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Mark Elf: Mark Elf Returns 2014
ByMark Elf Returns 2014 finds the guitarist swinging alongside an A-list rhythm section made up of pianist David Hazeltine, bassist Peter Washington, and drummer Lewis Nash. All three men were aboard for Elf's two previous projectsGlad To Be Back (Jen Bay Records, 2004) and Liftoff (Jen Bay Records, 2006)so there's instant rapport, something that's really required when recording without rehearsal, as was done here.
The music presented on this one is direct and accessible, as Elf delivers swingers, a couple of ballads, a spicy mambo, and plenty of songs that basically follow the tried-and-true head-solos-head format. And though the song form(s) may be predictable at times, song forms are merely vessels meant to contain the music. It's what the musicians put into those songs that counts, and these men only add the finest musical ideas and ingredients to these successful sonic recipes.
The album opens on "A Little Ditty," a swinging number that's based on the changes of "Jordu," and quickly moves to ballad country with "It Was So Beautiful." After that, there's more modest swing, a one-off guest shot from percussionist Steven Kroon on "Michellie's Mambo," a pair of burning numbers that feature Elf on baritone guitar, and a mellow goodbye in the form of "The Sandy Effect." There's lots to love here solo-wise, with plenty of fine work from Elf and Hazeltine, lots of trading fours with Nash, and an eye-of-the-storm solo from Washington during "Low Blow."
This is straight-ahead jazz as it should be played. Here's to hoping that life doesn't delay the next one from Elf.
Track Listing
A Little Ditty; It Was So Beautiful; Jacky's Jaunt; Time On My Hands; Michellie's Mambo; Low Blow; Titillating; The Bottom Line; People Will Say We're In Love; The Sandy Effect.
Personnel
Mark Elf
guitarMark Elf: guitar; David Hazeltine; piano; Peter Washington: bass; Lewis Nash: drums; Steven Kroon: percussion (5).
Album information
Title: Mark Elf Returns 2014 | Year Released: 2014 | Record Label: Jen Bay Records
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