Icaros

Dominic Marshall Trio's latest album, "Icaros," is a whimsical journey through the realms of jazz that is as unpredictable as British weather. Marshall, along with his fellow musos - bassist Sam Vicary and drummer Sam Gardner - deliver a sonic experience that is part avant-garde, part toe-tapping swing. From the opening track, "Flight of the Albatross," Marshall's fingers dance across the keys with a finesse that would make even Thelonious Monk raise an eyebrow in approval. The trio's chemistry is undeniable, with Vicary's bass lines providing a solid foundation for Gardner's explosive drum fills. One of the standout tracks on the album is "Cloud Atlas," a mesmerizing blend of melodic motifs and frenetic improvisation that will have listeners reaching for their nearest beret and smoky jazz club. The trio's experimental approach to composition is truly a breath of fresh air in a genre that can sometimes feel stale and derivative. However, "Icaros" is not without its flaws. Occasionally, the trio veers into self-indulgence, with extended solos that may leave some listeners checking their watches. But overall, Marshall and his bandmates have crafted an album that is as daring as it is delightful. So grab a glass of your finest Scotch, sit back, and let the Dominic Marshall Trio take you on a musical odyssey that is truly out of this world.