Ruby, My Dear

by Scott Yanow There are two types of accordionists in jazz: Richard Galliano and everyone else. Galliano plays his instrument with the fluidity and looseness of a saxophonist, the technique of a classical pianist, and the individuality of a singer. Few are close to being on his level. The Ruby, My Dear sessions find Galliano in New York, interacting with bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Clarence Penn. While the intriguing repertoire includes a tango, a couple of jazz standards ("Ruby, My Dear" and Oscar Pettiford's "Bohemia After Dark"), and a piece by Erik Satie, Galliano's five originals really showcase his playing the best, letting him stretch out over intriguing chord changes. Richard Galliano has made quite a few excellent recordings for Dreyfus; Ruby, My Dear is an excellent place for one to start in discovering his musical talents.