Search - Michael Wolff :: Jazz Jazz Jazz

Fresh, Inventive a definitive must-have

NDBx | New York, NY United States | 10/04/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"At first glance you would see these well-known pieces and think, these pieces have been well covered by many a trio. You would be wrong.



Michael Wolff does an outstanding job of giving us fresh new versions. His is a style of heart, soul, a sense of swing and intellect.



He's never forgotten what this music is supposed to be about. The man has chops and knows how to use them.



His treatment of "My Funny Valentine" is unique. Usually this is a piece that's quite sentimental but he gives it a unique treatment, never losing the feeling while exploring new aspects and nuances. He does the same with "Cry Me A River"



This is a first-Rate trio. John B. Williams!!! More people should know if this bassists, who plays with sensitivity and power. He swings, bends notes and LISTENS. He's in perfect sync with Michael and the interaction is first rate. Victor Jones is exemplary in this session. He has a solid, modern touch. He plays with an impeccable sense of time. This trio is amazing. Perfectly in sync. No song is sacrificed with any tangents or asides. They re-work, re-interpret and re-invent these pieces.



"Dolphin Dance" is, to my ears, better than the original. "Footprints" is another highpoint. As is "Con Alma".



This is recording is one of the best trio recordings in recent years for me. These three musicians don't get lost in clinical forays in finding the lost chord or in cyclical tangents. They get it. They have a sense of identity, feeling and soul.



This one is a must have."