Doug Haining and the
Twin Cities Seven Doug Haining and the
Twin Cities Seven
I Swing…Therefore I Am
2000 Doug Haining
SQ Issue: Fall 2001,
Volume 11, Issue 4
Twin Cities Seven is:
Doug
Haining – Alto, Clarinet; Tim Sullivan – Trumpet; John Boblett – Trombone;
Rick Carlson – Piano; Kent Saunders – Guitar; Steve Pikal – Bass; Brett
Forberg - Drums
“The Twin Cities Seven is THE PREMIER
Swing Band in the State of Minnesota. The Twin Cities Seven plays swing music in the grand
tradition of the Count Basie and Duke Ellington small bands. Arranged for septet with
saxophone (or clarinet), trumpet, trombone, guitar, piano, bass, and drums. Performed by
the Twin Cities finest musicians.” – Website Release.
Doug Haining’s debut CD contains some of the best jazz music you’ll find. The band’s laid back style invites you into the music itself. You become a part of what you hear; whether dancing or listening.
Each song has an easy style that eminates the comfort that these guys have with each other. The solos, all done masterfully, ease in and out of the music, never overdone nor too meek.
Dancers will like Big Shoe, Robbin’s Nest and Topsy along with some other tunes that are on the fringe of being in the pocket.
Listeners will really appreciate this CD. Each song, whether fast or slow, has intricities in the music that show the skills of the band. The blending of the music is exceptional, nobody seems to be out of place. I especially like the Ellington tunes, Discontented Blues and Black and Tan Fantasy. These tunes really capture the Ellington sound, experimenting with the instruments, creating what has become to be known as Ellington’s “Jungle Music” period. This is most apparent in the latter tune.
I suggest this CD as a keeper if you appreciate excellent jazz music. However, the dancer in you may find only limited gems to keep you on the dance floor. One other thing to keep in mind is that several of the songs head into the 6 to 9 minute length - not always a good thing when you are on the dance floor.