Marcus Johnson – The Phoenix
 |
Three Keys Music
Pianist/live performer/businessman Marcus Johnson, with his 10th album,
invokes the ancient myth of “the Phoenix” – milking the association of
triumph over adversity. Really, Marcus? Where, pray tell, is the pyre
you’re springing from with this “victory?” It’s unclear if contemporary
jazz needs this artist or not. The cleverest work seems to be “Side
Steppin'” with its catchy melodies and inspired playing – but the mood
is still too forced. This bird sounds more like a jive turkey than
anything else. – forrest green III
