Storybook
JMARQ, 2023
8/10
The trumpeter and composer Markus Rutz returns with a 6th studio effort, where he’s joined by an excellent cast for the autobiographical listen that incorporates the modern day sounds of Chicago.
“Somethings’s Blowing In” starts the listen with Rutz’s soulful trumpet alongside Kurt Schweitz’s strategic bass, as much attention is paid to mood, and it isn’t long until the Adrian Ruiz’s warm keys and Kyle Ashe’s skilled drums complement Rutz’s elegant brass on “The Everyday Escapades Of M&M”.
Elsewhere, “Third Coasting” welcomes Sharel Cassity’s graceful saxophone to the timeless, rich jazz textures, while “Buffalo” benefits much from Samuel Peters’ very agile bass that meshes well with the dynamic and expressive brass.
Deeper yet, “Soul Eyes” recruits a stirring intimacy that showcases Rutz’s very eloquent trumpet prowess in a poetic demeanor, and “Right At Home” exits with strong interaction between the rhythm section amid Rutz’s glowing horn.
Rutz is heavily influenced by legends like Miles Davis, Kenny Dorham, Ellis Marsalis, Mal Waldron and Lil Hardin, and this well crafted mix of standards and originals is yet another excellent body of work that all fans of jazz will enjoy.