Marcus H. Mitchell – R&R

Sophomore project from Marcus Mitchell, entitled “R&R (Rest and Relaxation)” is an excellent follow up to his ’05 release “Jumpin'”. Right away you get a sense of real maturity from the opening track. And as you listen to the album in it’s entirety, Marcus stays true to his central theme throughout. At only 24 years old, he plays like a seasoned pro. With influences like the late Charlie Parker, its not hard to see why this young saxophonist is headed for stardom!

The album starts off with a bang with “Saturday Night”. With an attention grabbing yet subtle intro its no wonder it has become a hit single. It also doesn’t hurt to have starpower like Jeff Lorber (Narada Jazz) on your team, as he lends a hand with a tasty solo to end the track. Slow it down and cool out with “Summer Breeze”. Nice urban groove with some excellent flute work. For all the late Art Porter fans out there, you’ll be sure to appreciate this one. “Diamond in the Ruff” has tribute written all over it. Art would be proud. (R.I.P.). Marcus keeps it smooth with “Deep Concentration”. I’m impressed with the beautiful blend of sax and trumpet! Way to go Dontae!!!

Title track “R&R” is a real crowd pleaser as not too many artists still showcase the bass guitar as prolific as it is displayed in this track. Nice and slow, but not too slow, with an absolutely awesome arrangement. Pay attention to the incredible drum work, you percussion fans, as well as the guitar solo by Beau Talley. Turn it up a notch and bump the bass; “Groove Lounge” is sure to get you on your feet. With a cool bass line and snazzy sax playing no doubt you’ll press repeat. M. Anthony does a masterful job with the programming here and on “Makin’ Moves”.
 
Now every good jazz album MUST have at least one late night cruzin’ track. Well here it is with “When We First Met” featuring Blackbuddafly. Next, Marcus does a great job on an old favorite; “Outstanding”! This ones not over the top like some other artists who try their hand at re cutting a classic. The Gap Band would be proud. My personal favorite on the entire album is “Sharpshooter”. Written, produced and arranged by non other than the incomparable David Dyson, you will definitely understand why when you hear it. Check out the bridge. And “Just Groovin'” wraps up the album nicely. 

If you haven’t already picked it up, go get it. No disappointments here. Beautiful job Marcus and The Urban Music Scene looks forward to your next release.

Cliff Evans

The Urban Music Scene