Jazz Articles

Piers Lawrence Quartet: Stolen Moments

by Michael P. Gladstone
July 31, 2008

For his introductory album, guitarist Piers Lawrence has chosen material from some jazz standards, originals and one tune from the Great American Songbook. His use of a piano/bass/drum accompaniment provides a relaxed and amiable session.

Born in New York City, Lawrence was raised in San Francisco, studying in Geneva, Switzerland before returning to New York to join the jazz scene, initially with the Jazz-Mobile Orchestra Big Band, while studying with guitarists Barry Galbraith and Ted Dunbar. Lawrence's diversified ...

Piers Lawrence Quartet: Stolen Moments

by C. Michael Bailey
July 13, 2008

William “Count" Basie was a master of economy in his piano playing. Never flashy or overtly technical, Basie had a knack for being able to play the least number of notes while still maintaining the necessary momentum to swing. Miles Davis was another such master, where the music was more about style than technique. Guitarist Piers Lawrence is also such a musical economist. His jazz guitar playing is paced and refined, each note carefully considered and placed with no interest ...

Piers Lawrence Quartet: Stolen Moments

by Elliott Simon
July 11, 2008

It's the overall creamy texture of the sound and the effortless vibe created by guitarist Piers Lawrence that makes Stolen Moments such an enjoyable listen. This is one together quartet whose mastery of group dynamics captures your attention right away with a short but effervescent rendering of Sonny Rollins' “Pent-Up House." Lawrence, who is a fluid and even-handed picker, flaunts some sprightly creative runs on Bird's “Donna Lee," has his sweet sound to the forefront on an up-tempo presentation of ...

Piers Lawrence Quartet: Stolen Moments

by Jerry D'Souza
February 24, 2008

Guitarist Piers Lawrence realizes his dream of recording a mainstream jazz album through a well-balanced mix of originals and standards. Lawrence is a confident player with an ear for melody and flowing harmonies. He has a graceful quality that gets into the songs whether he is out swinging or embracing bop.

Lawrence also comes off as a pretty skilled writer through his three contributions to the set. “Samba Christina is, naturally, a samba. The guitarist feeds the tune with thick ...