The University of North Texas Two O'Clock Lab Band returns with Return Two Paradise, a program that captures one of the finest ensembles director Rob Parton has led at UNT. Drawn from two live studio sessions with no overdubbed solos, the album showcases the extraordinary depth of the UNT Jazz Composition and Arranging program, with all but two pieces written or arranged by students. The repertoire spans a wide arc: the explosive opener "Hello!" composed and arranged by Jack Lanhardt, the cinematic title track arranged by Eric Ladish, tender readings of Randy Newman's film music featuring vocalists Georgia Barge and Ava Ramsey, and two Leonard Bernstein arrangements by Richard DeRosa. Bob Brookmeyer's "Make Me Smile" and student originals by Agustin Alonso and Eric Ladish round out a program that is technically demanding, emotionally direct, and full of standout solo work. Return Two Paradise is a testament to what UNT jazz is producing at the highest level.
