(Concord Jazz)

Marquis Hill is one of the most compelling voices on the trumpet today. On The Way We Play, his debut recording for Concord Jazz, he pays tribute to the jazz standards and American songbook classics that informed his development as a musician. The result is a engaging brew of times. Not content with a simple recitation of the songs, Hill adds contemporary rhythms, as well as a bit of spoken word to the music that add somewhat different colors and feel to the compositions, while keeping the essence of the originals. The eclectic menu includes songs by Horace Silver, Donald Byrd, Jimmy Van Heusen and Johnny Burke, Thelonious Monk, Gigi Gryce and Herbie Hancock. Joining the 29-year old Chicagoan on this effort is his core quintet of alto saxophonist Christopher McBride, vibraphonist Justin Thomas, drummer Makaya McCraven and bassist Joshua Ramos. Trombonist Vincent Gardner and percussionist Juan Pastor lend their great talents to the project. Vocalists Christie Dashiell and Meagan McNeal are stellar on their respective appearances as well. Mr. Hill delivers again.