Marc Copland And...

by Glenn AstaritaSaxophonist 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.