The Ken Peplowski Big Band - Sunrise (2018)

Sunrise is a 2018 big band jazz album by clarinetist and bandleader Ken Peplowski, released on Arbors Records. Known for his warm tone and deep roots in the swing and mainstream jazz tradition, Peplowski leads a vibrant big band that blends classic jazz sensibilities with modern arrangements and a fresh, contemporary energy. The album features a mix of well-loved standards and jazz classics, all interpreted through rich, full-bodied big band orchestrations.

Peplowski’s leadership is central to the album, both as a performer and as a musical director shaping the overall sound. The arrangements highlight the ensemble’s dynamic brass and reed sections, supported by a tight and swinging rhythm section. Pianist Ehud Asherie, bassist Nicki Parrott, and drummer Chuck Redd provide a strong foundation, while guitar, saxophones, trombones, and trumpets contribute to the lush and layered orchestral texture. Tracks like “Chega De Saudade,” “If I Were A Bell,” and “The Eternal Triangle” showcase the band’s ability to balance intricate arrangements with expressive improvisation. Sunrise stands as a modern big band recording that pays homage to jazz tradition while delivering polished and engaging performances.

Tracklist:
1. All I Need Is The Girl (5:25)
2. Chega De Saudade (6:19)
3. Estate (7:06)
4. If I Were A Bell (7:08)
5. Clarinet In Springtime (4:12)
6. When You Wish Upon A Star (5:13)
7. The Eternal Triangle (6:26)
8. Spring Is Here (5:48)
9. Duet (3:20)
10. The One I Love Belongs To Somebody Else (6:08)
11. I Like The Sunrise (6:39)
12. Come Back To Me (4:30)

Personnel:
Bass – Nicki Parrott
Clarinet, Leader, Liner Notes – Ken Peplowski
Drums – Chuck Redd
Engineer – Chris Sulit
Graphics – Nathalie Breakstone
Guitar – Matt Munisteri
Photography[Cover] – Des McMahon
Photography By[Rehearsals + Sessions] – John Herr
Piano – Ehud Asherie
Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet – Adrian Cunningham, Carl Maraghi, Jack Stuckey, Jon Gordon, Mark Lopeman
Trombone – Bruce Eidem, Harvey Tibbs, Jennifer Wharton, John Allred
Trumpet – Andy Gravish, Jon-Erik Kellso, Randy Reinhart, Bob Millikan