Review: Gary Motley | de*par*ture
As I cruised down the highway immersed in my quiet time listening to this advanced offering by composer, pianist and educator Gary Motley, it was no surprise that I was witness to a de*par*ture from the mundane. From the line, this project fittingly takes off with a fast-paced Fits And Starts, and keeps pace into Someday Sunday. Suffice it to say it continues with the title track and moves easily through the balance of the eight tunes that comprise this work.
I was halfway through a most engaging escape when the voice of Alex Lattimore snapped me back to reality and my internal conversation rebooted. Not just listening to words, I found myself interacting with the lyrics of life. Arranging sound and rhythm like light and shadows of film noir, this consummate accompanist enhances the poignancy and sensitivity of Caught and Stay With Me that touches the heart of any relationship mired in the pursuit and promise of love.
With a project like this, one can only surmise that only schedules were the biggest obstacle in getting into the studio. Enlisting bassist Craig Shaw and drummer Terreon Gully, two fellow original members of The Swing Association, it is never more evident that Gary knew their magic had not been lost over time. One clearly hears the comfort of camaraderie in their performance, each playing off and with the other. Mix in the additional ingredients of lyricist/vocalist Veronica Motley, flautist Randy Hunter, and guitarist Dan Baraszu with the strings of the Vega Quartet and you have a perfect blend of talent.
What I discovered with this recording is there is no track order that would otherwise diminish the experience. In the days of wax they used to say, “drop the needle and let it play” which meant there was no need to skip over tracks. In Mr. Motley’s case, it is a departure, in that any order is just as delightful. Listen as you desire and I guarantee, you will play and recommend this work of art to friends for years to come.
carl anthony | notorious jazz | august 28, 2014
Give A Gift Of Jazz ~ Share 
#preserving genius
More Posts: bandleader,history,instrumental,jazz,music,piano,review
The Jazz Voyager
Gregory’s Jazz Club: Via Gregoriana, 54, 00187 Rome, Italy / +39 06 679 6386 / www.gregorysjazz.com
The club offers great ambience, humble prices and unequalled service rarely seen at a jazz club. The staff are fluent in English as well as their native tongue, making it a pleasurable experience. Reservations are highly suggested for dinner and music. 15.00 Euros covers admission and first drink for most shows excluding Special Events. Great music, food, drinks and smiles from everyone working at the club.
Sponsored By
The Jazz Voyager
Jazzablanca Festival: Rue Lice d’Anfa, Casablanca, Morocco / Telephone: 06 01 02 98 78 / Email: info@jazzablanca.com / www.jazzablanca.com
Jazzablanca returns in late March to early April 2015 for a week of music, discovery and sharing. The festival has expanded to include music and entertainment in various areas of the city. A large parade is usually held on the Corniche and launches the festivities to meet Casablancans and visitors of all ages. Every evening concerts highlighting the Moroccan scene will set the pace amongst national and international acts. Young artists train each year for four weeks and will perform on Sunday on the main stage. Check the website as the festival dates near to see the schedule artists, dates, times and locations.
Sponsored By
The Jazz Voyager
Dazzle Restaurant and Lounge: 930 Lincoln Street, Denver, Colorado / Telephone: 303-839-5100 Fax: 303-839-5102 / info@dazzlejazz.com / Web: dazzlejazz.com / Contact: Miles Snyder or Donald Rossa.
DazzleJazz presents an authentic jazz club experience unlike anything in Colorado. You will expect a high quality of service, food and drink to accompany the intimate showcase of local, national and international musicians. The club has been listed as “One of the Top 100 Jazz Clubs in the World” by Downbeat Magazine and “Best Jazz Club” by Westword. They strive to be a positive and unique part of the Denver community. Cool cocktails, fine cuisine and jivin’ jazz!
Sponsored By
The Jazz Voyager
JazzMan: Roger de Flor, 238, Barcelona, Spain / Telephone: 667618593 / Contact: David Toribio.
The Jazzman is a cozy little jazz club located at the Eixample of Barcelona since 1979. You will feel calm when you listen to jazz in all its styles, enjoying a friendly cosmopolitan atmosphere of Barcelona nights with veteran artists or new talent. The musicians play in the attic, where the table nearest to the scene invades the space of the musicians, so be wary not to let the musician knock over your drinks. The club has two rooms that are quiet and you can talk without being attacked by a aggressive decibels. It is also a place where you can enjoy a great variety of spirits, cava or even coffee in the afternoons. The warmth and closeness give reason enough to visit the Jazzman. Close your eyes and prepare to enjoy a moment of possibility at the oldest club in Barcelona.
Sponsored By