A. J. Salas: 88 Reasons

Although still a teenager, A.J. Salas is one of the premiere pianists in the environs of Colorado. This, his first album, features a play list of Salas originals along side stompers by the likes of blues legend Leroy Carr and others. And that's the kind of music Salas specializes in, blues and boogie. The tracks are a mix of him on solo piano, piano duets with Ann Rabson and with his "little big band". His boogie woogie side dominates on "Jumbo Gumbo". The same beat appears on "Frances" as the band joins Salas. Young as he is, A. J. knows the essence of jazz is swing and swing he does throughout. Listen to "Side Walk Sun Day" where he and band romp and let it all hang out. There's some excellent soloing here by Jim Hoppes on guitar and Keith Harms on trumpet. The blues just ooze on Carr's classic "Midnight Hour Blues" with an appropriately soul filled vocal by Mary Flower. The excellence of the band members is further demonstrated with a trombone solo by Jeff Young on Ray Bryant's "Madison Time". "How Long Blues" is one of the more engaging tracks where Salas teams with Rabson and they entice the listener to eavesdrop on their musical conversation. Even though the pianism is soft, its delicacy fits in well with the overall theme of the session.

While young in years, Salas is very mature when it comes to performing his music. Hopefully, this album is a forerunner of many to come in what looks to be the beginning of a long career in jazz. Certainly the talent is there and one hopes that there will be plenty of opportunities for Salas to use it. Recommended.