David Hazeltine Trio – Waltz For Debby (1999) [Japan 2017] [SACD / Venus Records – VHGD-204]

Title: David Hazeltine Trio – Waltz For Debby (1999) [Japan 2017]
Genre: Jazz
Format: SACD ISO + Hi-Res FLAC

It’s a challenge to play Evans’ compositions without a certain degree of his influence in a piano trio setting, but that doesn’t really matter, as the three musicians keep the music fresh, even if there is nothing innovative about their approach. Vetran bassist George Mraz is a veteran of many sessions as a sideman for Venus, and drummer Billy Drummond is also a first-call player, while both fit the mold of musicians who would have complemented Evans himself. Hazeltine never attempts to outright copy Evans’ playing style, beginning with a breezy “Waltz for Debby” that percolates with energy. Ballads are always an acid test for jazz musicians, and Hazeltine’s treatment of the bittersweet “Time Remembered” brings out the lyricism of this beautiful work. Mraz is showcased in good light in the challenging “Funkallero.” Hazeltine has one solo feature, the intricate original “Bill at Peace,” in which the late pianist’s influence is readily apparent. The audio throughout this enjoyable session is superb, giving the listener the feeling of sitting a few feet away from the trio in the studio.

hraudio 

Tracklist:

01. Waltz For Debby
02. Peri’s Scope
03. Time Remembered
04. Show Type Tune
05. Very Early
06. Bill At Peace
07. Funkallero
08. The Two Lonely People
09. Turn Out The Stars

Personnel:

David Hazeltine – piano
George Mraz – bass
Billy Drummond – drums

Note:

Produced, Mixed & Mastered by Tetsuo Hara. Engineered by Mike Krowiak.
Recorded on December 27, 1998 at Clinton Recording Studio in New York.
Venus Hyper Magnum Sound Direct Mix. VENUS Japan # VHGD-204.

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