Classy, classic jazz breezily blows through as the Joe Syrian Motor City Jazz Octet delivers a luxurious full sound with “Secret Message.” The band embraces effortless cool with the interplay, feeling outright inspired. An expansiveness takes place with a driving rhythm befitting the Motor City, adding to the audio’s allure. Horns, piano, upright bass, and drums combine to create a swirling, evolving series of grooves. Laid on top of those are sparkling melodies, as the piano works twofold as a rhythmic and melodic component. Even the upright bass has an expressiveness that adds to the sound’s immersive presence.
“Bye Bye, Blackbird” blooms with a fantastic piano lead, and the rest of the band follows. Upon getting into full swing, the song is nimble, always retaining a bright, airy quality. Drum work has a steady backbone with the persistent backbone of “Star Eyes.” Vocals give a sense of poetry to “People Make The World Go Round,” featuring hopefulness. The lyricism is a celebration of community and the power of people together. Reflective to its core is the genteel “Here, There and Everywhere.” “Don’t You Worry About a Thing” has a tropical flavor, letting the sly bass line carry the weight. Noir vibes run through “This Masquerade.” A reassuring presence saunters in the relaxing “Night and Day.” Closing things on a gleeful note is “I Should Care.”
On “Secret Message,” the Joe Syrian Motor City Jazz Octet embraces jazz’s best bits, with improvised flourishes amongst a solid, gorgeous structure.
https://joesyrianmotorcityjazzoctet.com/motor-city-quartet
https://www.circle9music.com/artists/joe-syrian
