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Jazz Arts Trio: Tribute
ByTribute is a collection of 11 famous trio performances transcribed from their recordings by the trio members. The collection is appropriately heavy on Oscar Peterson, whose recordings provide six of the selections. The remaining five pieces were parceled among Erroll Garner, Bill Evans, Vince Guaraldi, Horace Silver and Herbie Hancock. On one hand, there's the temptation to think that performing a completely transcribed jazz performance would be a futile exercise. On the other hand, it is not so different from what classical performers do day in and day out.
While novel at this level, the Jazz Arts Trio's transcriptions and recital are compelling. The trio's performance of the transcription of Bill Evans' 1961 Village Vanguard version of "My Foolish Heart" illustrates the chops and artistry of its members. Moyer proves a careful study of piano styles. His play on Evans has the same light, ethereal touch of the originator, like a wisp of mist. Tillotson's Scott LaFaro impersonation is impressive, if understated, and Fraenkel's Paul Motian is dead on.
To be sure, Bill Evans and Oscar Peterson were very different pianists; Peterson being virile and physical, while Evans is quiet and introspective. This makes Moyer's accomplishment, well, that much more accomplished. Versions of Peterson's "Tin Tin Deo" from Easy Walker (Prestige, 1969) and "Bossa Beguine," from Blues Etude (Limelight, 1965), illustrate both Peterson's rhythmic genius and Moyer's considerable chops.
Moyer approaches these different pianists as he would approach pieces by different composers. The sum of the experience is an increased appreciation for the original performances, and the Jazz Arts Trio's ability to readily summon them up.
Track Listing
Something's Coming (Oscar Peterson Trio); Tin Tin Deo (Oscar Peterson Trio); Bossa Beguine (Oscar Peterson Trio); Watch What Happens (Oscar Peterson Trio); (They Long to Be) Close to You (Erroll Garner Quartet); My Foolish Heart (Bill Evans Trio); Freeway (Vince Guaraldi Trio); Lonely Woman (Horace Silver Trio); First Trip (Herbie Hancock Trio); You Look Good To Me (Oscar Peterson Trio); Blues Etude (Oscar Peterson Trio).
Album information
Title: Tribute | Year Released: 2008 | Record Label: JRI Recordings
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About David Sherr
Instrument: Composer / conductor
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