WDR is a public broadcasting network based in Cologne, Germany. Besides television and radio stations, they sponsor several musical groups, one of which is the well-respected WDR Big Band. With their broadcasting connection, the band continually produces impeccably recorded performances, many of which are available on YouTube. The unit is absolutely prolific, and have released over 25 albums since 2013, often in collaboration with jazz stars. Website ; Discogs
Their 2023 album with arranger Chuck Owen, Renderings, was recommended earlier.
They earned Grammy Award nominations for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album in 2022 and 2023. The band partnered with drummer Steve Gadd, bari sax player Ronnie Cuber (RIP), and bassist Eddie Gomez on the album Center Stage, for their 2023 nod. The video above is an album tune performed in-studio.
Steve Gadd, Eddie Gomez, Ronnie Cuber & WDR Big Band, Center Stage, full album: YouTube ; Spotify
The big band’s collaborators for their 2022 nod were the all-time great band Yellowjackets, for Jackets XL. The album was inevitable, as Yellowjackets’ tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer has served as the big band's musical director, on and off, since 2014. The video is an in studio performance of an album tune.
Yellowjackets & WDR Big Band, Jackets XL, full album: YouTube ; Spotify ; Bandcamp
Bob Mintzer did at least 1 other album with WDRBB, Soundscapes, in 2021. Jack Bower/AllAboutJazz: “A luminous showcase for his singular talents as composer, arranger and soloist… he will find a way to swing.” The video is the title track.
Bob Mintzer & WDR Big Band, Soundscapes, full album: YouTube ; Spotify ; Bandcamp
Pianist/vocalist Ricky Peterson joined Bob and the band for 2018s Drop Shot. Peterson recorded multiple albums with Prince and played with saxophonist David Sanborn for ~20 years. This was his 5th as leader.
Ricky Peterson with Bob Mintzer & WDR Big Band, Drop Shot, full album: YouTube ; Spotify
On playlists at Spotify/JazzTodayish: Center Stage - Grammy Jazz 2022, Jazz Best Albums 2022, Big Band 2022; Jackets XL & Soundscapes - Big Band 2021; Drop Shot - Big Band 2018. 😎