Marc Hoffman Trio

Late September

The music on pianist-composer Marc Hoffman’s fourth CD, Late September, often sounds as if it could serve as a soundtrack, either for films or for one’s thoughts. As it turns out, in his career Hoffman has written music for films and plays in addition to works for pop and gospel music. In recent times he has shifted his focus to melodic jazz where his originals are impossible to categorize.

Hoffman’s Late September features 11 of his compositions performed by the leader on piano, either Zack Page or Nathan Scott on bass and Brian Sullivan or Ryan Scott on drums. One song apiece also includes either Tim Gordon on flute or trumpeter Jon Thornton but the emphasis throughout is on Hoffman’s trio, with the bass and drums sounding like a logical outgrowth of the leader’s distinctive piano.

Late September begins with “Deeper” which sounds like something that Dave Brubeck might have written in his later years. The piece, which has Gordon’s flute uplifting the ensembles, is impressionistic yet swinging. The optimistic and energetic “Melon Collie” and the harmonically advanced yet playful “G Waltz” follow.

“Last Walk” has a dignified but not pompous theme on which Thornton’s trumpet is a strong asset. “Curioso,” which starts out as a jazz waltz before becoming a romp in 4/4 time, is dedicated to the San Francisco jazz scene of the late 1950s. “Intro” features Nathan Scott’s bass and segues into “Last September,” a lyrical and picturesque piece that shifts halfway through to 5/4 time. “Mulgroove” is the most soulful and catchy song on the disc, and it is quite danceable. “Dejado Vaya” has a strong forward-momentum and some hot piano riffs while also sounding relaxed and taking its time. “Sambanova” is an infectious bossa-nova waltz with a particularly likable melody and concise solos by bassist Page and drummer Sullivan. Late September concludes with “Time Goes On,” a wistful melody that both treasures the present and looks forward to the future with hope.

Marc Hoffman’s originals on Late September are melodic and peaceful but also contain their share of subtle creativity. Together they create a musical travelogue that is a trip well worth taking.

Scott Yanow, jazz journalist/historian and author of 11 books including The Great Jazz Guitarists, Jazz On Film and Jazz On Record 1917-76