Mark Sherman: Bop Contest

MILE HIGH RECORDS 8638 (RELEASED NOVEMBER 7, 2025

After a series of recordings showcasing his piano playing, Mark Sherman returns to the vibraphone for a very special session titled Bop Contest. One reason why it is special is the appearance of the most recorded bassist in the history of jazz — Ron Carter. According to Sherman, the two sat on music juries together at Juilliard and one day Carter asked, “How come you never use me on bass?” Bop Contest is the answer! The session is also special because it was recorded in the hallowed space of the Rudy Van Gelder Studio. The result is a recording that demonstrate the individual mastery of band members as well as their congenial musical interplay on seven titles. Joining Sherman and Carter on Bop Contest are pianist Donald Vega, a longtime member of Carter’s Golden Striker Trio; and Carl Allen, who has frequently performed with Sherman over the years. Trumpeter Joe Magnarelli is added on two Sherman originals — the lyrical “Love Always Always Love” and the boppish title track. Things start off with the bop-infused melody, rhythm and solos on Oliver Nelson’s “111-44” and end with a stunning piano/vibe duet of “Skylark,” on which Sherman plays both! Sandwiched between those extremes are two classic Cedar Walton tunes — “Bremond’s Blues” and “Martha’s Prize” as well as a bossa version of “My One and Only Love” and the two Sherman compositions with Magnarelli’s crisp sound paired well with the lyrical resonance of Sherman’s vibes. Although the release is titled Bop Contest, Sherman, Carter, Magnarelli, Vega and Allen are more concerned about complementing one another rather than battling it out, and that makes you the winner!

BOTTOM LINE: According to Mark Sherman, recording Bop Contest with jazz icon Ron Carter in the historic setting of the Rudy Van Gelder Studio made for one of the most memorable experiences of his life. It also marks Sherman’s return to the vibraphone.
The winner of this Bop Contest are fans of straight-ahead jazz performed by Sherman, Carter, pianist Donald Vega, drummer Carl Allen and trumpeter Joe Magnarelli (featured on two Sherman originals).