Marv Jenkins - Marv Jenkins Arrives

Marvin Lee "Marv" Jenkins (1932-2005) was an American singer, pianist, flute player, tenor saxophonist, organist and a proficient composer. Jenkins touch was heavy and swinging, funky without being trite. Despite naming Erroll Garner and Oscar Peterson as influences, he sounded like neither. He was an underrated jazz-man who spent 25 years of his career as an accompanist to singer/actress Della Reese, and is best know for his piano work on Marvin Gaye’s classic 1973 recording Let’s Get It On. 

His firs recording, Marv Jenkins Arrives, was an auspicious debut on the small Los Angeles label Orovox. Bassist Bob Martin and drummer Jack Dean contributed to the good groove. *Jordi Pujol*

Like a fast moving satelite, orbiting around the earth, these songs styled by Marvin Jenkins are a gratifying experience — with a smooth style that, musically speaking denotes an imaginative undertone of something new and modern.

Marvin Jenkins' casual and cool air may be a bit deceptive, though such polished and talented performances are the product of much hard work and study. From Aultman, Ohio, where he was born, to Hollywood and New York or wherever else he has appeared with his own trio or Barney Kessel, Marvin has conscientiously endeavored to entertain his audiences.

In his album, you hear him as he comes into his own, stylizing in a peerless performance — a new topflight artist playing with an easy lift, in an exciting way that proclaims to the world, that Marvin Jenkins arrives to take his place in the house of great pianists. *(Liner notes)*

Side 1

1 - Bluesology

(Jackson)

2 - A Foggy Day

(Gershwin)

3 - Duet

(Jenkins)

4 - I've Never Been In Love Before

(Loesser)

Side 2

5 - One Mint Julep

(Toombs)

6 - Stella By Starlight

(Young)

7 - Cubano Chant

(Jamal)

8 - Fugue For Lulu

(Mitchell)

9 - Marv's Blues

(Jenkins)

Marvin Jenkins (piano), Bob Martin (bass), Jack Dean (drums).

Recorded in Los Angeles, California, 1960.