The Paul Keller Orchestra’s Thank You Notes is a spirited celebration of contemporary big band writing built around the music of composer Gregg Hill, whose originals blend classic swing traditions with fresh melodic ideas and modern harmonic touches. Rather than revisiting familiar standards, the album presents an all-original program composed primarily by Hill, with Paul […]
The Paul Keller Orchestra’s Thank You Notes is a spirited celebration of contemporary big band writing built around the music of composer Gregg Hill, whose originals blend classic swing traditions with fresh melodic ideas and modern harmonic touches. Rather than revisiting familiar standards, the album presents an all-original program composed primarily by Hill, with Paul Keller sharing co-composer credit on several vocal selections and Sarah D’Angelo contributing the lyrics. Under bassist, arranger and bandleader Paul Keller’s direction, the orchestra delivers the music with precision, warmth and an unmistakable sense of joy, while vocalist and clarinetist Sarah D’Angelo adds a distinctive vocal presence alongside instrumental contributions from pianist Adam Mosley, vibraphonist Cary Kocher and drummer Pete Siers. The impressive horn section, including Keith Kaminski on alto and soprano saxophone, Christopher Tabaczynski and Steve Wood on tenor saxophone, James Hughes on alto saxophone, Mark Kieme on baritone saxophone, Paul Finkbeiner and Lucas Stickley on trumpet, and Terry Kimura and Chris Smith on trombone, brings depth, color and momentum to Hill’s imaginative charts. Together, the ensemble balances polished ensemble work with expressive solo moments, resulting in a recording that honors the enduring vitality of the big band tradition while presenting a collection of engaging new compositions that feel both timeless and unmistakably contemporary.
