MARILYN SCOTT — The Landscape (review)

MARILYN SCOTT — The Landscape album cover Album · 2022 · Vocal Jazz Buy this album from MMA partners
4/5 ·
Carmel
The Landscape is Marilyn Scott’s thirteenth album as a leader, in which she is joined by her closest friends to collaborate on her most profound truths through seven compositions. Scott expands, “The Landscape project grew out of listening to myself and others with life’s frustrations and concerns. One of the only outlets I know of is putting yourself in front of nature and letting go. These elements of life, precious and surreal, give answers if we embrace and nurture our surroundings. With The Landscape, I addressed places to put yourself and add an appreciation of the moment, no matter where you are. I find it more difficult at times to find that peace, but it’s right in front of you, right outside your door, in the street and alleys of your wilderness. Let’s protect nature, and she will help you find your breath.”

The title track exemplifies Scott’s fantastic lyric writing, venturing into developing stylistic fusion territory. Co-written with Scott Kinsey, the combination of stunning lyrics paired with the harmonic mutability of the music pushes an expressive musical experience. Kinsey’s explosive synths and Gary Novak’s command of the drum set builds the song dramatically. Scott’s vocals have warmth and elegance and beckon you to listen to the lyrics. She beacons fans of mainstream fusion to listen with purpose as she contours the music with passion and understanding of phrasing.

“Unzip” is a collaboration between Scott and Russell Ferrante with a swaying Latin feel to support the memorable melody. Scott’s husky and melodious voice exhibits the kind of breath control only the most technically skilled singers can achieve as she effortlessly sings the many lyrics and wide intervals of the melody. The ensemble builds a great Latin groove, and Ferrante’s keyboard solo is terrific. The joy of the music matches the sentiment in Scott’s lyrics to “Unzip, Unwind.”

The Landscape is a fusion project with a rare combination of beautifully written lyrics and melodies paired with outstanding ensemble playing and solos. This set of original music has depth in the sounds of the longstanding American Fusion tradition, especially for vocalists.
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