Ted Nash – The Mancini Project

A collection of Henry Mancini compositions performed by the son and nephew of two of Mancini’s long-time players seems at first glance to be an open invitation to sentimentalism. Such is definitely not the case with this tonal offering from saxophonist Ted Nash.

In the hands of the Nash quartet the tried and true becomes new again. Listeners are also introduced to several unfamiliar pieces of music including “Something For Nash” composed by Mancini for Ted’s father trombonist Dick Nash.

The proceedings could have slid into melancholy with the inclusion of such themes as “Solider In The Rain” and “Two For The Road.” However, Nash has looked at them with fresh eyes so we can listen to the tunes with fresh ears.

Even before I read the liner notes I knew this recording featured a rock-solid rhythm section. Thus I was not surprised to see that the legendary Rufus Reid was on the bass and the highly talented Matt Wilson was at the drums. Pianist Frank Kimbrough provides plenty of melodic filling and some tasty solos. In all, a well-rounded group with something to say musically.

A confession here: the first record album I ever owned was the Henry Mancini soundtrack to the television show “Mr. Lucky.” Over the years my collection included an uncountable number of Mancini albums. In recent years I’ve drifted away from such music. “The Mancini Project” makes me want to go back and dig out those old albums. Now, if I could only find a turntable on which to play them!