Boss Brass Again!

AMG Review of Boss Brass Again!

Ken Dryden
All Music Guide

Rob McConnell & the Boss Brass made a second album for the direct-to-disc Umbrella label, a two-LP set that features the band at the top of its game. Aside from Ian McDougall's Pellet Suite, all of the arrangements are by the leader. The allads are especially noteworthy, particularly the subdued, lush setting of "I Hear a Rhapsody" and "My Ship." They have plenty of op chops as well, featuring trumpeter Sam Noto and alto saxophonist Moe Kaufman in "Confirmation." The occasional use of electric piano proves to be distracting, but aside from that annoyance, the ensembles, soloists, and rhythm are first-rate. The sound achieved by the engineer on this limited-edition title is phenomenal. This set was later briefly available as two separate Pausa LPs, but the original direct-to-disc album will have superior sound compared to the reissue.