The first notes are intriguing, not your usual hard bop piano. Then we’re off, and the piano lines are very interesting and fresh. I love the piano in jazz, and I usually appreciate some character to the instrument, like the leader on this album produces. His name is Jaki Byard and I first noticed him when I was watching videos of the Mingus concerts in Europe in ‘64 on YouTube. I immediately enjoyed his unique style. After that I looked him up, and started to explore his output a bit. I haven’t gotten very far since then, but I have already found some titles that I enjoy very much. He’s already become one of my absolute favorite piano players in jazz, just by hearing a handful of albums. Other pianists I enjoy a lot are Mal Waldron, Monk, McCoy Tyner, Bill Evans, Tommy Flanagan, Bobby Timmons etc.
A bit of Monk shines through in his playing on this record. But it’s a flavor all of his own. It’s quite unique. His compositional skills are very impressive as well, as this album contains several high quality pieces of his. Very interesting piano trio jazz. I think the format itself is wonderful. I love piano trios. The cats on this are Byard on piano, Ron Carter on double bass and Pete La Roca on drums. Superb group.
The second side begins with a very special tune. It starts quite soothing with piano candy by Byard. After a while all hell breaks loose with some propulsive drums and double bass. The piano just flies over the chaotic rhythm section and sprinkles Byard’s magic over it. Then it settles down again and we get some outstanding lyrical playing by Byard… it’s brilliant.
If, for some reason, you haven’t discovered Byard yet I would highly recommend you start exploring his work. I think “Hi-Fly” is a great introduction to his genius. Check it out.
Quite a few questions for my readers: If you’ve heard this album, what’s your take on it? Your thoughts on Jaki Byard in general? Favorite Jaki Byard album? Top 5 jazz pianists of all time? Please, write away.
At the moment I’m in the process of trying to find my next addition to the collection. I have one title for example that I have the chance to acquire, but it will take some luck and some dough. Let’s see how that pans out, fingers crossed. Stay tuned for more great, vintage pieces of vinyl coming up… cheers!