Homecoming

2017 release. For Homecoming, there was only one guideline: All compositions had to be by Vince Mendoza. The second condition was set by the Vince himself: He wanted to use only newly written pieces and it goes without saying they were made to measure for the WDR Big Band. The band appreciated his high level of commitment. The recording shows, that permanently employed musicians of a broadcasting house orchestra, working in a well-organized setting, are not necessarily just finishing a project but can be inspired and at ease when performing. There is no hint of this tiring theme/solo/solo/solo/theme-pattern as Vince Mendoza is a true master of the organic form and the musical arc, a master of densely interwoven musical thoughts. The sixto nine minutes long compositions are complex and intensive without being excessive on the contrary: the music breathes.