2008, USA
Biography, Documentary, Music
READ THE REVIEW AT The Desert Sun.
Sometimes the best do not realize how good they are. Jazz trumpeter Jack Sheldon believes he receives validation every time he plays on stage and feels everything else is just rehearsal. Sometimes the best are also overshadowed by showier celebrities, and first-time directors Doug McIntyre and Penny Peyser want to bring Sheldon into the spotlight with their documentary, Trying to Get Good: The Jazz Odyssey of Jack Sheldon.
The unsung virtuoso will be immediately familiar to Gen-Xers as the singing voice of "Schoolhouse Rock!" (and spoofing his own work on "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy"). Older generations will recognize him as Merv Griffin's trumpet-slinging band leader. However, Sheldon has played with his share of impressive musicians -- Benny Goodman, Stan Kenton and Chet Baker, for example -- and held his own.
Sheldon's career is not all rosy, as the jazz player maintained a rock 'n' roll lifestyle. Divorce, drugs and alcohol affected his profession and helped to label him as a renegade player. However, his commitment to his craft guided him to focus on his skills and find his highs on stage, even when tragedy struck his family.
Despite his problems, praise runs high by those who have known and worked with him. As a frequent movie music contributor, his paths have crossed with the likes of Clint Eastwood and Billy Crystal, who not only appreciate his musical talents but his crude humor. As the film unfolds, so does Sheldon's crass nightclub comedy, which many note often has to be kept in check for tamer audiences.
Beyond the lifestyle and jokes, on stage one thing remains certain: this is a man with skills. At 75 years old, Sheldon maintains remarkable dexterity and articulation, and fellow musicians such as Chris Botti and David Frishberg note what a distinct sound Sheldon developed. His work ethic is startling, to the point of playing in the streets even as he was employed by Griffin. As entertaining as Sheldon is as a person, he has proven to be even more enchanting as a musician.
Trying to Get Good is a straightforward mix of interviews, archival footage and performances. It stands as a simple dedication to a musician who may not be a household name like his peers, but who is deserved of recognition.