Search - Phillip Strange, Larry Marshall :: In the Moment

Another quality recording from Phillip Strange.

jazzlive | 05/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This time pianist Phillip Strange teams up with drummer Larry Marshall to create some of the most colorful music ever heard from a jazz duo. I initially expected to miss having the bass voice but soon realized it wasn't an issue. The communication between piano and drums is full and complete and needs no other voices.



As with his earlier release Quiet (Summit Records), Strange continues to explore territories not commonly visited in jazz piano. Where every phrase is meaningful and given its time to shine. Where nothing is overstated or forced for the sake of volume or impact but rather ideas are allowed to grow naturally carrying the listener along freely. The interplay between Strange and Marshall is extraordinary and fun to hear. There isn't any fighting to have the dominant voice, just animated communication. Marshall has the perfect light but decisive touch to compliment and be complimented by Strange's piano. Specifically, in Take 5 Marshall's soloing is particularly inspired and worth the price of the CD alone.



All in all, one of my favorites this year.



Notable tunes are Take 5 with a darker tone and more attitude, In The Moment, blues with more thought and richer harmony, and Someday My Prince Will Come, still a waltz but with a much broader range of emotion than any I've heard before.



Don't miss this one."