Brick House 3 horns (S.Evans)

"Brick House," the iconic funk anthem by The Commodores, burst onto the music scene in August 1977, quickly becoming a staple of the disco and funk era. Originating from a spontaneous jam session by the band, the track was eventually fleshed out with lyrics penned by Shirley Hanna-King, wife of band member William King, who drew inspiration from the phrase "built like a brick shithouse" to describe a strong, attractive woman. The song, featuring drummer Walter "Clyde" Orange on lead vocals instead of the more common Lionel Richie, showcases the Commodores' raw, energetic funk side, contrasting with their softer ballads. It soared to #5 on the U.S. Pop chart and #4 on the R&B chart, solidifying its place as a timeless classic that continues to ignite dance floors worldwide. Shaun Evans' arrangement for 3 horns masterfully captures the infectious groove and vibrant energy of this funk classic. Set at a driving medium-fast funk tempo, this chart immediately establishes the signature bassline and rhythmic guitar ostinatos that define the original. Evans, known for his ability to craft arrangements that are both authentic to the source material and engaging for performers, employs tight, punchy horn voicings that pay homage to the classic funk horn sections. The arrangement maintains the original's key, allowing for seamless integration into a funk or R&B setlist. The mood is undeniably celebratory and high-energy, designed to get audiences moving and musicians locked into a deep pocket. The arrangement features the melody primarily in the lead trumpet and alto saxophone, often in unison or tight octaves to deliver that characteristic brassy punch. While specific solo sections are built-in, Evans' approach often allows for flexible improvisation over the established funk vamp, encouraging musicians to explore their creativity within the groove. Technical challenges include maintaining rhythmic precision and articulation in the driving eighth-note lines, particularly in the horn section's rhythmic figures and the bassline. The ensemble will find this piece incredibly rewarding to perform due to its undeniable audience appeal and the satisfaction of locking into such a foundational funk groove. The arrangement's dynamic contrasts and powerful shout choruses provide ample opportunity for a small ensemble to sound much larger than its three horns. This arrangement is ideally suited for college and community jazz ensembles, as well as professional small combos seeking a high-impact funk chart. Its accessible yet challenging nature makes it perfect for developing rhythmic tightness and stylistic authenticity in a funk context. High school bands with strong lead players and a solid rhythm section can also tackle this piece, benefiting from its clear structure and engaging parts. The arrangement's 21 pages of meticulously notated parts ensure that each musician has a well-defined role, contributing to a cohesive and powerful performance. To truly capture the essence of "Brick House," focus on rhythmic precision and a deep, consistent funk pocket. The tempo should be medium-fast, around 112-120 BPM, with a strong emphasis on the backbeat and a slightly delayed feel in the eighth notes to achieve the authentic funk swing. The rhythm section is paramount: the bassline must be solid and unwavering, and the drums should lay down a tight, driving groove with crisp hi-hat work. Horn articulation is key; aim for short, punchy stabs on accented notes and clear, sustained tones on longer phrases. Encourage a unified approach to falls and scoops, ensuring they are executed with stylistic consistency. Rehearsal time should be dedicated to locking in the horn section's rhythmic figures with the rhythm section, particularly during the main groove and shout choruses. Emphasize dynamic contrasts to build excitement, especially leading into and out of solo sections. Q: What instruments are included in this "Brick House" arrangement? A: This arrangement is scored for a 3-horn small ensemble, typically including Trumpet, Alto Saxophone, and Tenor Saxophone, along with a full rhythm section (Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums). Q: What is the difficulty level of this arrangement? A: This arrangement is rated as Medium-Advanced, suitable for college and community jazz ensembles, and capable high school bands with strong lead players and a solid rhythm section. Q: What musical style and historical context does this arrangement represent? A: This arrangement is a vibrant example of 1970s funk music, originally popularized by The Commodores in 1977, characterized by its infectious groove, strong rhythmic interplay, and prominent horn lines. Q: What makes Shaun Evans' arrangement of "Brick House" unique? A: Shaun Evans' arrangement is distinctive for its authentic funk voicings, tight horn section writing, and ability to translate the original's full sound to a smaller 3-horn ensemble, while providing opportunities for improvisation. Q: What is the approximate performance duration of this piece? A: The performance duration will typically range from 3:30 to 4:30 minutes, depending on the length and number of improvised solos taken.