Souvenir

by Ken DrydenThe first of several trio dates by Bill Charlap for the Dutch label Criss Cross finds the pianist concentrating on a wide range of compositions by fellow jazz musicians, accompanied by bassist Scott Colley and drummer Dennis Mackrel. Charlap's driving hard bop interpretation of Ornette Coleman's blues "Turnaround" is a gem, as are his lyrical arrangements of Benny Carter's gorgeous ballad "Souvenir" and Phil Woods' memorable tribute "Goodbye Mr. Evans." His playful side comes across in his obtuse approaches to Charlie Parker's "Confirmation" and Jim Hall's "Waltz New" (which is a reworking of the chord changes to "Someday My Prince Will Come"). The only standard of the session is an extended treatment of "Alone Together," which begins with a haunting solo by the leader before evolving into an intense, introspective workout by the trio. This very enjoyable date is highly recommended.