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

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