An album I’ve been enjoying in recent times is drummer Mark Lockett’s ‘Swings and Roundabouts’, due to be released on 1 February 2023 (Mark hooked me up with a preview copy). The album was recorded in New York City in July 2022, and features the stellar lineup of Matt Penman (bass) Duane Eubanks (trumpet) David Binney (alto saxophone) tearing it up on nine of Mark’s compositions.
I hadn’t listened to alto saxophonist David Binney in quite some time, and it served as a reminder of what serious chops he has at his disposal. It's not my favourite type of playing, but the contrast between Binney and trumpeter Duane Eubanks’ stripped back, less notey approach is something that appeals to me.
There are some hints at the music of Ornette Coleman (and one tune is dedicated to him). Some of Mark’s compositions have a playfulness akin to Ornette (see "The Crib" and "Rhubarb Crumble"), but ‘Swings and Roundabouts’ isn’t overtly Ornette-y. “Virtual Reality” with its Witch Hunt-esque phrase had me chuckle as I was anticipating Elvin’s fill that didn’t eventuate.
Duane Eubanks' ‘bubbly/spluttery’ sound (for lack of better words... but I’m using that descriptor as a positive!) hints a little bit at Don Cherry, and his approach as an improviser really suits the feel of the album. I really haven't listened to much of Eubanks, and this album serves as a reminder that I need to seek out more of his work (the only other album I have featuring Eubanks is Bill McHenry's 'Sonic Pressure', which also has Matt on bass, it's about time I dusted that one off).
Matt’s woody tone
and melodicism is a great fit for the
album. I particularly have been enjoying his unaccompanied solo on
“Rhubarb Crumble”, and “Here’s to Ornette” with Mark on
brushes is fine too. Actually all his is playing hits the spot, and as I write I'm digging his up tempo walking lines on "Level 4". Side
note on bass tones (disclaimer: I don’t play bass so what do I
know): One thing that is a bit too common out here in NZ at times are bass
players with ‘ampy’ sounds. It’s a pet peeve of mine. Listen to
Matt.... great sound.
In many ways, Mark takes bit of a back seat. I’m not sure I would have picked it was a drummer led session - and that’s kind of refreshing – the focus is on the music and taking care of business rather than showy, bloated drums. More often than not Mark's playing is understated (especially by contemporary jazz standards). And even when he is featured blowing over the vamp on "G T" or the trades on "Happy Go Lucky" things never get carried away. It’s bit of an old school, tasty approach that I appreciate, but don’t always hear that much.
So
if you fancy treating yourself, head over to
Thick Records and dine out on ‘Swings and Roundabouts’. And to
support the release, Mark will be touring in New Zealand during
February, so be sure to get and support him. Joining Mark will be Roger Manins (sax) James Guilford (trpt) and Dan Yeabsley (bass). I'm keen to hear how the different personnel tackle Mark's music.
2 February, New Plymouth, 4th Wall
3 February, Whanganui, Savage Club
4 February, Hamilton, Nivara Lounge
8 February, Auckland, Anthology Lounge
9 February, Wellington, Moon1
10 February, Nelson, Fairfield House
11 February, Picton, Le Cafe
16 February, Christchurch, Space Academy
17 February, Dunedin, Playhouse Theatre
