By Joe Lang, Jersey Jazz, May 2010
Pianist and William Paterson University graduate Justin Kauflin has, with Introducing Justin Kauflin (JKC - 001), immediately established himself as a stellar jazz player, composer and leader. It is rare for a young musician to produce an album that displays the kind of musical maturity that is in evidence here. His cohorts, Tim Green on alto sax, Etan Haziza on guitar, Phil Kuehn on bass and Billy Williams on drums provide him with solid support as they assay nine selections that range from originals, three by Kauflin and one by Williams, to a Beatles tune, “A Day in the Life," “Return Trip" by Mulgrew Miller, and two spiritual pieces, “Be Thou My Vision" and “Abide with Me." There are some musicians who just grab your ear immediately, and demand attention. I felt that way in listening to Kauflin. He has a touch and imagination that are immensely appealing. In combination with the other fine musicians, and a program of satisfying eclecticism, this is a CD that is a welcome addition to my library, and should be for yours.
Pianist and William Paterson University graduate Justin Kauflin has, with Introducing Justin Kauflin (JKC - 001), immediately established himself as a stellar jazz player, composer and leader. It is rare for a young musician to produce an album that displays the kind of musical maturity that is in evidence here. His cohorts, Tim Green on alto sax, Etan Haziza on guitar, Phil Kuehn on bass and Billy Williams on drums provide him with solid support as they assay nine selections that range from originals, three by Kauflin and one by Williams, to a Beatles tune, “A Day in the Life," “Return Trip" by Mulgrew Miller, and two spiritual pieces, “Be Thou My Vision" and “Abide with Me." There are some musicians who just grab your ear immediately, and demand attention. I felt that way in listening to Kauflin. He has a touch and imagination that are immensely appealing. In combination with the other fine musicians, and a program of satisfying eclecticism, this is a CD that is a welcome addition to my library, and should be for yours.
