THE WAY WE PLAY
“Unlike Hill’s previous recordings, which focused on original music, The Way We Play features mostly jazz standards, but these have been reconceived according to Hill’s personal aesthetic. Familiar tunes by Herbie Hancock and Thelonious Monk and romantic ballads such as ‘My Foolish Heart’ and ‘Polka Dots and Moonbeams’ sound fresh, bright and immensely attractive in Hill’s hands. The front-line playing by Hill and longtime colleague Christopher McBride on alto saxophone proves instantly recognizable, while the vibraphone work of Justin ‘Justefan’ Thomas and the pulsing rhythms of drummer Makaya McCraven, bassist Joshua Ramos and guest percussionist Juan Pastor drive the music ever forward. In all, a major-label debut that Hill — and Chicago — can be proud of.”
Track Listing: Welcome / "Bulls Theme", The Way We Play / Minority, Prelude, Moon Rays, My Foolish Heart, Polka Dots And Moonbeams, Fly Little Bird Fly, Maiden Voyage, Straight No Chaser, Beep Durple, Juan’s Interlude, Smile
Personnel: Marquis Hill: Trumpet; Brett Williams: Fender Rhodes; Junius Paul: Bass; Makaya McCraven: Drums.
Released: 2017
