Jazz Articles about Brian Trainor

Brian Trainor: Tangled Roots

by Jim Santella
April 5, 2003

For the sake of love and genuine friendship, Brian Trainor composed this suite of mellow tunes. Each depicts one special aspect of a specific personal relationship. At the same time, Trainor’s impressionism allows the listener to share in those themes. Dancing a tango, riding bicycles together, sharing quiet moments, discussing world affairs and personal thoughts: these are the sources that we can all appreciate. The trio establishes each theme clearly. Trainor lights a few fires and expands several pieces beyond ...

Brian Trainor: Monk & Me

by Mark Corroto
July 1, 2000

For a few years in the early 90s I ran a coffeehouse that weekly (some say weakly) presented local jazz acts. From fusion to solo piano, I had but one requirement of any musician. Play at least one Thelonious Monk tune per night and the gig was yours. Deviously simple, Monk’s music always separates the talented from the fake. I regularly challenged them by requesting “Epistrophy, “Evidence,” and “Trinkle-Tinkle.” Most beginners choose the Blues, “Straight, No Chaser.” Chicken! Monk, to ...

Brian Trainor: Monk And Me

by Jim Santella
April 1, 2000

Pianist Brian Trainor salutes Thelonious Monk by interpreting four of the legendary artist’s compositions and supplying several of his own. Choosing to work with his piano trio on most tracks (bassist Vince Fay and drummer Bill Jones), the native of Trenton, New Jersey catches fire with a percussive approach that honors both Monk’s quirky piano style and his unpredictable compositions.

Guest trumpeter John Swana opts for electronic valve instrument on “Hackensack." Fitting the role and range of a floating soprano ...