Don Pullen - New Beginnings (1989/2019)

Although it may be a bit of a simplification, on New Beginnings pianist Don Pullen sets up fairly simple structures (some of which could be grooves for Ramsey Lewis) and then, after stating the theme, tosses in playful runs that are often quite outside, essentially putting his original style from the 1960's in a slightly commercial 1980's setting. Pullen plays quite rhythmically during his more intense phrases and displays a sly sense of humor. Both bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Tony Williams get a generous amount of solo space on the trio date and they are not overshadowed by the leader's often-fanciful flights. However the set does have one strong fault: at under 28 minutes it is way too brief.