Search - Matt Ray :: Lost In New York

Pianist Matt Ray has been a fixture on the New York jazz scene for more than a decade. "Lost in New York" is his sophomore effort, the follow up to his critically acclaimed debut album We Got It!. Here he calls on the talents of two other creative New York musicians -- drummer Quincy Davis (who's worked with Tom Harrell's band), and bassist Danton Boller (who has recently been spotted touring with trumpeter Roy Hargrove). The trio wends their way through an interesting and compelling set of music -- effortlessly adapting tunes from a wide variety of sources, including such familiar composers as Wayne Shorter and Stevie Wonder. There are three original tunes as well. Also of interest are the album's liner notes, which are made up of an essay written by the artist himself detailing the experience of being lost artistically and personally in the big city. Being lost is apparently a good thing to Ray, and it shows on this record, as he chooses diverse tastes in material, and works his way through a series of searching but well-honed trio improvisations. For those fans of Matt Ray who have been looking forward to a new recording, the album does not disappoint. The five year wait between records was worth it, as the pianist's concept has continued to develop into a warm and well-rounded voice in jazz. Pick up a copy, and get lost in "Lost In New York."