Both Sides Of The Fence

I'm beginning to think Seattle has replaced Los Angeles as the focal point of the West Coast jazz scene.

Almost half the releases I've received during the last year have featured artists or groups that have started in - or migrated to - that city. Trumpeter Thomas Marriott is one such individual. Although he played for years, he didn't become known until the mid to late 1990's. He's Seattle born and began his career in that city, then migrated to New York where he made his bones.

He finally returned to Seattle, where he and his trombonist brother (David) formed a quintet that quickly gained recognition.

Marriott is articulate on both the trumpet and flugelhorn. His style is more smooth and laidback than fiery, at times bordering on almost classical intonation and clairity.

He used a group of six musicians for this album: his basic quartet - Marc Seales, piano and fender rhodes; Jeff Johnson, bass; and John Bishop, drums - joined by vibraphonist Joe Locke on two tracks, and tenor saxman Hadley Caliman on one. Marriott wrote three of the tunes; Chick Corea, Duke Ellington and Freddie Hubbard each contributed one.

The remaining tracks are by lesser-known composers, but all are pleasant listening. This is a good, relaxed and relaxing album.