Hit The Ground Running – 2010

Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band

A showcase for altoist Eric Marienthal

Arranger-composer-keyboardist (and occasional saxophonist) Gordon Goodwin has been leading his 18-piece Big Phat Band since 1999.

One of the most popular jazz orchestras of recent times, the Big Phat Band plays on an occasional basis in Southern California where Goodwin also writes for films and the studios.

The high-powered and funky “Hit The Ground Running” features altoist Eric Marienthal (who became famous for his playing with Chick Corea’s Elektric Band but has been a member of Goodwin’s orchestra since it began) and also has some assertive drumming from Bernie Dresel.

This energetic performance was performed at Disneyland.

-Scott Yanow