Mark Lockheart Group - In Deep

Edition Records: EDN1013
Released 2009

Mark Lockheart – saxophone
Dave Priseman – trumpet
Liam Noble - piano
Jasper Holby – bass
Dave Smith – drums

In Deep is an album of persuasive, modern-day jazz that in many ways defies classification, so many musical boundaries does it cross. Mark Lockheart has always been thus, as music from his former career with ‘Perfect Houseplants’, ‘Loose Tubes’ and ‘Polar Bear’ has shown and where it might be said that the seeds of this music were sown.

Mark seems to have it all down pat, with his exquisite, original compositions and arrangements that offer all members of the group a chance for individual improvisation, yet also encompass taut ensemble playing and group invention.

‘Surfacing’ is an extended piece that more than adequately demonstrates all of those facets, moving on from a quietly understated opening to a vivid ensemble section followed in turn by percussive piano from Liam Noble, vigorous, commanding sax work from Mark and a nimble-fingered touch in Jasper Holby’s bass solo.

Contrast this with ‘Sunday Soon’ a much more reflective and tranquil piece, driven precisely by the momentum of Dave Smith’s drumming. Here the piano is subtle, the bass ‘as lissome as a hazel wand’ (Tennyson) and Mark’s tenor chaste and balmy: the perfect ending to a golden hour.

Gorgeous.

Reviewed by

ken cheetham
2009