The virtuosic Cuban pianist
Gonzalo Rubalcaba's first recording to be issued in the U.S. is still one of his best. With strong accompaniment from bassist
Charlie Haden (one of his early champions) and drummer
Jack DeJohnette,
Rubalcaba is in frequently exciting form throughout these performances. Highlights include an outstanding investigation of "Besame Mucho," "Giant Steps,"
Ornette Coleman's beautiful "The Blessing," and an unusual treatment given to
Bill Evans' "Blue in Green." ~ Scott Yanow