Milt Buckner - More Chords (19696/2015) Hi-Res

Innovative pianist and organist Milt Buckner originated the "locked hands" technique, a method of playing that was emulated by his and future generations, from George Shearing to Red Garland to Oscar Peterson and beyond. More Chords, released in 1969, is the third of the trio albums Buckner recorded for German label MPS and features Buckner with bassist Jimmy Woode, a Duke Ellington alumnus, as well as British drummer Kenny Clare, who played with Aretha Franklin and Tony Bennett.
More Chords is the third MPS Milt Buckner production, with bassist Jimmy Woode and drummer Kenny Clare back on board. I De Clare was written for Clare. It’s a hot tune with great drum-piano interaction and a terrific drum solo. I Want a Little Girl to Call My Own features Buckner’s blues-drenched soulful piano ringing out striking glissandos and upper register trills. The trio turns the popular 1920’s waltz Three o’clock in the Morning into a hard-driving 4/4 with vibrant piano and bass solos. Pennies from Heaven features a two-handed parallel-lines piano and drums in a lively exchange. Jimmy Guiffre’s Four Brothers was written for Woody Herman’s 2nd “Herd” big band and its famous sax section. Buckner does the piece justice –with his voicings there’s no need for the horns. Buckner takes Back Home in Indiana at a medium-up tempo, showing off his bebop chops by playing Charlie Parker’s Donna Lee (based on the same chord changes) as the end theme. If I Could Be With You is a beautiful theme-driven ballad. Taking a Chance on Love ends the set – no risk here – this music’s easy to fall in love with. Want more Buckner? Check out MPS’s Alive & Jumping

Tracks:

01. I De Clare (3:14)
02. I Want A Little Girl To Call My Own (6:52)
03. Three O'Clock In The Morning (4:20)
04. Pennies From Heaven (6:47)
05. Four Brothers (3:52)
06. Back Home In Indiana (3:30)
07. If I Could Be With You (4:31)
08. Taking A Chance On Love (6:04)

Personnel:

Milt Buckner - piano, organ
Jimmy Woode - bass
Kenny Clare - drum