The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra was always a little ahead of its time and Sunset Strip is a fine example of avant garde writing. This chart is a cool swinger, yet offers solo space for Piano, Tenor, Clarinet (Alto 2), Trumpet, Alto 1 and Drums. All solos are improvised from the chords provided and the Bass part is a mix of chords and "as written" lines. The original arrangement was scored by Sonny Burke and he came up with some excellent harmonic constructs, particularly the modulation into the Clarinet solo and the rhythmically unique ending of the chart. This is not an easy arrangement to play, but if your band is slick and tight and has some good soloists this chart will be very rewarding. Alto 2 doubles Clarinet. Grade: Medium/Advanced. Duration: 4:45
