Title: MSU Jazz Trombones: Spartan Strong
Artist: Michael Dease
Label: Origin Records
Product Type: COMPACT DISCS
UPC: 805558294129
Genre: Jazz
Release Date: 2026-01-30
Number of Discs: 1

Much in the way Michael Dease has defined the state-of-the-art for jazz trombone over the last two decades, his effectiveness in shaping the next generation of players also requires inspired superlatives. A 2025 Guggenheim Fellow, and Distinguished Professor in Rodney Whitaker’s renowned Jazz Department at Michigan State University, Dease has been central to fostering MSU’s reputation as a thriving center of creative musical development. “Spartan Strong,” while possibly implying a football cheer, in this case reflects the powerful musical instincts, exhilarating orchestrations, and uninhibited improvisational prowess of these 18 members of his teaching studio. Along with the rhythm section of Xavier Davis, Jared Beckstead-Craan, and Keith Hall, the ensemble tackles arrangements of several originals, and old & new standards, while stylistically spanning Afro-Cuban grooves, lush trombone choir passages, and unabashed swing. The future, as witnessed here, is in fine hands. “Michael Dease is one of the Giants of the trombone. I was very fortunate to have played with JJ Johnson, Curtis Fuller, Slide Hampton, Al Grey, the other Giants of that instrument.” – Jimmy Heath, NEA Jazz Master

Tracks:
1.1 [5:49] Huesos Con Clave
1.2 [3:51] Rememberance
1.3 [4:32] Evidence
1.4 [7:01] Frame for the Blues
1.5 [6:12] Some Skunk Funk
1.6 [6:02] It Could Happen to You
1.7 [6:58] The Nearness of You
1.8 [5:31] Song of Those Who Seek
1.9 [3:57] ‘Round Midnight
1.10 [5:19] Groove Blues
1.11 [4:36] Alfitude
1.12 [6:18] Blues After Dark
1.13 [4:46] Spartan Strong
1.14 [5:24] Blues in the Closet