Album Review: Soft Light from Mark Scott III

Album:  Soft Light
Artist:  Mark Scott III
Label Name: Miller Three Publishing
Artist Website: https://markscottiii.com
Soundcloud Link: https://soundcloud.com/mark-scott-419586889/sets/soft-light

Mark Scott III is a jazz guitarist based out of Austin, Texas.   He makes his debut as the leader of a jazz trio with their recording Soft Light from Miller Three Publishing.  Joined by bass player Ben Triesch and drummer Mike Gordon, Scott composed a suite of original compositions dedicated to his loved one that have passed away and to those who are alive, celebrating the joy that life offers.  His music is softly lit, and his melodic prose projects a sentimentality and vulnerability that bonds with listeners.

The tracks chronicle pieces of Scott's journey to adulthood, demonstrating a maturity that is laudable.  His thoughts and emotions are channeled into the rustling of his chords.  The listener is a spectator along the ride as Scott intimates a range of human conditions from sorrow to joy.  His improvisations emote a sensitivity that invites the listener into his world, showcasing the depth of his voice.  

Starting off with the tranquil mood of "Carpals," his riffs promulgate a sense of hope and perseverance, following with the pensive silhouettes circling "Food Court."  Moving on, “Rhythm-Ding” is a whimsical and swinging homage to Thelonious Monk’s “Rhythm-A-Ning,” showcasing Scott’s appreciation for Monk’s unique style.  There is a playful vibe in the track that turns reflective in “News Blues,” which includes an emotive solo from Mike Gordon's brushed strokes, having a calming effect on the listener.  

“Sneak Peak” is a burst of energy, expressing a celebratory vibe while the funky rhythm of "Monster Beat" moves with the wandering musings of Scott's guitar, creating a terrain that is in a continuous state of flux.  The ethereal sonorous of “Soft Light” evokes solace and introspection, shifting to the ambling tempo of “Smile," underscored by the balmy rustle of Scott's chords. “Warmth” wields a leisurely waltz, and "Tomorrow" emotes optimism with the upbeat pulse in the chord patterns.  The closing track "The Sun Behind A Cloud" leaves the listener with a sense of hope and endurance.

Mark Scott holds a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas and a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. He currently works as a professor at Tarleton State University, where he directs Jazz Ensemble II, maintains a studio of guitarists, and teaches a Popular Music in America course.  Scott's ability to transcribe his journey into music bonds with the listener on a metaphysical level, leaving the listener with a sense of hope and perseverance.

Musicians:
Mark Scott: guitar
Ben Triesch: bass
Mike Gordon: drums