What Is Jim Rotondi Dark Blue

The Idaho-born trumpeter Jim Rotondi is now based in Graz, Austria, as the opening track off of his new album Dark Blue can attest. In fact, “In Graz” is a good summary of Rotondi’s overall sound on this record: it’s complex and urbane post-bop. Rotondi’s trumpet steers his four bandmates (Joe Locke on vibraphone, David Hazeltine on piano, David Wong on bass, and Carl Allen on drums) through complex compositions, seven of which are his own band’s. Rotondi’s Dark Blue fits its title and album art; this album is organic and cool, almost as if it was recorded right in a club somewhere in Europe.

Although Dark Blue sometimes feels a little exhausted for ideas, it’s a satisfying enough listen. The opener “In Graz” is one of Rotondi’s best offerings, with a smart opening riff and excellent solos. The rhythm section is excellent behind said solos: Allen’s hi hats and Wong’s springy bass is a foundation with a surprising depth. Although Rotondi ensures that the tempo isn’t always the brisk walk of “In Graz”, the moments when he does let the tempo fly freely are often satisfying. Closer “Going to the Sun” is like this, with another fantastic opening riff and an excellent final minute, where
Rotondi’s trumpet closes the record to the sound of relaxing chimes, hi hats, and octaves on the bass.

The moments where Rotondi slows things down are sometimes very rewarding, but they are often the source of Dark Blue’s worst qualities. The title track is another highlight; Rotondi’s trumpet is crystal clear on top of a sleepy drum arrangement, and Hazeltine’s solo near the end is nothing short of fantastic.

Unfortunately, the mellifluous vibe of “Dark Blue” doesn’t resurface throughout this record - although Rotondi does his best, it’s hard to reach such a state of zen on every track.
None of the music on Dark Blue is necessarily bad; it tends to drag at times, however. “Our Day Will Come” feels somewhat meaningless; even more painfully, “Bc” and “Biru Kirusai”, two of the opening songs that set the record into motion, don’t grab your attention like “In Graz” does. The middle portion of “Dark Blue” tends to be the most satisfying; against all odds, Rotondi’s cover of the Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory standard “Pure Imagination” is lovely, not adhering to the original to religiously. Another notable track is “Highline”, with Hazeltine delivering some more excellent piano
work.

Overall, Dark Blue is a comfortable listen. If you’ve got any upcoming sophisticated parties that need a soundtrack, don’t hesitate in putting this on. Rotondi and his band have excellent chemistry, and there are no clear clunkers on this record. However, Dark Blue fades a little when subjected to more up close listening; although Rotondi reaches the stars at points, this album fails to overly impress.