Ulterior Motif

Mat Marucci is a veteran percussionist deserving of wider recognition. Utilizing a strong quartet with either Doug Webb or John Tchicai, who both double on soprano and tenor saxes, Marucci keeps things interesting with his crisp brushwork and a wide variety of material. Highlights include his original pulsating, post-bop title track and a haunting version of Billy Strayhorn’s “Blood Count,” featuring Tchicai’s suitably maudlin tenor sax. The only disappointment is the inclusion of Sheryl Crow’s huge pop hit “All I Wanna Do”; despite Marucci’s best efforts, this lame song doesn’t have enough of a melody to serve as a convincing jazz vehicle. – Ken Dryden