Saxophonist turned jazz pianist
Marc Copland has been busy recording for a Switzerland based record label. He continues his high level of musicianship with his core trio, along with tenor saxophonist
Michael Brecker and guitarist
John Abercombie, both performing on selected tracks.
Copland possesses a sensitive touch, while also residing as a well-versed swing and bop pianist. On the piece titled "See You Again," he lays down a groove ridden, lower register ostinato in support of
Brecker's gritty, and rather heartening lines, as the soloists purse an open-ended dialogue via their peppery improvisations.
Copland's and
Abercrombie's temperate and reflective spin of
Miles Davis' classic "Blue Is Green," serves as a mood-evoking ballad. While
Charlie Parker's "Air Conditioning" features the guitarist's inimitable phraseology, fused with climactic lines and diminutive voicings. Here, the quartet's ascending momentum and bebop rhythms might suggest a sense of tension to complement an element of surprise. Other highlights include a sequence of staggered flows, marked by
Brecker's soaring skyward approach and
Copland's melodically shaded chord progressions. And of course, the rhythm section of bassist
Drew Gress and drummer
Jochen Rueckert provide the soloists with all the ammo required. ~ Glenn Astarita