MONTREAL, July 4, 2025 – The jazz world welcomes a new landmark with the release of San Francisco 1948, the latest album by the Steve Rosenbloom Big Band. This expansive, meticulously crafted project reaffirms Rosenbloom’s status as a composer and arranger – with assistance from Chris Smith and Michael Johncsik) who channels the vibrant spirit of the big band tradition while infusing it with contemporary freshness and thoughtful nuance.
A native of Montreal and a committed voice in Canadian jazz, Steve Rosenbloom has long been recognized for his compositional depth and dedication to the big band idiom. With San Francisco 1948, he assembles a stellar 16-piece ensemble to deliver a record that is as much a celebration of history as it is a bold statement of artistic vitality.
The album’s title track, composed by Rosenbloom himself, sets the tone with a dynamic range of moods, transporting listeners to the golden era of big band jazz while highlighting modern sensibilities. The intricate arrangements blend bold brass voicings with intricate reed textures, showcasing Rosenbloom’s keen understanding of orchestration and ensemble interplay.
Montreal’s finest jazz musicians
Integral to the project’s success are the contributions of some of Montreal’s finest jazz musicians: Jules Payette commands the lead alto and flute, Allison Burik delivers warm tones on alto sax and bass clarinet, while Steve Rosenbloom himself rounds out the alto section with his signature sound. The tenor sax section is richly textured by Michael Johancsik and Alex Francoeur, who also lend clarinet colors, and the baritone sax and clarinet duties are expertly handled by Benjamin Deschamps.
The trumpet section shines with the bright, assertive tones of Lex French, Andy King, Benjamin Cordeau, and Cameron Milligan, each bringing their own voice to the collective power of the brass. The trombone section, anchored by Mathieu Van Vilet, Thomas Morelli-Bernard, Taylor Donaldson, and Chris Smith, adds both warmth and punch, weaving seamlessly into the fabric of the band.
On rhythm, pianist Eric Harding provides the harmonic foundation, supported by Mike De Masi’s steady bass lines and the responsive, dynamic drumming of Jim Doxas. Together, they form the heartbeat of the ensemble, driving the music with subtlety and swing.
The making of San Francisco 1948 reflects Rosenbloom’s decades-long journey in composition and arranging, a process rooted in mentorship and collaboration. From early guidance by Gerry Danovitch, through partnerships with arrangers like Christopher Smith, Michael Johancsik, and Alex Francoeur, Rosenbloom has continually refined his craft. The album includes arrangements by both Smith and Johancsik, blending classic and contemporary big band sensibilities.
Recorded in May 2024, the album captures the band’s vibrant energy and precision, resulting in a recording experience that resonates with authenticity and passion. The careful mix and master enhance the detailed arrangements, inviting listeners into a sonic landscape rich with color and emotion.
San Francisco 1948 is a testament to Rosenbloom’s commitment to sustaining and evolving the big band tradition. It embodies the grandeur, complexity, and emotional depth that define the genre, offering a listening experience that appeals to seasoned jazz aficionados and new audiences alike.
This album marks a significant chapter for Rosenbloom and the Montreal jazz scene, highlighting the city’s wealth of talent and the continuing relevance of large ensemble jazz in the 21st century.
Listeners can experience San Francisco 1948 across all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music, beginning May 30, 2025.
Band Members:
Jules Payette (Lead Alto, Flute), Allison Burik (Alto, Bass Clarinet), Steve Rosenbloom (Alto Sax), Michael Johancsik (Tenor Sax, Clarinet), Alex Francoeur (Tenor Sax, Clarinet), Benjamin Deschamps (Baritone Sax, Clarinet), Lex French (Trumpet), Andy King (Trumpet), Benjamin Cordeau (Trumpet), Cameron Milligan (Trumpet), Mathieu Van Vilet (Trombone), Thomas Morelli-Bernard (Trombone), Taylor Donaldson (Trombone), Chris Smith (Trombone), Eric Harding (Piano), Mike De Masi (Bass), Jim Doxas (Drums).
submitted by Eric Alper
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