Spheres
Self-Released, 2023
8/10
The multi-instrumentalist Scott Emmerman is joined by Marty Zevin and Larry Nelson for these 10 tracks that are full of jazz fusion fun.
The precise attention to atmosphere of the title track starts the listen with Emmerman’s skilled guitar alongside Zevin’s fluid drums for the atypical jazz climate, and “Roanoke” follows with Nelson’s warm keys adding much grace to the rich guitar progressions.
Landing in the middle is the thicker presence of “Return To Rogers Park”, where Emmerman’s diverse guitar prowess won’t go unnoticed, while “California Roll” is a more cautious moment of radiant guitar, playful keys and frisky drumming.
Further still, the chunky bass bouts of “Winning Time” carries some animated, cinematic ideas, and “Yearning For Your Love” exits with a cozy buzzing and no lack of grooves that suits the soulful spirit.
A listen that explores rock, swing, funk, world music and, of course, jazz, all the selections are fleshed out with much charm, as Emmerman’s 60+ years of guitar playing has certainly paid off.
Travels well with: Three Story Sandbox- Artful Dodgers; Steven Snyder Trio- Prime Vintage