Egan, Mark: Cross Currents

Bassist Mark Egan needs no introduction, he’s been a premiere bassist over the past five decades, having played on countless recordings with artists such as Roger Daltry, Sting, John McLaughlin and most notably as a member of the Pat Metheny Group. Rounding out the trio is guitarist Shane Theriot (Musical Director for Live from Daryl’s House) and drummer Shawn Pelton (30 year veteran of the Saturday Night Live Band), both have extensive resumes. The title of the album Cross Currents is meant to convey the many worlds of experiences that Egan has internalized and brought to life on this recording. In addition, Egan states: “The intent of this recording was to capture the interplay and energy of the trio and orchestrate it by adding additional guitars, bass and percussion to enhance what the songs were calling for.�

When you pull a CD off the shelf you have taken into account your mood, and processing what you want to hear based on that feeling. As a reviewer, you are listening to music for the first time, and honestly may not always be in sync with what is coming out of those speakers. Thankfully, this fell into my rotation at just the right time. It's chilled-out vibe and tasteful playing was exactly what I needed to hear today. The opening “Ponchatrain� has a wonderful vibe, acoustic guitar and bass are churning over a shuffle, it’s earthy, and enhanced by Egan’s wonderful tone. The electric guitar and volume swells add the perfect atmosphere. Theriot’s playing is tasteful throughout; he’s an excellent guitarist and puts his stamp on this song and throughout the entire disc. The acoustic slide in “Gulf Stream� adds a nice touch to counter Egan’s lead work, at times rootsy with a bit of funk injected. The title track adds more funk flavor, and impactful unison lines, and the solo sections for both Egan and Theriot feel like they came out of a jam, and I meant that in a good way, a great feel is captured. In fact, much of this feels organic, just three guys playing together until something cool rises to the surface, and a song is born.

Egan states he spent nine months composing and arranging these compositions, and the intent was to make atmospheric pads to create a backdrop to improvise over. If you want some beautiful atmosphere, look no further than “Big Sky�, one of the best to be found here. In addition, the band took various ideas to orchestrate and expand the material. Egan and Pelton lock in tight on “Pocket Call� (in the pocket for sure) while Theriot is given carte blanche to tear it up. I probably haven’t mentioned Pelton enough here, but he is rock solid, and adds inflections and intricate touches where they are needed. “Sand Castles� features some beautiful bass playing, and Theriot channels some Hendrix-influenced rhythm work, maybe a nod to the song title? The closing two tracks are brief Egan solo showcases.

These three players work so well together and have captured a certain air that works, but I would not necessarily describe it as easy listening music. It has depth that keeps me engaged and imagining how enjoyable this must have been to be a part of. In closing, let me also add that this is an amazing-sounding recording, the instruments are crystal clear. I can’t say if there are plans to tour, but I certainly hope they will continue to work and record together, I would gladly welcome more music from these guys!

Track List:
1. Ponchatrain
2. Gulf Stream
3. Cross Currents
4. Big Sky
5. Pocket Call
6. Homebrew
7. Sunflower
8. Roll With It
9. Nonc Rodell
10. Sand Castles
11. Eastern Blue
12. For Lew Soloff with Love
13. Ode to Jaco

Added: January 11th 2024
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artist Website
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Language: english

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