San Francisco-based pianist
Larry Vuckovich has in recent times paid tribute to his Balkan heritage (he was born in Yugoslavia although he has lived in California since 1951) and the swing revival movement.
High Wall, which is subtitled
Real Life Film Noir, mostly focuses on bebop even though the repertoire is much more diverse. Mostly featuring his trio/quartet, with percussionist Hector Lugo on seven of the dozen selections, and
Vince Delgado making guest appearances on two, the focus is primarily on the pianist. On a program that includes his "Afro 6/8 Minor Blues," the premiere recording of film composer's
Bronislaw Kaper's "High Wall,"
Joe Sample's "Put It Where You Want It," and a tribute to
Lester Young ("Lester's Minor Blues"),
Vuckovich brings back the spirit and style of bebop. Some of the music is a bit dark, in keeping with the film noir image, but it also has a determinably joyful spirit that makes the performances difficult to resist. Whether it is
Dizzy Gillespie's "Ow,"
Barry Harris' obscure "Lolita," or
Vuckovich's solo piano rendition of "A Handful of Stars,"
High Wall is of strong interest from start to finish. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow