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Michael Kocour: East Of The Sun
ByIn recording by himself, with no rhythmic safety net, Kocour is continuing a jazz tradition that extends at least as far back as Art Tatum and perhaps even further, incorporating some of the master's phrases and others gleaned from such role models as Hank Jones, Tommy Flanagan, Barry Harris and Cedar Walton, among others. Even so, Kocour's voice is his own, and a strong one it is, making the strenuous task of imparting warmth, freshness and personality to a program of relatively well-known music seem rather easy.
It is, of course, hard to wander too far astray when reprising songs by Arlen, Gershwin, Porter or Carmichael, as their music all but speaks for itself. Kocour enhances it with charming themes by Neil Moret ("She's Funny That Way"), Cliff Burwell ("Sweet Lorraine") and Donald Heywood ("I'm Coming Virginia") in addition to Gibson's "Loving You" and Brooks Bowman's seductive title song, which opens the album. While Kocour always has his best foot forward and there's never a note out of place, the performance readily transcends that, as it is Kocour's singular approach to melody, rhythm and harmonic undertones that draws the listener's ear and engages his or her attention. As is true of almost anyone who shoulders the daunting task of completing a recital on unaccompanied piano, Kocour is at heart a story-teller, and the narrative he imparts via the keyboard is incisive and endearing.
Yes, there are a few partisans for whom a little solo piano goes a long way, but everyone else should have no trouble warming to Kocour's charming and resourceful excursions on East of the Sun.
Track Listing
East Of The Sun; I've Got A Right To Sing The Blues; She's Funny That Way; Sweet Lorraine; Who Cares?; Just One Of Those Things; Come Rain Or Come Shine; I'm Coming Virginia; Stardust; I Can't Stop Loving You.
Personnel
Michael Kocour
pianoMichael Kocour: piano.
Album information
Title: East Of The Sun | Year Released: 2019 | Record Label: OA2 Records
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