Like many Ryan Kisor compositions, the melody of this song is a workout for any instrument. It's full of unpredictable lines that twist around in passing tones and enclosures. The form of the in head is an even 32 measures. Our lead sheets show A, B, C, and D sections, but the out head starts from B; since A and D are the same, A could be also seen as an intro. This first section has a rather simpler, bluesy melody; the tricky lines begin as the B section approaches. Both B and C are over a vamp in the rhythm section, using E♭maj7 to resolve between Dm7 and Em7 throughout. Solos are on D minor blues.
The liner notes of "The Dream" mention that Minor Ordeal was inspired by Booker Little; this song certainly has a bit of that unique bittersweet mood associated with Little's compositions.
Earlier in May 2001, Ryan Kisor recorded with vocalist Paula West and pianist David Matthews as well as with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. His next recording after "The Dream" was also in the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, playing Wynton Marsalis' jazz symphony "All Rise."
Perhaps best known for his work with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Ryan Kisor is an accomplished trumpeter and one of the rising names on the jazz scene. Firmly rooted in the post-bop tradition, Ryan has obviously done a lot of listening to giants like Clifford Brown and Booker Little and Woody Shaw. Of course, he's also been influenced by contemporary mentors including Clark Terry and Wynton Marsalis, both masters of the art of great trumpet playing. Read more...
