Renee Rosnes: With A Little Help From My Friends

By

JIM SANTELLA,

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.

1,674 articles published | Recent:

• Experiences
• Second Chance
• Couldn't Stand the Weather
• Rufus Reid: Live in Vienna
• Raw Jazz

Published: April 1, 2001

While her compilation spans nearly eleven years and includes various musical companions, Renee Rosnes seldom veers from her established sound. The pianist's timeless formula centers on her crisp improvising technique. Not one to make jokes or approach a situation lightly, Rosnes applies a determined effort for every tune – straight from the heart and powerful. Her modern mainstream aura has enabled the pianist to wax creatively in the company of quite a few standout artists. With Chris Potter, she's on fire, trading the lead and encouraging a woven conversation. With Branford Marsalis and Joe Henderson, she's at home and comfortable. Wayne Shorter seems to encourage exploration and adventure. Strings are added to "I've Got You Under My Skin" and play an integral role in its lush presentation. Several previously unreleased tracks represent alternate takes.

The title track, an alternate take, stands out as the album's lyrical high point. Working with Billy Drummond and Scott Colley, Rosnes seems quite at ease and ready to share her feelings with the world. A soulful blues hue colors her lyrical play. The Beatles may affect a lot of folks that way, and there's no arguing the fact that those Lennon-McCartney songs leave a lasting impression. Renee Rosnes, too, leaves a lasting impression with her representative mainstream sound and her winning circle of friends.

Track Listing: Summer Night; I've Got You Under My Skin; The Sounds Around the House; UPA Neguinho; Lazy Afternoon; Bright Mississippi; Diana; Gargoyles; With a Little Help From My Friends; So In Love; Malaga Moon.

Personnel: Renee Rosnes- piano; Wayne Shorter, Steve Wilson- soprano saxophone; Chris Potter- soprano saxophone, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone; Joe Henderson, Walt Weiskopf, Branford Marsalis- tenor saxophone; Ira Coleman, Buster Williams, Peter Washington, Scott Colley, Ron Carter, Christian McBride- bass; Lewis Nash, Billy Drummond, Jack DeJohnette, Al Foster- drums; Don Alias- percussion; Dianne Reeves- vocal.

Record Label: Blue Note Records | Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream