In My Solitude: Arbors Piano Series, Vol. 16

構成数 : 1枚
合計収録時間 : 01:08:39
Personnel: Jeff Barnhart (piano). Jeff Barnhart's first solo piano recording is a marvelous collection of stride piano interpretations of standards, obscure compositions and originals. He is very much a melodic pianist, but can dazzle with his left hand when he chooses to do so. He inserts a lively chorus of romping stride in the midst of a generally easygoing "When I Grow Too Old to Dream," inviting comparisons to Fats Waller and Ralph Sutton with his upbeat, humorous interpretation of "All God's Chillun Got Rhythm," as well capturing the lush, yet melancholy mood of Duke Ellington's marvelous ballad "Solitude." Sidney Bechet's "Petite Fleur" will be familiar to fans of the late soprano saxophonist, though it is infrequently played and this is likely the first solo piano recording of it. Barnhart initially introduces this hidden gem as a tango before switching into a lively stride mode. His delightful approach to "An Ev'ning in Caroline," a long overlooked Walter Donaldson composition, makes one wonder why it has been so neglected. Barnhart's originals are every bit as much fun. The upbeat "Arbors Joys" sounds like a throwback to the early days of cutting contests among the Harlem Stride masters. "Remembering Ralph" is a warm salute to the late Ralph Sutton, a modern master who dazzled audiences for decades with his powerful hands and lyrical playing style. Jeff Barnhart's top-notch studio sessions are complemented by veteran writer Floyd Levin's informative liner notes, a lucky soul who witnessed the music as it was performed. ~ Ken Dryden
録音 : ステレオ (Studio)