Search - Dave McKenna :: Live at Maybeck 2

A Pianist's Pianist

Samuel Chell | Kenosha,, WI United States | 04/29/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Since the evolution of the acoustic bass and improved recording technology, most jazz pianists have neglected left-hand technique, using the appendage less for rhythmic purposes than to fill out the harmony a bit and to "position" themselves in the chord sequence that the right hand is improvising upon. As a result, solo piano represents a formidable challenge for most players--virtually all of whom either allow the rhythm to be implied or overcompensate by playing with lots of additional notes in the right hand. Dave McKenna is the most notable exception in jazz.And unlike the remaining "two-handed, two-beat" players who risk sounding dated by imitating the "stride piano" style of Fats Waller or James P. Johnson, McKenna reproduces the 4/4 rhythmic foundation of post-swing era musicians. He walks bass lines with the harmonic independence and rock steady time of the best bass players and drummers--while improvising independent, no-frills melodies in the right hand. This recording of a live concert date before a small but "knowing" audience captures the virtuosity as well as the essence of McKenna better than any other album by him. Besides demonstrating his musicianship, it reveals his enormous repertory and his taste and imagination in selecting tunes and grouping them in medleys. Who would have ever thought of coming up with a "Knowledge" medley, and who would have known ten different tunes answering to the theme? This is one of the recordings I play not simply for pleasure but, in more ways than one, for knowledge."

Perfection

Samuel Chell | 11/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are only a few recordings that move me profoundly. Richard Goode playing the late Beethoven and Schubert sonatas; Andras Schiff playing Bach's English suites; and now, Dave Mckenna's recital at Maybeck, playing the greatest music this country has produced. BUY THIS RECORD!"

A special piano CD.

Samuel Chell | 08/16/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The opening song, Dream Dancing, is a textbook example of solo piano at its best. First, a dreamy introduction, showing rich chords and a delicate touch...then he shifts into a mid tempo, the left hand providing a walking bass line, then a guitar like strumming sound before a graceful ending. This is a special performance by a unique artist who actually excels in a solo setting."