Although drummer
Steve Davis organized this date and is its nominal leader, pianist
Richie Beirach is the main solo voice and star throughout. His lengthy improvisations (with
Davis and bassist Francois Moutin) range from the introspective to the swinging and even include some whimsical moments (particularly on "Softly As in a Morning Sunrise" and a few of his song quotes). The playing is quite spontaneous, with Moutin and
Davis closely following
Beirach's ideas. Five of the songs (two of
Beirach's better-known originals plus "Blue & Green," "Softly As in a Morning Sunrise," and "Nardis") clock in between eight and 11 minutes, while the closing medley of "Free," "Stella by Starlight," and "Solar" goes on for over 28 minutes. The interplay between the musicians is consistently intriguing and
Richie Beirach has rarely sounded better. Well worth several listens. ~ Scott Yanow