Description
“Withholding Nothing” represents transparency of the artist – Alton Merrell showing the world his true self. This recording is Merrell’s message about when life becomes challenging, surrender even when you do not understand that is “Withholding Nothing.” Merrell’s musical artistry is a unique blend of lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and fluid technique that spans multiple music genres including jazz, gospel, classical, pop, and rhythm and blues. Merrell’s rich musical interpretations take listeners on spirit-filled excursions that deeply touch the soul. Out November 1, 2023 via MCG Jazz, the album is full of a variety of styles of jazz from rag to gospel. The music reflects Merrell’s faith and diversity. On his new album, Withholding Nothing, Merrell offers seven new compositions along with new arrangements of hymns including “Amazing Grace,” “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “I Love You Lord.” The title track, “Withholding Nothing” written by William McDowell holds significance for Merrell as his “go to” song that got him through the greatest challenge in his life. The song’s message encapsulates this warm, sensitive, lyrical and emotional recording. Dr. Alton Merrell Dr. Alton Merrell is a world class pianist, composer, and educator. He has performed and taught throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and parts of the Caribbean. Merrell is a sought-after jazz pianist who has performed with legendary artists, including Antonio Hart, Tia Fuller, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Curtis Fuller, Benny Golson, Slide Hampton, Jimmy Heath, Roger Humphries, Sean Jones, Hubert Laws, Delfeayo Marsalis, Christian McBride, Jimmy Owens, Rufus Reed, Jim Snidero, Sachal Vasandani, Kim Nazarian, Kenny Washington, and Jeff “Tain” Watts, and regularly performs with Pittsburgh’s best jazz artists. Merrell is a current member of the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and has performed multiple times with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, Cleveland State Jazz Heritage Orchestra, Pittsburgh Concert Chorale, YSU All-Star Alumni Jazz Ensemble, Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, and the OMEA Intercollegiate All-Star Jazz Ensemble.
