Melody Reimagined - Book 1

Jason Marsalis, the consummate drummer turned mallet-master, returns with Melody Reimagined: book 1 the first in a series that finds the New Orleans-born phenom in his element writing, producing, and arranging all original music that is deeply informed by not only the rich tradition of jazz, but a wide understanding and appreciation of music in general. The youngest member of and NEA Jazz Master with his musical family, Marsalis has proven his genius and dedication to the art form of jazz by first establishing himself as a world class drummer, and then completely reinventing himself as a master on the vibraphone and other mallet instruments in the mold of greats such as Milt Jackson and Bobby Hutcherson. In fact, he has been selected as a featured artist to tour with the legendary Lionel Hampton Big Band to share the music of the legendary bandleader. An all-around musical polymath, it is a true treat to hear Marsalis perform a whistle-solo, or demonstrate his perfect pitch--he recently made his debut on vocals singing a low bass line on the Kermit Ruffins/Irvin Mayfield produced track "Don't Worry Be Happy" in addition to providing vibraphone, marimba, whistle, woodblocks, shakers, snaps, claps, and chest drum.