We are thrilled to be able to offer a new Sound Lab entry from true progressive mandolin royalty, Jamie Masefield from the pioneer jam band "The Jazz Mandolin Project." From the JMP website: "Since 1993, Jamie Masefield's Jazz Mandolin Project has been offering an entirely new concept of what the mandolin can do. Pushing the boundaries with a new innovative sound, "JMP" has toured throughout the US and internationally with a unique approach that has changed the mind of many as to the instruments potential. JazzTimes columnist, Bill Milkowski, concurs, writing in May 2000, " Like Mandolinists Mike Marshall and David Grisman before him, Jamie Masefield is challenging notions of what that stringed instrument--forever associated with folk and bluegrass music--can do."

We've been especially captivated by his recent work in a jazz trio with MaMaVig. Ma=Jamie Masefield, Ma=Gary Mazzaroppi (bass), Vig=Frank Vignola (guitar), and this intimate ensemble setting allows Maseield to strut his incredible jazz chops with two other amazing premier musicians.

Jamie has graced us with a terrific chord melody version of "Yes, I'll Always Be There," a concept song from the "Getting Into Jazz Mandolin Book" that explores advanced shifting Tonal Center studies. You can also hear another interpretation from Don Stiernberg in our PROFESSIONALS SOUND LAB; both are excellent but diverse versions, performed beautifully.

Enjoy audio:
Jamie Masefield Yes, I'll Always Be There

More artist interpretations.

Artist's websites:
JMP
MaMaVig

Posted by Ted at December 21, 2008 10:57 AM