Search - Larry Trio Willis :: Let's Play

The Art of the Trio exemplfied.....

NDBx | New York, NY United States | 04/17/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Larry Willis is one of the great undiscovered treasures both as a pianist and composer. An inventive musician especially with a ballad. He gives the pieces exactly what they need. In this recording he is in fine company. Santi Debriano on bass, Victor Lewis on Drums. Larry strikes an almost perfect balance between emotion, romance and intellect. He lets the notes breathe. He listens exceptionally well and always strikes a dialog with his bandmates. This is one of his best recordings. Larry is always at his best in a trio environment. "Who Can I Turn To?", "Children of Harlem", "Anne", "Bess You Is My Woman Now" and "Nardis" are real stand outs. It's hard to go wrong with this recording. Santi Debriano just sings on bass throughout this recording. He converses, swings, sings and drives things along. Whatever is called for. More people should hear him, he is one of the great undiscovered. Victor Lewis shows why he is one of the finest drummers around and why so many musicians look for Victor to be on their recordings. All you Herbie Hancock AND Bill Evans fans should check this recording out. This IS the art of the trio..."

Modern, introspection, atmosphere and substance.

mavennd | New York | 03/16/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of my all time favorite pianists, who always applies an original take on even the most overplayed pieces. He has a way of letting the notes breathe and never overplays. This is a true trio, the interplay is tight and the players sensitive to one another. "Let's Play", "Who Can I Turn To? ", "Bess You Is My Woman" and "Children of Harlem" are true standouts. For those of you who are fans of piano jazz or for those looking for those who are fans of both Bill Evans and Herbie Hancock, this album is an absolute must."