Notes from the Netherlands

Jeff Hamilton writes of this new release: "This instrumentation has long been a favorite in a trio setting. Being a jazz drummer, I never quite understood this! Seriously, these three gentlemen exhibit exactly why. This recording includes the important features required to make this piano, bass, guitar combination operate as smoothly as it should. They are all accomplished musicians who listen to each other, play to make each other sound as good as possible, they are sensitive to each other's' dynamic and intensity ranges, and you hear the joy they have while playing this music. Compatibility is crucial in any group. If it isn't there, the listener will detect that something isn't quite right, perhaps not being able to recognize the problem. This trio's compatibility is exhibited by their time feel, harmonic and rhythmic agreement and overall simpatico. On the beautiful ballad, Letter to Alissa, you'll enjoy the trio's sensitivity which allows the melody and solo ideas to breathe. When the musicians do this, it offers that same relaxation to us, the listeners. While in this relaxed state of mind, their gentle boss nova feel keeps us "there", as well as with Song for Emil. Lex Jasper's compositions blend so well with the other selections, you find yourself thinking that they just might be standards that haven't yet been heard."