Although drummer
Jay Lawrence is the leader of this trio date and bassist
Lynn Seaton is excellent in support,
Thermal Strut is a success primarily due to the playing of pianist
Tamir Hendelman. A major pianist based in Los Angeles who works with the
Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra,
Hendelman is brilliant throughout the modern mainstream set, whether romping on "Topsy" and "Opus De Funk," or sounding impressionistic on "Almost Summer" and
Lawrence's "Eulogy."
Seaton and
Lawrence both play well behind
Hendelman, who is particularly expressive on
Jimmy Rowles' "Peacocks." Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow