SC – Luis tell us about the new release “Twilight”
LB - First and foremost, I am very proud and honored to work with these amazing musicians.
Always looking for contrast, I felt a need for a different approach from our previous recording, "I Talking Now", which were my original compositions. The collective virtuosity of John, Ivan, Bruce and Andy inspired me to seek a more cohesive and distinct sound as an ensemble. The decision to ask each member to contribute an original composition for the recording was as natural as obvious to me. I feel it allows us the opportunity to share each other's vision of how we see and feel music. The challenge was, as is always, to find common ground and understanding, have fun, take chances and achieve creative music collectively at a high level.
SC - As a composer Luis is there any one thing that inspires you most to compose?
LB - There is no one source of inspiration that drives my overall approach towards composition. Certainly, the muse is never too far away or removed. At times I'm inspired by memories of people in my life or experiences I've had. At times, a more methodical or practical approach draws out melodies, harmonic progressions or form. Most recently, having the same personnel in the group inspires me to write with them in mind. But first and foremost, having these amazing musicians is knowing I have no limitations.
SC - How do you maintain the patience and persistence that is required in today’s crowded jazz recording world?
LB - I was fortunate to have been around much older players when I was young and just starting out. A common topic of conversation was the importance of longevity. Our lives are in constant process of development. Music, for those of us that have chosen this path, is our forum in which to express ourselves. Everybody has something to say and certainly, there's plenty of ability and talent out there, but when you sit back and listen to Frank Wess for example, you quickly realize there's no substitute for experience. He once told me, "It's not how fast you run the race, it's how well you do it." Longevity is key!
SC - Tell us about the title of the recording.. “Twilight”– How did that choice come about?
LB - Twilight is a direct result of having to find balance and explore subtleties within "our" music, as a band. Our previous CD, "I Talking Now" was an all out burst. As a soloist, I've always strived to push the boundaries of dynamics, it's what keeps the performers and listeners alike, interested and engaged. I take that same approach when composing/arranging music, as well producing a recording.
SC - A question I have been asking all jazz artists in this column…. Right now there are two schools of thought when it comes to the question “What is the current state of Jazz” Some believe is very healthy and some believe its worse than ever.. What is your take on this question and what are some of your current views of Jazz music today.
LB - I believe now is a good time for musicians with creative minds looking to produce and perform creative music. I have the fortune of being on the faculty at Manhattan School of Music as well as New England Conservatory of Music. I am constantly surprised at the level of musicianship from these young students. As long as Jazz is a music that represents growth and forward thinking, I believe its presence will firmly continue.
SC - As far as influences on the trombone who would you say influenced you the most?
LB - When I was a youngster in 8th grade at Eagle Rock Jr/Sr High School, my band director, John Rinaldo gave me a cassette of Carl Fontana playing Emily. I was immediately hooked. Shortly thereafter, he gave me another recording of Frank Rosolino, which I loved as much. It's the combination of the smooth and punchy that best explains my approach towards improvising on the trombone.
SC - What do you have planned for the future on the writing and recording side?
LB - I've made a habit of sitting at the piano on a regular basis as part of my practice routine. I either experiment with textures or explore ways to bring life to a melody I've been hearing. In the meantime, I'm focused on performing the recorded music with the quintet. Without a doubt, the more we perform and get to know ourselves as a group, the more it will influence my writing and be reflected in the overall sound. If all goes as planned, expect to see our next release in Spring 2012.
SC - Luis if you had one artist you could record with - who would it be?
LB - I've always been attracted to trumpet players and find myself interested in the music of Enrico Rava, as of late. Spending time performing and recording with such a great master would be an incredible learning experience.
For more information on Luis Bonilla go to: www.trombonilla.com
