Eli Marcus CD Resolution

Eli Marcus, a Los Angeles native, released his first album in July shortly after graduating from the renowned Berklee College of Music. All of his compositions show polar diversity as he explores the contemporary rock, jazz and R&B genres. Accompanied by Bryan Parks, Vivek Patel, Serghio Jansen, Massimo Buonanno, and Pasquale Strizzi; Resolution is an album sure to set a new kind of standard for today’s young bassist.

The album starts with an appropriately titled intro track called “Dawn’” which supplies an ambient set-up, filled to the brim with solid groove and spiralling melodies. With Eli’s soulful approach to modern fusion, he introduces a new sound to bass heavy music. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that fans as diverse as those of Erykah Badu and Hadrien Feraud would both find equal enjoyment in Resolution. The title track “Resolution” and “Bloemenmarkt” help spice things up, with their beefy solos and seriously fat beats. By the time the first ballad “In Your Eyes” comes along, you will be ready for Bryan Parks (vocoder/sax) lyrical seugeway into a heart melting bass solo followed by Pasquale Strizzi taking it away on keys. Ladies, if these gentlemen can’t seduce you, then it can’t be done.

After the audience has been totally romanced, Eli and Massimo sneak back into a slammin groove that once again showcases chops and musicality. At the climax of the album “ZZyzx” and “Mulcher” emulate a Weather Report-esque feel meanwhile Serghio Jansen masters the art of “epic guitar solos”. Aside from the rock and jazz foundation the underlying element of old school hip hop/RnB is brought to light on the second ballad entitled “Then And Now”. With Vivek Patel on trumpet, the melody is delivered in a way that would make Roy Hargrove proud.
Listening to this album straight through is a serious joy ride. “Resolution” is both totally accessible to the untrained ear and a thrill to the modern musician. Two thumbs up!

Bryan Parks-Sax
Vivek Patel-Trumpet
Pasquale Strizzi-Keys
Serghio Jansen-Guitar
Massimo Buonanno- Drums