(MCG Jazz)

Saxophonist, composer and arranger Bob Mintzer changes things up again for the 20th recording of his big band unit. Get Up! takes an R&B turn, featuring tunes inspired by the music the New Rochelle native grew up hearing on radio. In addition to five of Mintzer’s own pieces, the project features the compositions made famous by The Isley Brothers, Sam and Dave and Sly &The Family Stone, among others. Powering Mintzer grooving arrangements, performed in front of a live audience at Pittsburgh’s Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, is an all-star band of players including alto saxophonist Bob Sheppard, tenor saxman Bob Malach, baritone saxophonist Roger Rosenberg, trumpeters John Daversa and Scott Wendholt, trombonists Andy Hunter, Michael Davis and Keith O’Quinn. Ray Obiedo sits in on guitar, with Will Lee on bass and Mintzer’s Yellowjackets bandmates drummer Will Kennedy and pianist Russell Ferrante joining the ensemble as well. A truly outstanding effort by the bandleader and all involved.