Album Notes

The EP Next Time showcases some of the many ambitious directions guitarist Mark Mollica has been heading in recent years. Issa, the opener, is an extended form showing his fascination with bringing the harmonic and melodic devices unique to the guitar into the jazz format, utilizing open strings and independence of line. It also displays the influence of fingerstylists such as Michael Hedges as well as his years accompanying singer-songwriters. Teacher dives more into a driving, swinging feel, utilizing a very clear melodic line over a constantly shifting modality. This track features the playing of veteran tenor saxophonist Fred Scerbo, as well as a brief solo from drummer Vinnie Sperrazza. Another extended composition, the title track Next Time takes the album into a different zone in which Mollica overdubs himself to form a guitar quintet. The piece is very sectional and tiered, changing feels throughout, though always evoking a pensive mood. The Sam Rivers modern classic Beatrice starts with a brief guitar intro, then duet with Scerbo, into what might be labeled the most “straight-ahead” selection on the album, and, like Teacher, features the entire quartet. Closing the EP is the Monk classic Round Midnight, given a loving treatment showing Mollica’s obvious affinity for solo playing.

Personnel:
Mark Mollica - guitar
Fred Scerbo - tenor sax
Henry Lugo - bass
Vinnie Sperrazza - drums