Now That's What I'm Talkin' About (T.Kubis)

Tom Kubis has long been celebrated as one of the most clever, swinging, and deeply authentic voices in modern big band writing, and "Now That's What I'm Talkin' About" stands as a masterclass in contemporary mainstream jazz composition. Written and recorded to showcase the tight ensemble interplay and high-octane energy characteristic of West Coast studio jazz, this chart captures the irrepressible spirit of late-20th-century American big band music. It embodies a high-spirited, optimistic energy that channels the lineage of Count Basie and Sammy Nestico while injecting it with Kubis’s own signature harmonic twists, playful rhythmic displacement, and relentless forward momentum. Driven by an infectious, bright medium-up swing groove in 4/4 time, the piece radiates an ebullient, celebratory mood. The harmonic landscape is rich with sophisticated extended chords, bright upper-structure triads, and clever chromatic passing tones that keep both the performers and the listener constantly engaged. Kubis opens the chart with a snappy, attention-grabbing motif that immediately establishes the groove, setting up a dynamic journey through shifting textures. The arrangement features brilliant sax solis that weave effortlessly across the ensemble, punctuated by crisp brass punches and a roaring shout chorus that builds inexorably toward a thrilling, high-energy climax. As a master of idiomatic big band writing, Kubis ensures that every section gets a moment in the spotlight. The melodic material is shared fluidly between the brass and saxophones, creating a rich conversational texture. Solo opportunities are a central feature of the arrangement, providing ample space for a standout tenor saxophone solo, a soaring trumpet solo, and a soulful trombone feature that allow advanced improvisers to stretch out over changes reminiscent of classic blues-with-a-bridge forms. Technically, the chart demands crisp articulation, accurate section blend, and strong stamina, particularly in the lead trumpet and saxophone sections, which navigate lightning-fast unison lines and sharp dynamic contrasts. Advanced high school, collegiate, and professional big bands will find this chart to be an exceptionally rewarding addition to their repertoire. While it presents legitimate technical hurdles—including rapid swing eighth-note passages, high range demands for the brass, and a requirement for impeccable internal time—the pay-off is an undeniable crowd-pleaser that brings audiences to their feet. Conductor and ensemble alike will appreciate how logically the chart lies under the fingers once the articulation style is locked in, making it an ideal centerpiece for festival performances, formal concerts, or recorded sets. Unlocking the authentic groove of "Now That's What I'm Talkin' About" requires a strict adherence to traditional medium-up swing articulation. The tempo should be kept right in the comfortable "sweet spot" where swing eighths feel naturally conversational rather than rushed; heavy emphasis must be placed on the upbeat (the "and" of the beat) to maintain the characteristic Kubis buoyancy. Technically, the primary challenge lies in the ensemble unison passages and complex sax solis. Directors should rehearse these sections initially at a reduced tempo, ensuring that all players match tonguing styles, especially on accented notes, short staccatos, and expressive doits and falls. The brass section will need to balance volume and tone carefully during the dense counterpoint sections, ensuring that underlying inner voices do not muddy the main melodic line. For the soloists, provide ample rehearsal time with the rhythm section to lock in the form and groove before layering in horn backgrounds. Finally, pay close attention to dynamic contrast: the transition from muted transitional background figures to open-horn shout choruses must be explosive and immediate. Q: What instrumentation and parts are included in this arrangement? A: This complete 19-instrument big band arrangement includes a full conductor score across its 80 pages, alongside standard parts for 5 saxophones (with designated solo spots), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, and a full rhythm section comprising piano, guitar, bass, and drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of this chart? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced, making it best suited for college ensembles, top-tier high school jazz bands, and professional groups due to its demanding technical passages, high brass range requirements, and need for tight section ensemble cohesion. Q: What is the musical style and historical context of the piece? A: Written by renowned arranger and composer Tom Kubis, the piece is a modern mainstream jazz swing chart that draws heavy inspiration from the swinging tradition of Count Basie while incorporating contemporary West Coast harmonic sophistication and wit. Q: What makes this Tom Kubis arrangement unique? A: The chart stands out due to its signature Kubis voicings, clever motivic development, highly interactive rhythm section writing, and seamless integration of multiple featured soloists (tenor sax, trumpet, and trombone) without ever losing its relentless forward momentum. Q: What is the recommended performance tempo and duration? A: The piece is designed to be performed at a bright, driving medium-up swing tempo (approximately quarter note = 180–192 BPM), with a total duration of roughly 4 to 5 minutes depending on the length of the open improvised solo sections.