Todd Zimberg with Michael Gotz and Perry Thoorsell: An Afternoon in Sellwood

Sellwood, for those who may have been wondering, is a Portland, Oregon neighborhood, the home base—more or less—of drummer Todd Zimberg and his bandmates, pianist Michael Gotz and bassist Perry Thoorsell. Based on its playing time, Zimberg's debut album as leader, An Afternoon in Sellwood, could have borne the title A Half Hour in Sellwood. Well, thirty-one minutes, to be more precise.

That said, Zimberg's trio makes the most of that concise time, thanks to inspired blowing, engaging charts (presumably by Zimberg) and an astute choice of material (four enduring standards from the Great American Songbook and Horace Silver's bop era classic, "Nica's Dream"). The standards are "There Is No Greater Love," "Alone Together," "On Green Dolphin Street" and the memorable "Stella by Starlight." Gotz, of course, is the lyric fulcrum, although Thoorsell carries the melody on "Alone Together" and everyone, as would be expected on a trio date, helps shoulder the improvisational load.

Speaking of which, none of the solos is less than proficient. None, on the other hand, is likely to turn any heads. We have three talented musicians who love what they are doing and give the music the best they have to offer. Zimberg and Thoorsell are rhythmically adept, while Gotz knows the keyboard well and listens earnestly when it is his turn to lend support. Thoorsell's sound is broad and resonant, Zimberg's timekeeping sturdy yet compliant. Together, they make sure that An Afternoon in Sellwood— or even a part of one—is a pleasant and rewarding experience.

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