Mark Sherman: The Motive Series (2004)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: December 5, 2004

New York vibraphonist Mark Sherman leads a stellar quartet on The Motive Series, which includes two straight-ahead standards and a number of original themes. His percussive cascades emphasize the spontaneous character of his ensemble, as well as the artists' fluid interplay. Cohesive and enriched by the vibraphone's overlaying harmonies, the quartet strolls confidently through visions of Latin lightheartedness, soulful blues passions, and dramatic fire.

Tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker guests on two arrangements which stretch the session's capacity for serious intensity. With his two cameos, fire and passion drive the ensemble forcefully.

A mellow "Soothing Dream" and an introspective "Venture Within" feature Sherman's sonorous vibraphone with peaceful strolls. Waltzing with a loping stride, he releases fluid streams of lyrical phrases, all tied together seamlessly. Solos from piano and bass complement the desired mood.

"That Moment" captures a rolling wave that Sherman's vibraphone portrays naturally. He swings lightly as he connects spontaneous phrases in a laid-back, relaxed fashion. "Altered" toys with harmony in such a way that blue notes and "Monk" ideas commingle in a marriage of spirit. As the session's high point, this closing number foretells that The Motive Series, Sherman's fourth album, promises a future with greater recognition for a deserving talent.

Visit Mark Sherman on the web for audio samples.

Track Listing: Nature Boy; Motive #10 Judaican; Motive #1; Motive #11 Always Reaching; Motive #7 Alla Sandra; Motive #3 That Moment; Motive #4 Venture Within; Motive #9 Soothing Dream; Old Folks; Motive #8 Altered.

Personnel: Mark Sherman- vibraphone; Allen Farnham- piano; Phil Palombi- bass; Tim Horner- drums; Michael Brecker- tenor saxophone on "Motive #10" Judaican" and "Motive #11 Always Reaching."

Record Label: CAP
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream