Product: Tommy Igoe and the Birdland Big Band: Live From New York
Rating: 5.0
Top notch -- like everything else T.I. does
Tommy Igoe is well known within the drumming community as one of the premier teachers of the art. You usually can't get to that level of recognition without also being a pretty good player. It's not necessary to be a great player to be a great teacher, but it helps with the "street cred". This DVD shows that Mr. Igoe has more than enough street-c. His talents are right up there with the absolute best of the best of the drum-kings including Weckl, Gadd, Smith, and Colaiuta. Don't believe me? Just get this DVD and watch. This guy has so much musical talent....he plays so musically, with so much power and speed -- but always within the context of the composition. In addition, he leads an absolutely incredible band. Not only is this DVD a must have for any drummer, anyone who would enjoy a phenomenal big-band performance should have it too. Every other member of the band is up to the incredible standard set by Mr. Igoe. The only bad news is that after seeing this DVD, you'll probably have to add a trip to NY and the birdland jazz club as another "must" to see the band play in person. Until you can arrange that, get this DVD and enjoy it over, and over again. I'd give it 6 stars if I could. Can't wait for the next CD or DVD from the band!