Marc Cary Focus Trio: Four Directions

Four Directions
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Artist: Marc Cary Focus Trio
Genre: Jazz
Label: Motéma

Keyboard polyglot Marc Cary neatly anticipates any accusations of dilettantism with the title of his trio's second studio album for trailblazing NYC indie label Motéma. Four directions (at least) are represented in this generously eclectic set from the New York native. But whether Cary is tearing up the electronic universe, dancing across the keys of a Fender Rhodes, or pounding on an acoustic piano, a common thread runs through his compositions: a dense, multi-layered texture, reminiscent of Jason Moran or Robert Glasper, which hints at underlying complexity without overwhelming the listener with technique. Percussionist Sameer Gupta and bassists Burniss Travis and Rashaan Carter are much more than supporting characters, but Cary is the prime focus of this powerhouse trio. marccary.com

Cormac Larkin

Cormac Larkin

Cormac Larkin, a contributor to The Irish Times, is a musician, writer and director