Everyone seems to want comparisons. But it would be unfair and inaccurate to
compare Russ Reinberg too closely to any other jazz clarinetist. His sound
and style are unique. While his tone and training are classical, his playing
is unadulterated, mainstream jazz. He is as comfortable with blues and
ballads as with swinging up tempo tunes.
Russ has performed at Carnegie Hall, as a guest on numerous television shows
including the Tonight Show, at concerts and jazz festivals, and with many
top jazz musicians (including the Concord Jazz All Stars: Tenor saxophonist
Scott Hamilton, pianist Dave McKenna, and drummer Jake Hanna). Even so, Ken
Borgers, for years the program director at one of the premier jazz radio
stations in the world, KKJZ, once joked that Russ is "the best kept secret
in jazz". We hope this audio CD will change that. If you like jazz clarinet,
you will love this album.
More About Russ Reinberg
Commercial reviews:
"Reinberg is a world-class player, and it's a shame we've not heard more from him. [He] has marshaled a splendid rhythm section-guitarist Larry Koonse obviates the need for a piano-and together they...share most of the solo space, and each one is a pleasure to hear."-Jack Bowers, All About Jazz
"Inspired by but not overly derivative of Benny Goodman, Reinberg sounds both charming and delightful throughout.... Reinberg, who is exuberant in spots, not only successfully revives a variety of superior swing standards but contributes four originals that deserve to become standards themselves, particularly "Walking" and the sensitive "Never Enough." This swinging set is a gem, highly recommended."-Scott Yanow
"This quartet really swings. "Junior" and "Limehouse Blues" are examples that kept our foot patting the floor. The delicate tones of the instruments are allowed to blossom, especially the guitar and clarinet. Good sound along with well paced rhythms make Blue Scarlett shine on the straight ahead jazz set."-D. Oscar Groomes, O's Place Jazz Newsletter
"This CD is like a tender, caring hug to the ears and senses.".-Veronica Timpanelli, JazzReview.com
What impressed us right away with Russ Reinberg's album was the warm tone of his clarinet and the exceptional recording quality. Backed by an ace trio, he glides through this exquisitely played set of straight-ahead jazz standards and some gorgeous originals. We can't help but say how pleasant, fresh and wonderful this album is.
MUSIC DIRECT
www.amusicdirect.com
Russ Reinberg, a fine jazz clarinetist, who has labored under the label of "best kept secret" for too long, [has released a] CD, Blue Scarlett.... The sound is smooth and mellow but no way is it "smooth jazz", just good jazz with a tempo balance throughout the CD. When you talk about Russ Reinberg's playing, think in terms of clarinetist Eddie Daniels. His playing is on that level and straight ahead and that, combined with the always marvelous work of Koonse, Brinker, and Stone, make this a CD not to be missed.
Bob Agnew
L.A. JAZZ SCENE, NOVEMBER 2004
From customers:
I just love your new CD!!! We listen to it over and over!! I am sooooooo glad that George bought one from you!! Make more!!!!!!! Good job!!!!
Jean and George Waterman
Ventura, CA
Thanks for the CD, I am enjoying it a lot (playing now). The classic material is good, but your own compositions really shine. and I am looking forward to your next one.
Bill Moore
Via the Internet
Russ Reinberg plays with a beautiful, touching tone, very musical, interesting and in his very own individual style. Straight to the heart, not a note too much. With a heck of a rhythm section, it really swings from start to finish. Beautiful choice of songs, and nice originals. Recording engineer Ben Maas did a great job; the recording quality is in one word, superb! I find myself listening to this CD over and over again!
Aad Overeem
Via the Internet
