delight to my face. I must admit, I always approach “Tribute to…” albums with a degree of caution, as they are not always the most flattering endeavors. But here, the brilliance lies not only in the orchestra’s resplendent arrangements but also in the stellar performance of guitarist Bobby Broom, who graces us with one of the most luminous albums of recent times.

From Road Song to More, More, Amor, passing through Boss City, the Chicago Jazz Orchestra; the oldest continuously operating jazz ensemble in the city; pays tribute to one of the most distinctive and influential voices in jazz guitar. With the exceptional Bobby Broom at the forefront, this ten-track collection reaffirms the CJO’s well-earned reputation as “the best big band in the country,” as the late, great trumpeter and educator Clark Terry once proclaimed.

“Generations of talented musicians have honed their craft within the ensemble,” DownBeat noted. “If you have a taste for brassy big band music, you may already know—or should certainly discover; the Chicago Jazz Orchestra,” WTTW News remarked, praising its “40 years of innovative approaches to timeless music.” Of the CJO’s 2013 album Burstin’ Out, featuring vocalist Cyrille Aimée, Oregon Jazz Scene wrote: “The arrangements are impeccable, and the soloists tell a story with deep musicality.”

The spirit of Wes Montgomery is honored with the utmost reverence, yet without seeking mere imitation; this is where the album’s true beauty lies. It stands as both an original work and an exquisite reimagining of Montgomery’s compositions, elevated by masterfully crafted arrangements. The Chicago Jazz Orchestra is at its most jubilant, its brass section nothing short of dazzling in its precision and exuberance. There is a craftsmanship here that inspires awe, a level of artistry that commands admiration.

“My goal was to make the Chicago Jazz Orchestra the finest big band in Chicago,” says Jeff Lindberg, “one that could rival the great orchestras of the nation and the world.” As for Bobby Broom, his musical pedigree is formidable. A Chicago native with roots in New York, he has shared the stage with giants such as Sonny Rollins, Miles Davis, Art Blakey, and Stanley Turrentine.

“For me, this project is a dream,” Broom confesses. “I still remember gazing at those Wes Montgomery album covers while his music played in my New York apartment. To be invited to take part in this tribute and to feel worthy of the task; it’s almost surreal.”

The idea for More Amor: A Tribute to Wes Montgomery traces back to 2004, when Lindberg invited Broom to perform in a Montgomery tribute as part of the orchestra’s concert series. “Bobby possesses the perfect blend of virtuosity, artistic sensibility, and stage charisma,” Lindberg reflects. “He understands what captivates an audience, and the result is always musically and artistically exceptional.”

The tradition of great American jazz orchestras spans centuries, and it is a joy to see it endure. The Chicago Jazz Orchestra, with its striking modernity, could easily provoke envy. Here, jazz; and music itself; is envisioned with a vitality that empowers these musicians to reach their fullest potential. For Lindberg, More Amor is a resounding success: “I was blown away by the level of musicianship; especially the soloists and the rhythm section, featuring Dan Trudell (piano), Dennis Carroll (bass), and Kobie Watkins (drums). They laid down an incredible swing pulse that pushed everyone to surpass themselves.”

As for me, this is another album I consider essential; one that not only delights seasoned jazz lovers but also serves as a perfect gateway for newcomers to discover, appreciate, and revel in the joy of jazz.