A powerhouse of bass playing from Mike Pope, featuring Randy Brecker, Henry Hey, and more.

The Lay of the Land is an impressive debut from bass virtuoso Mike Pope on Whaling City Sound. Mike demonstrates his exceptional command of both the 5 and 6-string electric bass and the upright acoustic bass, creating an album that traverses a wide range of musical landscapes. His technical proficiency and stylistic versatility have led to collaborations with an illustrious lineup of artists, including Mike Stern, Chuck Loeb, Jason Miles, Randy Brecker, and Blood Sweat & Tears, just to name a few.On 'The Lay of the Land', Mike showcases his talent in an all-star setting, featuring renowned musicians such as trumpeter Randy Brecker, pianist Henry Hey, drummer Jeff 'Tain' Watts, and saxophonist Michael Brecker. This dynamic collection of original compositions and jazz standards blends harmonic complexity with melodic richness.

Highlights include the rhythmic precision of tracks like 'The First Order of Business' and the contemplative beauty of 'At Home Again.' Each performance highlights Mike's fluid technique, whether he's playing electric or upright bass.The album's wide sonic palette also features contributions from vibraphonist Joe Locke, guitarist Mike Stern, bassist John Patitucci, and saxophonist Seamus Blake, among others. Together, they create a deeply immersive experience, with each musician adding layers of depth and texture. Mike's arrangements and compositional prowess reflect his ability to navigate various idioms, from bebop to contemporary jazz.'The Lay of the Land' is an essential listen for jazz enthusiasts, marking a powerful new chapter in Mike Pope's career. This debut reaffirms his position as a world-class musician capable of seamlessly blending different genres and instruments into a cohesive and exhilarating work.

Additional Details

Label: Whaling City Sound

Genre: Jazz

Run Time: 55 mins

Region: 0

Release Date: 02/11/07

UPC: 687606001725