In Honor of the Duke
Marcus Roberts is known for his stately, studied approach to the jazz tradition. His recordings ofEllington,Jelly Roll Morton,Monk,Gershwin, andJoplinall bear the formal, scholarly stamp of his playing. On this, Roberts composed all the material, so these are not renditions of standards but rather Roberts's take on the Duke. That said, Roberts's playing here is exceptional, and the compositions gracefully exhibit his knowledge of Ellingtonian compositional themes. This music is elegant--almost to the point of sounding like a classical pianist is at the keys--yet still has that suave, cool groove that characterized Ellington's work. With solid support from drummer Jason Marsalis and lyrical, inventive work from bassist Roland Guerin,In Honor of Dukeis a fitting tribute--one that pays its respects, yet still forges new ground.--S. Duda