String wizard Mike Marshall no doubt remembers when he was in his teens or twenties, and various musical mentors took him under their wings to provide guidance and tutelage. Of course, there's also the simple fun, reward and satisfaction of being able to say that you've helped young and gifted prodigies become discovered and directed towards long-lasting musical stardom. The new acoustic "Big Trio" collaboration of experienced veteran Marshall with up-and-comers Alex Hargreaves (violin) and Paul Kowert (bass) yields a bountiful reward emphasizing both spirited string expression and youthful exuberance. Mike Marshall lives up to his highly-acclaimed reputation for lyric, fluid playing full of tone and clarity on mandolin, mandocello and guitar. Mike hung out for a month with Alex and Paul to arrange these Marshall originals, with the exception of the intro to "Three Dragons" excerpted from a piece by Mikael Marin of the Swedish group, Vasen. On his own Adventure Music label, Marshall has previously released a full collaborative album with that group. If there's one primary observation about Big Trio's music, it's that all three of the nimble-fingered musicians play with individualism and fire. However, there's also a strong musical cohesion that belies their collective age or time together. Clever improvisations move from soothing and seductive lines to energetic and vigorous aesthetics. A fully-instrumental project such as Mike Marshall's Big Trio must be viewed in totality as an enchanting sonic journey of impressionistic virtuosity from beginning to end. All tastefully rendered, the amiable string conversations among three friends should be welcomed by all fans of exceptional musical creativity and panache. What a treat to see Mike Marshall partnering with and helping young talented musicians embark on their careers! We wouldn't expect any less from the stringed instrument phenom. I expect that Paul and Alex will be doing the very same in a few decades. (Joe Ross, Twentynine Palms, CA)
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These three have a harmonic and rhythmic dialog and point of view that feels both totally rooted and free as the wind. They have come together around some fantastic musical ideas and boy, is it ever together. The amazing improvisational and overall talent on display here is always in the service of lovely explorations that broaden and delight this listener.
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What a fabulous album! Classical meets bluegrass with sprinklings of jazz.
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