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Misha Piatigorsky: 17 Rooms
ByThe material is all original with the exception of three selections. As a composer, Piatigorsky is melodic and innovative. He displays a healthy respect for song structure that is refreshing in this day of jazz writing that consists mostly of riffs and snippets of melody that writers call "songs." Piatigorsky likes the minor keys (perhaps it is his Russian soul), but his songs are not at all sad.
As a performer, Piatigorsky shows the solid classical foundation upon which he has built his style. He can change from block chords to single notes in the blink of an eye and tastefully inserts some dazzling runs on the way. He is playful at times, given to tempo changes within a composition (as in the title track) and is always passionate. He is inventiveapproaching John Lennon's "Imagine" with a straightforward playing of the melody, but reharmonizing the chords and encasing the song in the language of gospel. He paints picturesas in the original "Blackfire," which blazes with colors.
His band mates are very much a part of this musical equation. Kozlov's lyrical style and mellow sound is featured on "Kindred Spirit" and on the bop-flavored "Blues For Fools." Hoenig is always there, but never over the top, his wonderful way with the cymbals on the title track and interplay with the leader on Wayne Shorter's "United" prime examples of his skill.
But most evident on this CD is Piatigorsky's free spirit that shines through each and every track. Enough said. Go listen.
Track Listing
Open Window; 17 Rooms; Blackfire; Ballade of Edward Vs. Edward Opus 23; Waltz For Ayelet; United; Kindred Spirit; Blues For Fools; Turkish Folk Song; Imagine.
Personnel
Misha Piatigorsky
pianoMisha Piatigorsky: piano; Boris Kozlov: bass; Ari Hoenig: drums.
Album information
Title: 17 Rooms | Year Released: 2009 | Record Label: Misha Music
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About Misha Piatigorsky
Instrument: Piano
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17 Rooms