The Antidote
On his third solo date, pianist Marc Cary explores unconventional ensemble settings while still delivering memorable melodies that resonate with everlasting splendor. Eschewing the usual rhythm setting, Cary is mostly featured in solo or duet performances, or at maximum with the open-ended ensemble of bass, saxophones, and percussion. Although the CD contains some rhythm-heavy songs, like the effervescent "Seven Principles," whose middle section faintly recallsRamsey Lewis's "Sun Goddess," and the mysterious "Sage,"The Antidoteis Cary at his most introspective. He solos beautifully on the rareDuke Ellingtoncomposition "Melancholia" and spellbinds magnificently on Erik Satie's "Gnossienne--1890." The CD's conceptual ambitions immediately bring to mind one of Cary's strongest influences,Herbie Hancock. Both pianists exhibit impressionistic flair bolstered by rhythmic agility. But Cary's compositions lack the originality of Hancock's and tend to sound like updated versions of other tunes. His "Chappaquitic Woman" sounds too much like "Caravan," "The Sage" sounds like a stolen page out ofRandy Weston's songbook, while "Mae'trix" may be one of the greatest Herbie Hancock songs that Hancock didn't write. Nevertheless,The Antidoteis worth listening to for a talented pianist with impeccable taste. --John Murph