Even though it is self-evident to compare his style to these jazz majors, since he echoes their influences, Marx nonetheless has an incisive, muscular voice all his own, propulsive and organic, possessing great precision, warmth and clarity. The pieces on which he plays are a reward to listen to. 

His interest in jazz is rooted in Detroit, where, since his earliest recollection, jazz was always his music of choice. It was the visit of one of Sonny Stitt’s Detroit concerts, however, that became a pivotal experience, leading to a turning point in Jeff Marx's life.

Marx was so utterly fascinated with Stitt’s perfection, that his decision to commit himself to a serious study of jazz music was soon made. Seeking to immerse himself more thoroughly, Marx moved to the West Coast, where he lived in Berkeley and studied with Hal Stein from 1974 to 1977. The 70’s jazz scene in Oakland and San Francisco was hot, and Marx was able to play with greats like Eddie Henderson and Mark Levine.

With the jazz virus now irrevocably entrenched in his blood, Marx moved to New York City where he settled for 14 years from 1979 - 1993. It was here that he played with Coltrane stalwart, Reggie Workman, guitarist Kevin McNeil, and jazz luminaries Donald Byrd, Ed Schuler, Jim Pepper, Gene Jackson, Ira Coleman, Santi DeBriano and Dave Stryker among others.

He co-led Second Sight with John Esposito, Jeff Siegel and Dave Douglas for five years, from 1986 to 1991. Increased visibility led him to tour overseas, playing in Spain and Portugal in 1984, and throughout Europe. 

Marx has also played at the 1989 Greenwich Jazz Festival and in New York City for Columbia College Radio in 1990.

Although saddened by the death of Jim Pepper on February 10, 1992, he was honored to play on the National Public Radio memorial program for his former colleague.