 Guitarist
Matt Marshak’s third disc is one with lots
to offer. It’s a breath of fresh air in a time
when so many are sounding alike. He writes as well
as produces all fourteen cuts here with nice production qualities
throughout. On board are talented musicians from many
of today’s top bands. The mix keeps it all interesting,
and there’s a lot here to offer most everyone.
Groovosphere gets
started nicely with an up-tempo melody called “New
York Avenue.” It
has that Second Avenue feel to it or a New York jazz club
on the east side. The repetitive chorus is addictive and
creates a playground for Marshak’s guitar. Tower
of Power’s David Mann adds a lot of good sax work to
spice this opener. “Montauk Moon” opens
as a reflective tune with Matt on acoustic. The bass
line picks up the pace slightly and punches this one down
the New York coast. Mann’s soprano offers the third
voice and plays off the acoustic and bass. “Always” is
pure chill and features the vocals of De’adre Aziza. The
sound is dark with light edges of keyboard. Matt’s
guitar plays through the mix and is a major contributor to
the chorus.
“Summerfunk” is the one you’re probably
hearing a lot right now. It’s the first single,
and after hearing it you understand why. Horn syncopated
riffs along with driving bass make this the perfect ride
for Marshak’s fat guitar. This one should carry
the artist to the next level and is catchy with just enough
punch to make you want more. “Windchill Factor” has
a New York chill sound to it. There’s a lot going
on outside Matt’s guitar with added voices of keyboards
and drum programming. They are a nice mix that gives
a modern sound to the cut. “Across The Pond” is
heavily laden with a techno programming bass line that serves
as a layered background to catchy guitar riffs. “Could
It Be You” is another catchy one that will be a head
bopper this summer at his shows. Vocals intertwine throughout
with Matt’s guitar and the strong bass of Kenny Harris. The
fun continues on into “Summertime.” It
has the same mix of vocals and guitar. Mario Cruz’ sax
plays between the two.
The haunting “Big Skye Dream” plays reference
to the Montana wilderness and the desire to go there. Marshak’s
guitar reverberates through most of this one along with some
crafty programming. Touches of flute and sax spice
the mix. “Mood Man” jumps off the page
and sounds like a great live number with the horns taking
the early lead giving way to Marshak’s guitar. Tim
Reguisis’ bass drives most of this one. The chorus
is a melodic little ditty that you’ll be humming long
after this one is finished. The totally solo piece entitled “Honestly” closes
out the disc.
As many people who have seen this artist
open for Peter White, Spyro Gyra or Stanley Jordan can attest,
the third time could be the charm for this New York native. You
can catch him at the Capital Jazz Challenge at the Capital
Jazzfest this month. Groovosphere is
a step in the right direction, and there’s a lot here
to like. Be sure to find a copy soon.
- Harvey Cline
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