Urban Renewal Big Band
This is the largest ensemble in Urban Renewal Jazz, and the foundation for all our other activities. The Urban Renewal Big Band has its roots in the Jimmy Coe Orchestra, which was a band dating from the 1960's, born of the Count Basie tradition performing modern jazz as well as popular music loved by generations. Members of that orchestra formed a “Who’s Who” of the golden age of Indiana Avenue.
Following Coe's death in 2004, trumpeter Cliff Ratliff and singer Larry Greene decided to form a band that would carry on the tradition of “urban jazz”, meaning a heavy concentration on a tight rhythm section, strong groove, and inspiring improvisation. Thus the Clifford Ratliff Big Band was formed.
Today, we aim to continue this tradition and have adopted the name Urban Renewal Big Band, a multi-generational and multi-cultural band. Cliff appears most nights in the trumpet section and Jimmie Coe Jr. continues as band manager. Unlike other big bands in the area, the Urban Renewal Big Band performs all its own arrangements, many penned by Rudy Finnell, for a performance that is unlike any others.
For a more complete history, see our blog article.
Following Coe's death in 2004, trumpeter Cliff Ratliff and singer Larry Greene decided to form a band that would carry on the tradition of “urban jazz”, meaning a heavy concentration on a tight rhythm section, strong groove, and inspiring improvisation. Thus the Clifford Ratliff Big Band was formed.
Today, we aim to continue this tradition and have adopted the name Urban Renewal Big Band, a multi-generational and multi-cultural band. Cliff appears most nights in the trumpet section and Jimmie Coe Jr. continues as band manager. Unlike other big bands in the area, the Urban Renewal Big Band performs all its own arrangements, many penned by Rudy Finnell, for a performance that is unlike any others.
For a more complete history, see our blog article.