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Ted Rosenthal Trio: The King and I
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Although based in Japan, Venus Records is known for assembling crack US jazz trios, and this is one of the best. For this outing Rosenthal, a reliably elegant and expressive pianist, is joined by the always lyrical bassist George Mraz and first-call drummer Lewis Nash. Their approach to these classics is both respectful and creative.
It's difficult to isolate highlights at this level of excellence, but favorites include the transformation of "I Whistle a Happy Tune" into a '50s rock/stroll, and the tongue-in-cheek take on "March of the Siamese Children," in which the trio becomes a jazzy marching band. They bring out the pensive beauty of "We Kiss in a Shadow" and "Something Wonderful," and swing so hard on "Getting to Know You" that they remove years of saccharine from that song.
All told, this is a beautiful, tasteful, thoroughly engaging sessionit's essential for fans of the show, and highly recommended for those who enjoy jazz trio playing at its best.
Track Listing
My Lord and Master, Shall We Dance?, I Have Dreamed, I Whistle a Happy Tune, We Kiss in a Shadow, Getting to Know You, Something Wonderful, March of the Siamese Children, Hello, Young Lovers
Personnel
Ted Rosenthal
pianoTed Rosenthal: piano; George Mraz: bass; Lewis Nash: drums
Album information
Title: The King and I | Year Released: 2006 | Record Label: Venus Records