“Hoffman brings a light, fluid grace to his eloquent improvisations, the tone largely optimistic though shot through with an enquiring spirit which adds an intriguing melodic quirk to the disc.” – Gary Dalkin, editor, Film Music on the Web
Featuring: Marc Hoffman, composer/piano/vocals; Tim Gordon (Mr. Groove), sax; Grammy nominee John Sharp, guitar; Terry Peoples and Nathan Scott, bass; and Gray Fallin (The Brubakers), Ryan Scott and Mike Lanier; drums and percussion.
Cover art: Rain Parker
The CURIOSO project began as a compilation of various jazz tunes Hoffman wrote over two years, representing as many styles of jazz as there are tracks on the CD that he initially entitled “Jazz.” After excellent feedback, Hoffman decided to remix and re-master all tracks for wide release and to re-name the CD for his personal favorite in the collection, “Curioso..”
“Hoffman brings a light, fluid grace to his eloquent improvisations, the tone largely optimistic though shot through with an enquiring spirit which adds an intriguing melodic quirk to the disc.” – Gary Dalkin, editor, Film Music on the Web
Notes on the tracks:
Hefti: a tribute to Hoffman’s former composition teacher, the late, great Neal Hefti. "Heft is one of those great tunes that is instantly recognizable within 2-4 notes (of the opening lick) -- no easy achievement, and very satisfying!” -- Preston Ryback, composer, arranger, orchestrator, and owner of Shore Club Studios, Vancouver, BC
G Min: modern jazz swing. John Sharp guitar solo.
Introspective: reminiscent of David Benoit. Reflective, yet hopeful melody.
Aila Leya (AY-la) Hebrew: Oak tree/ (le-ya) Spanish: “the law”. The only vocal tune on the CD. Reminiscent of the jazz-rock of the late ‘70s, early ‘80s. Pat Metheny meets Bela Fleck meets Rick Wakeman.
Q – A lyrical dialogue and a tribute to the calm strength of “Quinn,” one of Hoffman’s piano students, who was battling a brain tumor.
Bender - When a close friend and native New Yorker died suddenly, Hoffman attempted to capture a dark, lonely street in NYC as a reflection of his sadness over his friend’s passing. A short chorale appears twice in the song along with a John Sharp guitar solo.
Theme #2 – “A rich melody through a series of brief variations which have the quality of classic Americana, from old-time hymns to Copland-esque expanse.” – Gary Dalkin
Thumbs – A “sassy, syncopated swagger and feather-light lilt” (Gary Dalkin) that started with a rhythm Hoffman spontaneously played on his desk, literally with his thumbs. A clavinet track is a throwback to ‘70s jazz.
Dog Days – “A very laid-back number, the relaxed guitar workout and electric piano moving into drive time-smooth jazz territory.” (Gary Dalkin). Features a sax solo by Tim Gordon.
Curioso – “An amiable stroll though classic piano, bass, drums, jazz trio territory” (Dalkin). Starts in ¾, then goes to a 4/4 swing. Repeats this once.
Pontified – Inspired by Hoffman’s appreciation for Jean Luc Ponty, especially his music from the late ‘70s to early ‘80s.
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