Talent Worth the Name

Thanks a Million (Palmetto)

Steve Million

By Tim Roberts

Pianist Steve Million has put together a priceless team of musicians to bring you Thanks a Million, a ten-tune selection of subtle avant-garde be-bop and straight-ahead jazz. Backing Million is Randy Brecker on flugelhorn and trumpet, Chris Potter on saxapones, Michael Moore on acoustic bass, and Ron Vincent on drum.

On this follow-up to his debut release, Million to One, Million and his quintet work through a broad range of styles and moods. An added plus is that all the selections are soft and sublime and there is no blatant attempt by one musician to outplay the others. But the quintet is still able to swing with an easygoing pace.

With Thanks, Steve Million shows that there still is a reason to play straight-ahead jazz, even if it doesn't rehash old grooves. It is challenging for the performers and listeners. Even with the challenge, it politely asks for your attention, yet doesn't overwhelm you.