All In was named among the Best CDs of 2007 by JazzImprov magazine and the Montreal Gazette and among WBGO's Plays of the Month from December 2007 through April 2008. All In had an amazing 13-week run on the JazzWeek chart, which tracks national radio airplay, from January into May, peaking at number 4 the week of March 10. Here are links to and excerpts from selected reviews:
“All those chosen for inclusion … speak the same language: contemporary, vibrant, ‘contributing to the evolution of jazz,’ and they swing with erudition.”
Jazz Times, Harvey Siders, January/February 2008
"hot soloing and tight arranging.... a balanced performance that excels." All About Jazz (print version), Jim Santella, January 2008
All About Jazz, Big Band Caravan, Jack Bowers, October 17, 2007
“inspires and enlightens without pretense or condescension….superlative charts, stellar soloists …. a dynamic and warmly recommended debut by a world-class orchestra.”
The Toronto Star, Ashante Infantry (rated 3/4 stars)
“an expertly woven and thrilling collection”
All About Jazz, Dr. Judith Schlesinger, October 12, 2007
“crackling-good,…a corker…. The band is first-rate, the solos world-class, the arrangements fresh and imaginative. This group is so exceptional that it’s beginning to reverse the usual commute: instead of suburbanites trekking southward to seek jazz in the Apple, urbanites are venturing north to hear the WJO.”
Montreal Mirror, Len Dobbin, August 30, 2007 (rated 9.5/10)
“loaded with top-notch soloists…. Much to offer for the big-band fan.”
Midwest Record, Chris Spector, Sept 29, 2007
“Keeping big band music alive in fine style…. killer chops on parade.”
The Irish Times, Ray Comiskey, October 19, 2007, (rated 4/5 stars)
“a hugely impressive, swinging unit”
Palo Alto Daily News, Oct 12, 2007
“a real crowd-pleaser,” “a winner”
David Adler’s blog
“Hot, super-professional big band charts”
O's Place Jazz Newsletter, D. Oscar Groomes (rated 4/4)
“The brass is sweet, mellow and packed with power when called on and the rhythm section never misses a beat. This is a strong performance.”
