Review: The Pugilist ~ Bernie Dresel

I wasn’t sure where this album was going when I looked at the cover art. It took me to the boxing rings before they became Vegas events, reminiscent of the radio era of my parents with Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson and Jack Dempsey. This is what big band should sound like. Bernie has brought the heat to this aptly titled recording. He is truly a pugilist as each song makes you feel the punch and excitement of the music. Listening I envisioned people pouring into the arena dressed to kill with all the swagger and sway that a championship fight brings. He definitely does not disappoint with his arrangements of classic tunes and new compositions. Closing out with a vocal is a unique approach and definitely wasn’t expected, but nicely done. It’s a refreshing approach to big band!

carl anthony | notorious jazz | january 10, 2022

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