Full Review

Marilyn Scott, The Landscape Review

Marilyn Scott is a contemporary jazz vocalist and composer that has released her thirteenth album as a leader titled The Landscape via Blue Canoe Records. The GRAMMY-nominated singer 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.” Joining Scott on the album is an outstanding collection of fusion musicians: Scott Kinsey, Gary Novak, Russell Ferrante, Vinnie Colaiuta, Jimmy Haslip, Steve Khan, and Alex Acuña, among others. In addition, the album contains seven original compositions.

Built on a profoundly funky groove, “Thrown out into Space, Butterfly” opens the album. Scott’s lyrics are storytelling and filled with meaningful kernels of knowledge. Scott co-wrote the song with Kinsey (keyboards), and the two are supported by Haslip’s (bass) and Novak’s (drums) solid groove. “The Landscape” continues our journey of interesting lyrics set to hip harmonic and melodic figures by Scott and Kinsey.

“Irreplaceable” is a collaboration between Scott, Ferrante, and Kinsey. The intimate groove is built by Haslip and Colaiuta (drums) as Ferrante plays piano, Kinsey is on keyboards, and guitarist Michael Landau provides tasty warm fills and a rousing solo. Scott’s lyrics paint compelling and profound meanings that cover the issues of today’s world.

“The Sun” closes the project with a powerful composition by Scott and Ferrante. Joining the ensemble is the background vocals and sounds of The Perri Sisters. Haslip and Jimmy Branly (drums) develop a relaxed groove augmented by the light percussion of Alex Acuña. The swaying melody spins out another stunning collection of lyrics by Scott as her expressive vocal style delivers the theme with elegance and personality.

Marilyn Scott strikes that rare balance between meaningful lyricists and sophisticated melodicists. The seven songs on The Landscape is a project with Scott co-writing with today’s finniest fusion composers. The various ensembles breathe life into the music and support Scott’s storytelling lyrics with beautiful sounds, textures, and feels. The Landscape will appeal to fusion lovers and anyone that appreciates well-written lyrics with powerful messages dealing with today’s topics. That’s the short of it!