LOUIE & CLARK EXPEDITION 2 is a big band collaboration of drummer Louie Bellson and trumpeter Clark Terry, each an American jazz master in his own right. These “2” legends perform, improvise, mentor and lead a 17-piece big band on an adventure reminiscent of its namesake, the historic “Lewis and Clark Expedition” of 1803. As composer, Bellson calls upon four capable arrangers including Tonight Show bandleader, Tommy Newsom. The opening four movements, The Chicago Suite, form the latest entry into a series of composer Bellson’s salutes to American cities. Also of note is a delightful drum feature, "Two Guys and a Gal", showcasing three drummers Bellson, Kenny Washington and Sylvia Cuenca. Liner notes written by historian and jazz advocate Nat Hentoff describe the music as a “…celebration of the human spirit that keeps regenerating itself.” OFFICIAL WEBSITES: www.louiebellson.com www.clarkterry.com MUSICIANS: LOUIE BELLSON, composer & drums CLARK TERRY, trumpet & flugelhorn Kenny Washington & Sylvia Cuenca, drums 17-piece big band SUMMARY: Genres: Big Band, Jazz, Swing Studio Recording: May 29-30, 2007 New York Release: 2008 Label: Percussion Power Executive Producer: Louie Bellson Design Producer: Francine Bellson Liner Notes: Nat Hentoff REVIEWS OF THIS CD: (for links, go to website: www.louiebellson.com > “Press Coverage” page) JAZZWAX.COM BLOG The inaugural review of the "Louie & Clark Expedition 2" CD is a lovely Valentine's read from New York JazzWax.com blogger Marc Myers who reports that he received it, played it and "...didn't take it off until ... 15 hours later!" (click link at left) A fan wrote in the Bellson website: "STILL BEYOND CATEGORY" The talented Mr. Bellson just keeps on swinging. Check out the track, "Give Me The Good Time" and you'll hear how the Lord blessed him with that - and also with great musicianship. In addition to being a great drummer, Louie is also a great person. So it's no wonder that he attracts the best players for his albums, like Clark Terry for this one. I would recommend this music highly to anyone who wants to hear the best in big band drumming. Mr. Bellson is still "Beyond Category." --Craig Elliott, 3/11/08 "INCREDIBLE ... AMAZING ... EXHILARATING" And we have yet to recover from these high accolades contained in the review by Jack Bowers of All About Jazz, 3/5/08.