Phil Markowitz's playing on this 1996 CD is a bit reminiscent of
Jim McNeely's in that he is influenced by
Bill Evans and enjoys reharmonizing standards. For his Passage release,
Markowitz contributes three originals (including a tribute to
Phil Woods, "In the Woods") and comes up with fresh versions of four standards (such as an uptempo "Georgia on My Mind") and
Wayne Shorter's "Black Eyes." Although his subtle set (with bassist Roy Cumming and drummer Glenn Davis) is not particularly catchy or flashy, the music is well-played and there is plenty of interaction between the members of the trio. ~ Scott Yanow