Mike McClelland Rm 210: You'll Hear It: The Music of Bob Fenton

The Mike McClelland Quartet in this release has adopted the title of Mike McClelland Rm 210, led by McClelland on drums and joined by a stellar trio of Toronto musicians, including Mike Murley on tenor and soprano saxophones, Reg Schwager on guitar, and bassist Neil Swainson. The band pays a heartfelt tribute to pianist and composer Bob Fenton with You'll Hear It— The Music of Bob Fenton .

Fenton left an indelible mark on the Toronto jazz scene, and this release not only honors his legacy but also reintroduces his compositions to a new generation of listeners.

Fenton was an original thinker shaped by the innovations of Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, and Miles Davis, with his compositions marked by rich harmonic movement, rhythmic intricacy, and unpredictable lyricism. The opening track, "Prelude and Premise," draws the listener into a world where swing, modal exploration and bebop sensibilities merge effortlessly. Murley flawlessly navigates the terrain with expressive depth. Schwager's work is fluid and tasteful, with Swainson providing an unwavering foundation. McClelland leads from the drums without overpowering the melodic storytelling.

The follow-on track is named "Chris," featuring Murley on soprano sax. It ambles along at a moderate pace, giving Schwager ample room to show his mettle. Swainson will come in eventually with his deep-throated bass sound. "The Lady Knows" is an introspective number that Murley perfectly captures through his haunting phrasing. Schwager's exploration is adventurous with signature sophistication. An up-tempo burner is "What's the Rub," wherein the group's interplay sparkles. Propelled by McClelland's irresistible rhythmic aplomb, Murley's improvisations soar, and Schwager demonstrates his knack for digital dexterity. Swainson completes the picture with bass lines of slashing intensity.

The title track is "Don't Worry You'll Hear It" another up-tempo adventure. Not only is it an exploration of Fenton's compositional vision, it is a showcase of the technical excellence of the band members. The album closes with "Premise" with its angular melody and shifting rhythms. In this full body workout, Fenton's composition comes alive in the hands of these master musicians.