Two further ballets from the Marsalis stable, and is the works reviewed before, nothing is fundamentally different from what we've come to expect from this source lately. These include some freer expositions of the jazz themes that are so popular with Marsalis and there is certainly much to enjoy for that type of music enthusiast. 'Sweet Release' contains much gimmickry and hulaballoo, mostly due to the definite Creole origins of the piece, a classic example of Negro musicianship, that is, purely inimitable. I'm still astounded by the virtuosity of the whole group with some wonderful playing from Marsalis himself. 'Ghost Story' is more sinister, more daredevil, here we have a smaller ensemble with piano, saxophone, Bass and drums accompanying the composer. This is pure jazz 'jamming' with the sensual sinister notes of the saxophone mingling with the skeletal and rasping sounds of the snare drums and piano, a highly obnoxious cocktail. I don't think that there is anything classical in all this but the crossover from rigid style to the free unhurried unbuttoned jazz is certainly refreshing. I'm sure that many will snap up this release just to listen to Marsalis' resounding virtuosity and his partners are also big names. Ultimately a matter of taste then but worth a listen. Reviewer Gerald Fenech	Reviewer Gerald Fenech Reviews from previous months Reviews carry sales links but you can also purchase from:
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