The second of three recordings by the trio
Three of a Kind for Minor Music adds
Stanley Turrentine as a special guest. The veteran tenor saxophonist seems stimulated by the young rhythm section, grooving to
Dwayne Dolphin's walking bass introduction to "On the Trail." Their interpretation of
Duke Ellington's "I'm Just a Lucky So and So" is drenched in the blues, while "You and the Night and the Music" is far more deliberate and subtle than typical performances in a jazz setting, emphasizing its lyrical beauty. Pianist
Peter Madsen penned three originals, including the rather funky "Backporch Overlooking Heaven" and the slightly dissonant
Thelonious Monk-inspired "Monkey See Monkey Do," as well as the upbeat but somewhat dark bossa nova "What's Left for the Children." Drummer
Bruce Cox provides strong support throughout the date. This successful studio session is well worth acquiring, though it is out of print. ~ Ken Dryden