March 7, 2019
Marcus Printup gained his initial recognition for his playing with pianist Marcus Roberts’ group. His second Blue Note recording as a leader features his attractive trumpet in a quintet with Roberts, the Paul Gonsalves-inspired tenor of Stephen Riley, bassist Reuben Rogers and the young drummer Jason Marsalis. Printup at this point already had a fairly orignal sound of his own which was slightly influenced by Wynton Marsalis. His technique is impressive on the date as is his warmth and consistently creative ideas. Printup contributed seven mostly straightahead originals to the well-rounded and continually interesting modern mainstream set (including the brooding ballad “When Forever Is Over,” athe catchy “Leave Your Name And Number” and the funky title cut). “M & M,” a major/minor blues duet with pianist Roberts which looks back to the 1920’s, is a definite highlight. Printup also performs jazz standards by Miles Davis (a swinging “Dig”), Benny Golson and Wayne Shorter along with an emotional version of the traditional “Amazing Grace.” This CD gives one an excellent sampling of Marcus Printup’s hard bop-oriented playing. ~ Scott Yanow
