Mike Mainieri – Crescent – NYC 6041 (2 CDs) 44:24, 45:13 *****:
(Mike Mainieri, Vibraphone; Charlie Mariano, Alto Saxophone; Dieter Ilg, Double Bass)
It’s always tragic when we lose another talented jazz player. Recently, saxophonist Charlie Mariano passed away, and many mourn his passing. Mike Mainieri’s latest album, Crescent, features the last recordings Mariano made, and Mainieri dedicates the record to him. On the album both of them, with Dieter Ilg backing on bass, explore compositions by Coltrane and various classics he was known for reworking. The entire album was deliberately recorded without rehearsal or arrangement, which allows all of the players to come with a freshness and energy that fits their distinctive styles. All three players are in top shape, and they deliver a supple, powerful album that every jazz fan will appreciate.
The album starts off with several great tracks, including Mr. Syms, which features rich, full-bodied phrasing from Mariano and a wonderful solo from Mainieri around the five minute mark. In the album notes, Mainieri discusses Mariano’s “soulful performance”, which fills tracks like I Love You with emotive playing that requires at least two listens to fully take in. I Love You also features great, stringy bass playing from Ilg.
On Ole, Mariano darts in and out of the rest of the band, sharpening the end of his
phrases, while on Crescent he has no patience for subtlety and blasts out each line. Mainieri’s extended solo and interaction with the bass on this track is his finest work on the record. Giant Steps shows the band off in a funkier rhythm, with both Mariano and Mainieri excelling in a more playful style.
Crescent is a tremendous album and a celebration of a wonderful talent who is no longer with us.
TrackList: Disc One = Mr. Syms, Like Someone In Love, I Love You, Wise One, Nancy, Ole, Naima; Disc Two = Crescent, Bye Bye Blackbird, Miles’ Mode, What’s New, Giant Steps, Body And Soul, America
– Ethan Krow
