Search - Toshiko Akiyoshi :: Interlude

Great CD and rare opportunity to hear Toshiko in small setti

C. Katz | Peoples Republic Of Massachussettes | 02/10/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Toshiko Akiyoshi is of course most famous for her arranging and leadership of her big band (along with husband and compatriot tenorist Lew Tabackin).But here with in 1987 with Dennis Irvin on bass and Eddie Marshall on drums were here the a true master whose decided influence goes back to the source the great godfather of modern jazz piano Bud Powell.Toshiko plays two originals 1)"Interlude" and then 2)I Know Who Loves you" asi is the fourth cut.You could imagine these being debut by Bud or one of his disciples like Al Haig,Duke Jordan et all at say Birdland,The Onix Club or The Three Deuces in the late 40's or 50's.But all of them have her not copying Bud but an homage with her own imprint and personality.On the third cut she plays not so much a laconic "Blue and Sentimental" but a mid tempo one where her imprint shines as well.Most interesting of choices is her choice and arrangement of the fifth number Pucccini's "Pagliachi" which retain as returner to theme but is a truly a romp and gives Irwin and Marshall space to lay out.They were perfect for this date.Irwin is solid (with a great intro solo on cut number six "Solitude" and is hard hitting when appropriate.But Eddie Marshall well it's one of those times when you have heard a player before and "why doesn't he stick out in my mind (or others more) as a master.Especially with his cymbal work and the semi press rolls he just wails.All the while these three individualists blend like well made margarita.The afore mentioned "solitude" is given such soft reverence it really is emotional.The seventh tune Porters "So In Love" is given a pretty quick ever so slightly calypso treatment (you might like me almost think they will swing right into "Caravan")Again Eddie Marshall gives the skins and cymbals quite a workout during his solo.Toshiko's skill honed over 40 years (at that point and now 20 years latter she is still going strong) is fully in evidence here and a treat.The album ends with a "You Stepped Out Of A Dream".Hear as else where you get what you want when you get a new CD a really individual performance of a warhorse that is the total opposite of of going through the motions.It is shame that so many concord releases (especially the Maybeck series) are OOP but this is worth what you have to pay.A spry,playful spirit in the hands of pros's is what good trio jazz is all about.I have to admit I like small group stuff after the 40-50's so can't say I have absorbed enough of her big band but through allmuisccom decided to check this one out and it's a keeper.As ever go to Jazz Foundation of America and give what you can.

Cheers

Chazz

"