Album Review
Septology is an expanded version of the Marriott Jazz Quintet, adding the reeds of Rob Davis and Mark Taylor to the basic ensemble. Co-led by brothers Thomas and David Marriott, the group's second album is based on the opening chapter of the Book of Genesis from the Bible. Composed and arranged by David Marriott, the seven tracks capture with jazz music each day of God's labor in creating the world, before resting on the seventh day. Given the thematic source for the composition, it is not surprising that the music increases in anticipation as God completes each of the tasks. At the same time, tautness does not override the sense of melody built into each of the seven segments. The composer David Marriott sees this occasion not only as solemn, but joyous. "On the Third Day" celebrates the making of day and night through the placement of a sun and moon in the heavens, and is acclaimed with freewheeling swing. Featured on the track are the trumpet and trombone of Thomas and David Marriott, respectively, backed by on-the-mark piano of John Hansen with punctuating rim shots and drum rolls by Jon Wikan. Scattered among the swinging rhythms are some dissonant exchanges among the players, adding contrast to this long 11-minute track. There's even a nod to the blues on "On the Fourth Day," led by David Marriott's tailgate trombone with the whole group joining in a New Orleans swing-along. Finally, the seventh day, the day of rest, is reached, which is described musically with serene satisfaction. This track features some of the best ensemble work on the album. A highly accomplished performance by outstanding musicians from that jazz-fertile northwest U.S. area, this album is recommended.
