Recorded over the same three-day stretch as
Waltz Blue Side, this trio date by
Steve Kuhn features a mix of standards and originals, with the help of a strong rhythm section including bassist
Eddie Gomez and drummer
Billy Drummond, though it is an interactive trio versus piano plus accompaniment group.
Henry Mancini's "Charade" has had popular appeal since it appeared as the theme music in the
Gregory Peck-
Audrey Hepburn film, though it has been infrequently recorded in jazz settings, in spite of its attractive melody.
Kuhn's brilliant, leisurely arrangement showcases
Gomez extensively, as well as himself.
Michel Legrand's "Once Upon a Summertime" has long been a favorite of jazz musicians and
Kuhn's romantic setting of this bittersweet ballad is breathtaking. "I'll Take Romance" is a change of pace, providing a brisk waltz treatment.
Kuhn's originals include one of his best-known works, the driving "Years Later," along with the elegant ballad "Pastorale." Recommended.