Renowned pianist/composer
Fred Hersch debuts on Palmetto Records in this classic jazz piano trio performance titled
Live At The Village Vanguard. Formally released at a "live" date at the world-renowned jazz club in New York City,
Hersch is joined by bassist
Drew Gress and drummer
Nasheet Waits. In his own words,
Hersch has stated that the trio specializes in high lyricism and high danger. Truer words were never spoken as the disc opens with
Thelonious Monk's "Bemsha Swing."
Fred Hersch is in great form during his solo introduction before the bass and drums swing in. "Phantom of The Bopera" is a sensational bebop original that features the technical virtuosity of the trio and their ability to engage their listeners in compelling musical improvisations and conversations. The trio is really in the pocket on this one. Throughout the program,
Nasheet Waits plays amazing drumlines including two outstanding solos on "Phantom of the Bopera" and
Wayne Shorter's"Miyako/Black Nile" medley. He clearly shows why his is one of the better drummers of his generation. In addition to the seven originals written by
Fred Hersch, the trio covers "Some Other Time" and "I'll Be Seeing You." These GAS favorites benefit from
Hersch's award-winning style and shine in a pristine, new jazz environment.
Live At The Village Vanguard is by far a major accomplishment for
Hersch and shines just as brightly as his previous Grammy-nominated efforts.