Genre(s): Progressive Jazz
http://rustyburge.com

Rusty Burge beats to a different drum. Or, in this case, to a vibraphone. The Ohio-based mallet jazz artist has just released “Illumination,” the follow-up album to his critically acclaimed debut, “Contrast.” Given his instrumentation of choice, Burge is slightly off the mainstream. And “slightly” refers to the fact that Burge’s music is actually more accessible than one would think. True, a percussion-oriented style such as Burge’s is absent from many jazz radio stations; however, much of “Illumination” is carried by a strong sense of melody that transcends its seemingly avant-garde roots.

The title track would’ve made a fine score to a film-noir drama. Kim Pensyl’s trumpet gives it a seedy vibe, adding another thick layer of atmosphere to Burge’s playful vibraphone and Mike Sharfe’s enigmatic bass. From the beginning Burge has his hooks in us already; it doesn’t take much to fully reel us in. By the second cut, the chiming “Not Far,” Burge continues the hypnotic spell of his vibraphone. There is something fresh about it, a quality in hearing an instrument not commonly utilized. But Burge knows how to explore its potential, to paint images with it, as on the translucent “Ithaca.” The introspective “Reflection” has the emotional weight of a ballad. These are real songs and not instrumental doodling from a master of his craft.

Burge allows his fellow musicians time in the sunlight as well. On “Waltz for Tomorrow (Live),” Steve Hoskins’ gorgeously soulful soprano sax takes center stage and pretty much keeps it. It’s not a surprise that Burge is a professor at Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. The title of the album refers to enlightenment, and that’s what this record does. Did you ever imagine that a vibraphone could stir feelings within you? Let Burge show you the way.