Kenny Barron Trio - Minor Blues (2009) [2014 SACD]

Venus Record's producer Tetsuo Hara met pianist Kenny Barron for the first time in 1992, and ever since then wanted to record his trio album. He did so in 2004 by releasing the Super Standard CD, but Barron's contract with another label prevented them from using his name, so they called the trio the "Super Trio."
With the expiration of that contract, Barron returned to Venus to record this superb trio album, this time properly released under his own name. Barron is a hugely talented pianist--one of the best jazz pianists alive today--and his bop-based style with flowing lyricism and unique melodic sense in in full display here. And unlike his other recent albums, this album mostly features his beautiful interpretations of standards and ballads.
Barron, George Mraz and Ben Riley sound perfectly relaxed and inspired at the same time. One can tell from this album that they enjoyed playing together very much. This is clearly one of Kenny Barron's best albums to date. The typically big, powerful sound of this Venus release adds to the value of this excellent album.

Tracks:

1. Minor Blues
2. Beautiful Love
3. Emily
4. For Heaven’s Sake
5. How Deep Is The Ocean
6. Too Late Now
7. Don’t Explain
8. Hush – A – Bye
9. I’ve Never Been In Love Before
10. My Ideal

Personnel:

Kenny Barron Trio:
Kenny Barron, piano
George Mraz, bass
Ben Riley, drums