Bluesine

This solo piano affair by Martial Solal dates from early 1983, mixing striking interpretations of standards and familiar jazz compositions along with his own stunning originals. His take of "The End of a Love Affair" has the virtuosity of Art Tatum and the lyricism of Tommy Flanagan in a rather curious blend. His stutter-step introduction to Richard Rodgers' "Lover" is only the beginning of his wild approach to this familiar waltz; his topsy-turvy arrangement is full of humor. "I'll Remember April" is often subjected to rather dull, predictable performances in the world of jazz, though Solal approaches it in angular fashion, working only gradually toward its very recognizable theme. Thelonious Monk's "'Round Midnight" is also tackled in a roundabout way instead of the usual direct fashion, while his enlightened take of Charlie Parker's "Yardbird Suite" is a bit more accessible, though no less novel. Solal's two originals nicely round out this rewarding CD, which is getting more to difficult to acquire after being dropped from the Soul Note catalog. ~ Ken Dryden