In his eighth release as a bandleader, acclaimed jazz pianist Greg Murphy delivers a vibrant and soulful listening experience with Snap Happy, a masterfully crafted album that celebrates technical brilliance, rhythmic joy, and lyrical finesse. Released under Whaling City Sound, this project blends a variety of jazz styles into a seamless and expressive musical narrative.
From the opening track, an energetic reimagining of the jazz standard “On Green Dolphin Street,” Murphy sets the tone with dynamic interplay and bold creativity. This momentum flows into “Twelve More Bars to Go,” a nod to Wayne Shorter’s influence, and continues with standout originals like the title track “Snap Happy” and the funk-inspired “Chillin’ for Rhythm.”
Murphy’s long-standing trio is in top form on this album. Obasi Akoto anchors the music with deeply resonant acoustic and electric bass lines, while Steve Johns provides dynamic and nuanced percussion throughout. Together, they elevate Murphy’s compositions with chemistry and class.
One of the album’s highlights is “Snap Happy”, featuring soulful guitar work from Mark Whitfield and vibrant vocals from Sy Smith on “Geneva.” These collaborations bring added texture and emotional depth, enriching the album’s diverse sonic palette.
A unique aspect of Snap Happy is its ability to traverse emotional landscapes—moving from the reflective and heartfelt “I Fall in Love Too Easily” to the assertive, groove-driven “Equality” and the ethereal balladry of “The Shadow of Lo.” The album closes with genre-bending interpretations of “Pannonica” (Monk meets bossa nova) and a sizzling rendition of “All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm,” showcasing Murphy’s stylistic agility.
Snap Happy is not only a celebration of Greg Murphy’s musical journey but also a testament to his role as a torchbearer of contemporary jazz. His playing—equal parts precision and passion—honors the legacy of jazz greats like McCoy Tyner while pushing the genre into fresh, modern terrain.
As noted jazz critic Chris DeVito writes, "Snap Happy exudes happiness, achieving what its name implies—makes people happy."
Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or a newcomer exploring the genre, Snap Happy offers a rich, rewarding experience that hits all the right notes.
Track Highlights:
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On Green Dolphin Street
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Twelve More Bars to Go
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Snap Happy
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Equality
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The Shadow of Lo
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All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm
Album Credits:
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Greg Murphy – Piano & Keyboards
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Obasi Akoto – Acoustic & Electric Bass
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Steve Johns – Drums & Percussion
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Mark Whitfield – Guitar (Tracks 4, 6, 9)
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Sy Smith – Vocals (Track 4)
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