Phil Morrison Trio: Philanthropy (2004)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: December 2, 2004

Keith Williams sings jazz favorites and originals on Philanthropy with a warmth that makes this intimate session memorable. With bassist Phil Morrison and guitarist Barry Green, he recalls the history that has put jazz into our hearts.

On "This Time the Dream's On Me," Green's lyrical guitar and Morrison's solid bass foundation recall the Nat King Cole trio. As Williams plies the piano keyboard with enthusiasm and swing, the trio interprets with a charming presence. Similarly, on "East of the Sun," they provide heartfelt reflections that soothe and heal.

Williams adds scat choruses and vocalese to the menu, giving the session a variety of vocal memories. Bossas, ballads and boleros reach out and grab your heartstrings casually, before you're aware.

The ensemble is at its best on Sonny Boy Williamson's "Eyesight to the Blind," where its rhythm and blues is communicated naturally. Morrison, Williams and Green speak to their audience with a casual air. They communicate freely through a swinging attitude and through lyrical refrains. Instrumental soliloquies surpass the album's vocal textures in value.

Exotic and intimate, Philanthropy brings the listener a session filled with pleasant jazz memories and a loose, swinging ambience.

Audio samples may be found at the trio's web site .

Track Listing: Philanthropy; Blue Gardenia; Helo from Ipanema; This Time the Dream's On Me; Summer Rain (Amaoto); Eyesight to the Blind; East of the Sun (and West of the Moon); Tranquility; I Can Only Say "I Love You".

Personnel: Phil Morrison- vocals, bass; Keith Williams- vocals, piano; Barry Green, Sergio Brandao- acoustic guitar; Von Barlow- drums, percussion; Mikael Ringquist, Dan Weigert- percussion.

Record Label: Dr. Mac Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream