Phil Morrison Trio: Philanthropy

On "This Time the Dream's On Me," Green's lyrical guitar and Morrison's solid bass foundation recall the Nat King Cole trio. As Williams plies the piano keyboard with enthusiasm and swing, the trio interprets with a charming presence. Similarly, on "East of the Sun," they provide heartfelt reflections that soothe and heal.

Williams adds scat choruses and vocalese to the menu, giving the session a variety of vocal memories. Bossas, ballads and boleros reach out and grab your heartstrings casually, before you're aware.

The ensemble is at its best on Sonny Boy Williamson's "Eyesight to the Blind," where its rhythm and blues is communicated naturally. Morrison, Williams and Green speak to their audience with a casual air. They communicate freely through a swinging attitude and through lyrical refrains. Instrumental soliloquies surpass the album's vocal textures in value.

Exotic and intimate, Philanthropy brings the listener a session filled with pleasant jazz memories and a loose, swinging ambience.

Audio samples may be found at the trio's web site .