The Great Jazz Trio: 'S Wonderful (2005)

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.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: July 8, 2005

Generations keep things rolling, passing on information, and intangible qualities are soon absorbed. Hank Jones will turn 87 on July 31. Jack DeJohnette is 62. John Patitucci is 46. Each has a different frame of reference from which to draw upon when interpreting standards, such as those appearing here on 'S Wonderful. The swing and sway of each memorable piece comes with its own texture. The elder Jones makes sure that we get it right.

"Moanin'" comes with a built-in emotional power that lifts you up from your seat. "Sweet Lorraine" simmers gently with a soft, loping attitude. "S'Wonderful" swings with the fragrant charm that jazz's forefathers planned from the beginning. "Night Train" digs deep into the groove yard for a soulful strut, bringing to mind a late night bar room scene where everybody has decided to join in on the fun at hand. With this great jazz trio on board, no one can afford to sit back and just watch. They get everyone involved, both emotionally and physically.

"The Days of Wine and Roses" departs from the usual, as Jones drives the trio hard on a foot-stompin' celebration. Patitucci's double bass echoes with lyrical pride, DeJohnette's crisp drum cadences ring with intensity, while the pianist carries his melodies with aplomb.

"Take Five," a personal favorite, appeals to our appetite for rhythmic and harmonic complexity, as the trio explores its rich fathoms. Jones takes this piece apart and reassembles it with a mighty stroke, giving it new life. Bassist and drummer take their turns by delivering solos with unique qualities as the trio bends this one to fit its scope. Patitucci prefers a lyrical approach; DeJohnette forms a crystal-clear sizzle on his snare drum; and pianist Jones brings it all together into one happy family. Together, they truly are a Great Jazz Trio.

Track Listing: S' Wonderful; Sweet Lorraine; Moanin'; The Days of Wine and Roses; Take Five; I Surrender Dear; Night Train; Lover Come Back to Me; Greensleeves.

Personnel: Hank Jones: piano; John Patitucci: bass; Jack DeJohnette: drums.

Record Label: Sony
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream