Sounds of happy diners in clever conversation compete with clattering utensils ringing against uncontrollable laughter.   Another conversation is taking place nearby, just feet away from the gleeful diners. A conversation that is a lot more clever and skilled. This conversation comes in the form of a Jazz trio led by Mark Tonelli that seems to be producing thoughtful and delightful residuals, mixed with a certain degree of seriousness and intensity.

Both conversations seem to have the participants engrossed to the point that they don’t interfere with the others. As a matter of fact, they seem to be quite comfortable, but occasionally the diners will hear something from the trio and they pause to eavesdrop on what the trio has to say. 

So subtle and seemingly effortless is Mark Tonelli’s guitar playing, he manages to fit the trio’s musical conversation into the atmosphere garnering splatters of applause from fluid solo work. You can hear this same type of calm finger fire set to original compositions from two CDs Mark has produced on his own label, Mtonal Music, "The Mark Tonelli Group" and “Chasing the Myth.” Packed with noted reputed jazz players who’ve carved out reputations in the metroplex as performers and instructors, Mark leads these ensembles with apparent democratic rule that gives each instrumentalist plenty of room for expression. 

In his first solo effort, “The Mark Tonelli Group,” Mark gets involvement from his group and yet has the patience that shows he’s completely comfortable to let the music do the talking. “Chasing the Myth," his sophomore follow-up, features Mark in a somewhat different setting -- with a quintet and in a much tighter line-up where the listener gets to hear how clever Mark can turn phrases within phrases. This setting offers Mark the opportunity to overplay. Smartly, he finds the balance to let the listener know he’s the leader without being overbearing. On “The Myth” CD there’s an anticipation after going around the room (a jazz term where each player get a solo) that the listener won't be disappointed when it comes his turn.

Both CDs should’ve been included in family or friends' Jazz stocking. It's this reviewers opinion that if you’re into Kenny G and Yanni, it may be a bit strong, and you won’t dig it- let alone get it. The CDs come highly recommended if you’re into Pat Metheney, Barney Kessel, Herb Ellis, and Charlie Christian; this will tickle your musical palette.  http://www.mtonalmusic.com/  or  http://www.cdbaby.com/