Gramercy Park

Gramercy Park is an exceptional three-disc set of jazz and classical compositions performed by the Dutch pianist and composer Michiel Borstlap. Set in three different formats -- acoustic piano solo, acoustic piano trio, and electric piano quartet -- the music highlights the diversity of his piano artistry and major influences. Recorded during live performances and studio sessions on five continents, the programs feature Borstlap playing acoustic and Fender Rhodes piano on compositions written by such musical luminaries as Herbie Hancock, Frederic Chopin, Cole Porter, and Miles Davis and include seven originals either written or co-written by himself. Among the jazz standards are a beautiful solo rendition of Hancock's "Dolphin Dance," complete with the delicate and sometimes playful piano touches and arpeggios that represent the imagery of the song's title, and a riveting performance of "Body and Soul" on disc one. Disc two features the trio of Jeff Tain Watts on drums and Essiet Essiet on bass, performing three songs, including the title track, "Gramercy Park." Their chemistry emerges to provide a unique link between Borstlap's lightning-quick key release and Watts' and Essiet's ability to complement it tastefully without overpowering or falling behind his varied and inventive phrasings. Borstlap is later joined by Boudewijn Lucas on bass guitar and Sebastiaan Kaptein on drums for an awesome ten-minute live performance of Miles Davis' "All Blues." Here Borstlap plays the melody painted with an artistic style that features modal harmony, elaborate and sophisticated arpeggios, and superior modulation. Disc three continues the auditory coherence with a 20-minute set that features a two-part suite titled "Temple of Dance." These improvisations feature electronic dance grooves fused with jazz and funk rhythms as collaborated by Ronald Moledijk, one of Holland's top dance DJs, and Borstlap. These two tracks definitely groove. This three-CD set is on the money, the music is superior and it should attract a wider global following to the talent and artistry of Michiel Borstlap. ~ Paula Edelstein|