Bill Charlap Trio - Im Old Fashioned (2010) [2014 SACD]

Nobody would argue that Bill Charlap is one of the most preeminent jazz pianists of his generation. His encyclopedic knowledge of the American Songbook is second to none, and his beautiful touch, amazing skills and imagination make it a pleasure to listen to him at all times.
As some of you already know, Charlap has recorded a number of great albums for Venus Records of Japan with his great New York Trio (with Jay Leonhart and Bill Stewart). For this latest release, he decided to take a slightly different direction with a drum-less trio with guitarist Peter Bernstein and bassist Peter Washington.
Having a guitarist instead of a drummer softens the texture of the trio sound and makes it more intimate. It also makes the sound of the bass come forward so one can appreciate, in this case, the virtuosity of Washington. Charlap's tone is pristine and his solos are sigh-inducingly beautiful. The group's style may seem "old fashioned" on surface, but their interpretations of standards are modern, sophisticated and urban.

Tracks:

1. I’m Old Fashioned
2. I Can’t Get Started
3. Stella By Starlight
4. Ghost Of A Chance
5. All The Things You Are
6. Easy Living
7. Darn That Dream
8. Angel Eyes
9. What Is This Thing Called Love
10. Body And Soul
11. Gone With The Wind
12. Everything Happens To Me
13. These Foolish Things

Personnel:

Bill Charlap, piano
Peter Bernstein, guitar
Peter Washington, bass