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Scott Colley: The Magic Line

By Glenn Astarita
October 1, 2000
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One of the premier session bassist’s in jazz steps out of the pocket with his first solo outing for the Arabesque label titled, The Magic Line. And along with the laudable support of saxophonist Chris Potter and drummer Bill Stewart, Scott Colley exhibits multifarious attributes as a leader and composer. The Trio serves up an interesting mix on pieces such as the title track where the bassist commences with an extended solo passage followed by Potter’s entry on tenor. Here, the duo performs fluid unison lines amid Stewart’s backwashes of tonal shading and altogether colorful utilization of his cymbals while Colley and Potter also display a resourceful and noticeably inventive harmonic relationship throughout the entire affair.

The band performs an affable groove oriented spin on the theme from the old Andy Griffith TV series, aptly titled, “Mayberry” while they also turn in a peppery swing vamp on “Dog Logic” as Stewart and Potter trade sprightly fours atop Colley’s fervent walking bass lines and broad bottom. Overall, there’s quite a bit to get revved up about here as the band emits a quiet fire amid thoughtful improvising and intriguing ensemble work. A noteworthy endeavor it is!

* * * * (out of * * * * *)

Track Listing

Take It And Like It; The Magic Line; Convergence; Monroe Street; Metropolis; Trip To Williamsburg; Dualessence; Soul Gravity; Mayberry; Dog Logic; Epilogue.

Personnel

Scott Colley

bass

Scott Colley: bass; Chris Potter: tenor and soprano saxophones, bass clarinet; Bill Stewart: drums.

Album information

Title: The Magic Line | Year Released: 2000 | Record Label: Arabesque Jazz

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