Pamela Hines Trio: Return

Commentary on Hines' previous albums has underscored a similarity to Bill Evans, a sentiment not to be taken lightly. On tunes like Rodgers & Hart's "My Heart Stood Still" (including an alternate take), the use of dynamics and lyricism show a strong Evans influence, and Gullotti's tasty brushwork draws the comparison even closer. Not surprisingly, two Evans originals—"Comrad Conrad" and "Displacement"—are also well-played in the style of the late pianist.

Bergonzi only appears two tracks. They are both Hines originals and, while the first one, the title tune, is a ballad and well-rendered, "Very" is a great opportunity to hear the tenor saxophonist turn up the heat. Bergonzi is slowly but surely edging into the territory of Houston Person as a guest tenor saxophonist man who succeeds in raising the musical bar for his employer. Both of Hines' originals are solid and attractive jazz compositions.

As a bandleader, composer and pianist, Pamela Hines is a prime example of fine jazz recording artist.

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