Search - Kenny Barron :: Spirit Song

Pianist Kenny Barron says he made Spirit Song with the idea of breaking away from the standard bebop chord progressions and 4/4 time, a predictability that's hardly apparent on his this album's Verve predecessors. In any event, this is a typically rich and invigorating collection of mostly Barron originals that reinforces his status as the most gracefully propulsive pianist in jazz today. It's a joy to hear how many rhythmic crevices Barron can explore while engaging percussionist Michael Wall around the title track's four-note vamp, then listen to him follow it with shrewd, sensitive accents on Billy Strayhorn's "Passion Flower" that there's little need for the rest of the rhythm section (although Billy Hart and Rufus Reid are none too shabby). Another highlight is Barron's cavorting duet with saxophonist David Sanchez on McCoy Tyner's durable "Passion Dance," a heraldic, feel-good celebration that still never loses its cool. With longtime Barron cohort Eddie Henderson blowing muted, Miles-like bubbles on trumpet and Regina Carter and Russell Malone playing guest spots, the ensemble is full-bodied and first rate. Last but not least, Barron's composition "Sonja Braga," named after the sensual Brazilian screen actress, lives up to its name. --Britt Robson