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Mark Isaacs Resurgence Band: Tell It Like It Is
ByTell It Like It is was recorded live the Sound Lounge in Sydney, Australia in August, 2008. Isaacs lead his quartet through eight original compositions of sharply honed modern jazz. "Minsk" opens the disc and is the collection's most provocative piece. Constructed over a simple descending piano figure, the deceptively modest piece provides Isaacs, soprano saxophonist Matt Keegan and guitarist James Muller acres of space in which to solo. "You Never Forget Love" is what the 20th Century ballad turned into when the clock struck 12:00 AM. Carefully paced and quiet, a duet between Isaacs and Muller dramatically evolves into a full ensemble piece featuring Keegan playing tenor.
The two-part suite, "Night Song," begins as a quiet nocturne with a lengthy melody that allows the song to develop, wave-like, into full realization. Isaacs is a master of writing pieces that are both emotionally complex and yet still orderly. Never does an Isaacs composition devolve into inane banging and clanging; this is music composed and performed for the listener, not at them. Wonderfully integrated, thoughtful and intelligent, Tell It Like It is continues Mark Isaacs musical journey, providing some of the best on the cutting edge of accessible jazz.
Track Listing
Minsk; You Never Forget Love; Homecoming; Night Song Part 1; Night Song Part 2; Angel; Tell It Like It Is; Between the Shores.
Personnel
Mark Isaacs
pianoMark Isaacs: piano; James Muller: guitar; Matt Keegan: soprano and tenor saxophone; Brett Hirst: bass; Tim Firth: drums.
Album information
Title: Tell It Like It Is | Year Released: 2010 | Record Label: ABC Jazz