Yet another name from across the pond - David Janeway - who, like so many American musicians is relatively unknown in the UK just as so many British musicians aren't recognised in the US. I suppose that if you don't make a name in NYC, no matter how big you are elsewhere, it's an uphill struggle for universal recognition.
Fortunately, Janeway is making a name in the jazz capital of the world this being his third trio album and the first with this, his working trio.
With Cameron Brown on bass and the legendary Billy Hart on drums this was never going to be less than good and it is all of that and more!
The pianist's inspiration for Distant Voices is centred around those musicians who have influenced him throughout his career. Hank Jones, Walter Bishop Jr., Bill Evans, Duke Ellington, Ahmad Jamal, Larry Willis, Cedar Walton and Herbie Hancock are all in the mix.
He does them proud without losing his individuality. This is no piano, bass and drums cocktail lounge trio playing blasé music to dine by but three musicians of comparative standing working as one to create a contemporary feel to a traditional format.
Billy Hart is your man for all seasons. He can drive a hard bop band like The Cookers or keep a small group such as this under control. Brown lays down the basslines and contributes solos that benefit from the rich sound he and the instrument produce - a sound that surely inspires both himself and the other two.
Just one regret, the album was released by Steeplechase in Nov. 2021 and it didn't reach me until Feb. 2022. Still, it was worth waiting for - Lance
Sweet and Lovely; Minor Contention; Blue Serge; Moontrane; Gardenia; One For Cedar; Brigitte; Waltz For Zweetie; Excursion; All or Nothing at All; In Passing; Nefertiti; Movin' On.
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