Thomas Marriott Individuation CD

Winner of the 1999 Carmine Caruso International Jazz Competition, the Seattle-based trumpeter Marriott Thomas made his mark in New York over the last 5 years in performances with Rosemary Clooney, Bob Berg, Bebe Valdez, Joe Locke and world tours with May

Personnel: Thomas Marriott (trumpet, flugelhorn); Thomas Marriott; Jeff Johnson (double bass); John Bishop (drums); Rick Mandyck (alto saxophone); David Budway (piano, electric piano, Fender Rhodes piano); Joe Locke (vibraphone).
Audio Mixer: Floyd Reitsman.
Recording information: Studio Litho, Seattle, WA (09/01/2004).
Photographer: Steve Robinson .
Arrangers: Joe Locke; David Marriott, Jr.
The opening "Sing a Song" puts the focus on Thomas Marriott's trumpet tone and mostly features him playing long tones. The next two selections, "Domino City" and "Tout de Suite," are a bit of a contrast, for they showcase Marriott in a group that recalls Miles Davis' early fusion days, circa 1969-1971. Marriott and altoist Rick Mandyck, the latter on those two numbers but regrettably only one other cut, work together particularly well, and David Budway's Fender Rhodes piano is perfect for this setting. After the playful if slightly melancholy "Baby Mine," the driving "Mission" has Marriott and the returning Mandyck emulating the mid-'60s Miles Davis Quintet. The downbeat ballad "Love You Tonight," a spirited "Individuation," and a brooding "Returning" conclude the program. The performances are uplifted by the vibraphone of Joe Locke on four of the eight selections. Marriott is a versatile player with strong potential, and his thoughtful set grows in interest with each listening. ~ Scott Yanow