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John MacMurchy: Outside the Ministry of Truth
ByNot much, really, as what we have here are fairly straightforward renditions of half a dozen superlative post-bop compositions by MacMurchy. In other words, even Outside the Ministry of Truth melody, harmony and rhythm remain securely in place, and for that we can breathe a collective sigh of relief. MacMurchy’s strapping tenor, which he plays on the first four numbers, is well-proportioned and emphatically modern, out of the Michael Brecker/Joe Lovano/Branford Marsalis/Don Braden school, and he has the chops to resolve easily any problems that may arise. To show his versatility, MacMurchy moves to clarinet on “Bayview Extension,” alto on “Through the Looking Glass,” and is as quick and sure-handed on either instrument as he is on tenor.
MacMurchy’s rhythm section is sturdy and tasteful, with pianist Robi Botos and guitarist Joey Goldstein making the most of their several solo opportunities while bassist Victor Bateman adds an effective statement on the sunny “Bayview Extension.” The quintet is enlarged on the wailing “Intruder Alert” by tenor saxophonist Bob Brough and baritone Perry White, each of whom solos persuasively, as well as bassoonist Kenneth Hodge and alto flutist Doriann Forrester.
Ministry or no, there’s an abundance of musical truth on this captivating studio date, an excellent outing for the talented MacMurchy and his able companions. We’ll no doubt be hearing more from him in the months and years ahead.
Track Listing
Outside the Ministry of Truth; Top Dead-Centre; Intruder Alert; No More Victims; Bayview Extension; Through the Looking Glass (49:35).
Personnel
John MacMurchy
clarinetJohn MacMurchy, tenor, alto saxophone, clarinet; Robi Botos, piano; Joey Goldstein, guitar; Victor Bateman, bass; Bob McLaren, drums. Additional musicians on
Album information
Title: Outside the Ministry of Truth | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Unknown label
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About John MacMurchy
Instrument: Clarinet
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