Phil DeGreg: Whirl Away

Pianist Phil DeGreg combines hot bop, the blues, and modal melodies on his second J Curve album. His modern mainstream approach to jazz emphasizes the lyrical side, while supplying lively rhythmic substance. DeGreg’s quintet moves from unison saxophone & guitar or unison piano & guitar to extended solo work, keeping each piece lively through syncopation and gentle surprises. Alternating the faster action with slower, piano trio ballads, DeGreg offers the best of both worlds.

In an interesting twist of fate, the title track for the pianist’s second J Curve album comes from an earlier time, when DeGreg was at the University of North Texas. "In A Whirl" was first recorded in 1982 with the school’s One O’clock Band. Today, he’s affiliated with a different school; DeGreg is Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music. A talent deserving wider recognition, Phil DeGreg carries the mainstream jazz torch effectively and with sparks flying.