Barron

This release combines the elegant swing of nine-time Grammy-winner Kenny Barron with the first-call Brazilian rhythm section of Trio da Paz, an inspired cross fertilization that enhances both jazz and tropical elements. This is an exceptionally well-paced, melodic, spirit-lifting CD. Recommended

It is well-known that tenor saxophonist Bill Barron was highly regarded by fellow musicians and his many students, and underappreciated by the general public. This recording displays all the why's and wherefore's as to his unsung greatness, showcasing his clever compositions and his clear, distinct, definite tenor tone that holds allegiance to no peer or predecessor. Trumpet partner Ted Curson and younger brother Kenny, a pianist, both play on the dates that were originally issued as Modern Windows and The Tenor Stylings of Bill Barron.
The first four cuts comprise "The Modern Windows Suite" with baritone saxophonist Jay Cameron, bassist Eddie Khan, and drummer Pete LaRoca Sims helping…

The cultured piano style of Kenny Barron has graced many albums in the last half century. He is an easy swinger deeply admired for his nonpareil musicianship and innate sensitivity to the needs of his musical companions of the moment. Born in 1943 he was gigging with Philly Joe Jones at sixteen and soon playing in a band with his tenor saxist brother Bill. In 1962 he was hired by Dizzy Gillespie and the five year stint he had with Dizzy established him firmly on the jazz scene throughout the world.

Having both cut his teeth and come into his own with Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, and Yusef Lateef, among others, pianist Kenny Barron began to carve out what has proven to be a lengthy and fruitful solo career by 1973. This fine duo outing, which has Ron Carter and Michael Moore trading off on bass, certainly shows Barron was in full control of his vigorous and tuneful style by the mid-'80s. Cut for the independent BlackHawk label before Barron would eventually find more exposure via such high-profile companies as Enja and Verve, 1 + 1 + 1 features a tasty program of numbers by Monk, Ellington, Coltrane, Dave Brubeck, and others. Of particular note are Barron and Carter's treatments of the Gershwin opener, "The Man I Love," and Brubeck's "In Your Own Sweet Way"…

Barron is a hugely talented pianist - one of the best jazz pianists alive today -, and his bop-based style with flowing lyricism and unique melodic sense in in full display here. And unlike his other recent albums, this CD mostly features his beautiful interpretations of standards and ballads. Barron, George Mraz and Ben Riley sound perfectly relaxed and inspired at the same time. One can tell from this CD that they enjoyed playing together very much. This is clearly one of Kenny Barron's best albums to date!. Highly recommended!