What started as a little big band from Boston that played original arrangements of Charles Mingus, Miles Davis, and Thelonious Monk compositions has grown exponentially. Led by drummer George Schuller, son of the renowned Gunther Schuller, OTB is now more of a reflection of the downtown New York scene. They continue to perform provocative charts of well-known jazz pieces, but incorporate many of the original compositions of their rotating group members; among recent participants are Andy Laster, Matt Darriau, Dave Ballou, Chris Speed, Dave Douglas, and Andrew D'angelo. The group also has included folk melodies and rhythms from Africa, Brazil, and the Balkan countries into their repertoire, to create unique improvisational opportunities and a push-the-envelope world music stance that is unlike any other ensemble. They derived their name from the Mingus evergreen "Orange (Was the Color of Her Dress, ) Then (Silk) Blue." ~ Michael G.
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