Jason Roberts

Pianist Marcus Roberts and his fine trio (with bassist David Grossman and drummer Jason Marsalis) perform a 14-song original suite on this CD that traces the ups and downs of a longterm love affair. Roberts, who is one of the more versatile of today's pianists, plays quite modern throughout the date while always swinging. The music is sometimes dramatic, at other times wistful or introspective, but rarely loses one's interest. It is doubtful if any of the themes will catch on as future standards (none of the melodies are all that memorable) but taken as a whole this is a thought-provoking and enjoyable set.

2012 collaboration between banjo virtuoso Bela Fleck and Jazz pianist Marcus Roberts and his trio. Roberts' Trio is known for its virtuosic style: a style that is strongly rhythmic, melodic, and filled with dynamic contrast. Fleck is often considered the premier banjo player in the world. He has virtually reinvented the image and the sound of the banjo through a remarkable performing and recording career that has taken him all over the musical map and on a range of solo projects and collaborations.

Of the iconic images of the 80’s decade in Rock n Roll, one that certainly stood the test of time is Alice Cooper’s then “Rambo-looking” guitar player shooting fires on the crowds from his M-80 shaped guitar.