“The group is full of fantasy, creating variations while playing as little themes develop in tempo and color.”
The negative meaning often associated with the word “Naive” does not apply to the title of the second CD from the Marnix Busstra 4-tet. The nine compositions on The Naive World are of a relatively uncomplicated structure and emit an almost childlike optimism, while showing a great deal of musical virtuosity at the same time.
The quartet is comprised of not just any musicians. Bassist Eric van der Westen, drummer Pieter Bast and band leader/guitarist Marnix Busstra all have a reputation to defend in the Dutch jazz circuit. Although saxophonist Bart Defoort (who replaces Kurt van Herck, heard on their debut CD) is a relative recent addition to the family, his playing blends perfectly with that of the other band members. The Marnix Busstra 4-tet plays with a unity that creates additional intimacy. The lead role is given to Busstra’s transparent guitar sound and the warm-blooded saxophone of Depoort. Bast is inventive in his use of brushes and van der Westen’s bass ensures a solid foundation.
The main-stream jazz with reggae rhythms and strains of carefully chosen rock is light-footed and almost flitters out of the speakers. The group is full of fantasy, creating variations while playing as little themes develop in tempo and color. Busstra and his colleagues redefine the word “Naive”. In their hands, “Naive” becomes a fragile and subdued beauty.