Ben Markley - Tell The Truth [CD]

With his two acclaimed big band recordings, and quartet sessions with saxophonists Joel Frahm and Greg Osby, pianist/composer Ben Markley has been steadily building a significant discography since his 2008 OA2 debut. With his fellow artist's strengths in mind, Markley has always written specifically for the session, and "Tell the Truth" is no different. Composed to highlight the hard-swinging resumes of the rhythm section - with bassist Rodney Whitaker and drummer Kyle Swan - Markley pays tribute to the '60s Blue Note quintet sessions, but hands the usual trumpet role to guitarist Steve Kovalcheck, along with alto saxophonist Wil Swindler, running the front line. Deep grooves, sweet swing and dynamic interplay... This album is one of those sparkling, straight-ahead gems that can convert pop fans into jazz acolytes. - DOWNBEAT"Markley, his comping is exemplary, his solos as lyrical and logical as two of his role models, Cedar Walton and Bill Evans." All About Jazz