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The debut album from the Midwest-based Heartland Trio showcases a well-developed band sound and thoughtful compositions and arrangements from each member, honed over a year of workshopping and touring. The album’s strong melodies and grooves are complemented by improvisatory introductions. Each member of the group shapes the music: tenor saxophonist Barclay Moffitt is a commanding, yet sensitive voice throughout; bassist Hannah Marks’ playing is a tour de force, augmented by her pure, wordless vocals; drummer Rocky Martin lends an adventurous and driving feel to the music. The group’s vast amount of disparate influences coalesce for a refreshing debut on Year One.
“Constantly creative, intelligently arranged and often grounded in groove, this is one of the most engaging albums I’ve listened to in a while. The trio draws from an incredible amount of unlikely influences and sounds like a BAND with a clear direction and a very distinct voice." — Walter Smith III, tenor saxophonist and composer.
“...a very well integrated trio. The drive is deep, the grooves are crushing, and the spectrum of colors is vivid. It’s fully captivating, and if I played tenor, I’d want to play it like this. The voice is a beautiful and effective touch.” — Greg Osby, alto saxophonist and composer.
“Constantly creative, intelligently arranged and often grounded in groove, this is one of the most engaging albums I’ve listened to in a while. The trio draws from an incredible amount of unlikely influences and sounds like a BAND with a clear direction and a very distinct voice." — Walter Smith III, tenor saxophonist and composer.
“...a very well integrated trio. The drive is deep, the grooves are crushing, and the spectrum of colors is vivid. It’s fully captivating, and if I played tenor, I’d want to play it like this. The voice is a beautiful and effective touch.” — Greg Osby, alto saxophonist and composer.
