Pianist Greg Burk's debut on the Italian Soul Note label, Checking
In, might have been better suited with the title Checking Out, as
in "I've been checking out different approaches to the jazz piano trio."
The disc displays the Berklee educator's multiple voices, beginning
with his fundamentally stable sound. Joining Burk are drumming legend
Bob Moses and bassist Jon Robinson. The trio opens with the McCoy
Tyner inspired "Sun Up," with its two-handed rhythm run. Burk quickly
switches gear to a sentimental "6 Ways" and then an outwardly abstract
"Tutto Nudo." While Burk fusses with the piano insides, Moses rattles
about at his drum kit. Not your cup of tea? The band goes on to the Latin
jazz inspired "Acorn Yellow."
Burk has drawn much from his tutelage under Paul Bley, Danilo
Perez, Yusef Lateef, and George Russell. From these diverse teachers,
the now instructor broadcasts his influences in a wide area. All this
change of direction works because Burk plays with an apparent love and
passion for his craft. You cannot fake it on ballads like "Serena." His
emotions are real. Bob Moses shares some authenticity too, working a
mighty South African sound into "Moasis" as Burk plays rhapsody over his
flurry. They finish the disc off with some dynamic bop, leaving you wanting
more.
Track listing: Sun Up; 6 Ways; Tutto Nudo; Acorn Yellow; Serena; Moasis; Tomorrow Is
Today; When Will You Know?; Sweet, My Honey Sweet; Ascent To The
Strawberry Patch.
Personnel: Greg Burk � Piano; Jon Robinson � Bass; Bob Moses � Drums.
Style: Mainstream/Bop/Hard Bop/Cool
Published: January 02, 2003
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Pianist Greg Burk's debut on the Italian Soul Note label, Checking
In, might have been better suited with the title Checking Out, as
in "I've been checking out different approaches to the jazz piano trio."
