Record Review: Chuck Copenace Group – EP 1

Chuck Copenace Group
EP 1
Genre: Jazz
Rating B

Ojibway Jazz trumpeter Chuck Copenace’s latest release, EP 1, showcases both his enthusiasm for jazz and the deep respect he has for his culture. His experience playing with a the virtual who’s who of Winnipeg bands including funk/jazz innovators Moses Mayes, roots act Nathan, and rockers Indian City, has widened his musical vista and you can hear those influences across these four tracks.

“ARVO” is driven by drummer Brendan Kinley and rooted in Ashley Au’s bass work. Chuck is free to take flight guiding us through the melody handing solos off to guitarist Victor Lopez and Alto Sax player Eric Bachmann before his powerful, dynamic trumpet brings us back.

“Appetite” opens with a shared funky dual-horn line leading into Chuck’s inspired brassy lead. A round and mellow alto sax follows. Chuck’s second departure is more introspective, as we are guided into a clever electric guitar bridge and finally back to the shared two-horn melody to bring us home.

“Front” feels like the tune most influenced by Chuck’s previous band’s works. His trumpet tone is glorious, nuanced and detailed as would be expected from someone with this much musical experience.

I do like the idea of capturing original indigenous melodies and transforming them into jazz idiom. This is an excellent first recording, which I hope leads to more daring work as Chuck only seems to scratching at the surface of where he can take us.

—

Grab a copy of EP 1  at  ChuckCopenace.com.