Matthias Schubert, John Hollenbeck, Scott Fields - Samuel

Although conceptual allusions to literature might suggest haughty pretension, Beckett is actually Fields' most varied and swinging record in years. Even at their most abstract, these are engaging compositions, bolstered by zealous group interaction, rich harmonic ingenuity and stunning dynamic range. Like the work of its dedicatee, one listen to this album won't do it justice. -- All About Jazz When you think Beckett you don't automatically think of elegant and intricately crafted modern chamber jazz, but that's precisely what guitarist Scott Fields offers us here on this magnificent quartet outing [Beckett] with John Hollenbeck (percussion), Scott Roller (cello) and Matthias Schubert (tenor saxophone). The playing of all four musicians throughout is exemplary, the scores cunningly crafted and intriguing to the point of being frustrating (and if that isn't Beckettian I don't know what is) and the recording superb. What more could you ask for? A sequel, perhaps. -- Paris Transatlantic Magazine Scott Fields' (b. 1955) Samuel, the second album of compositions based on Beckett's plays, follows 2007's highly acclaimed Beckett.