John Campbell - Workin' Out (2001)

A powerful pianist who often gets overlooked, John Campbell is heard in top form throughout this trio set. Teamed with bassist Jay Anderson and drummer Billy Drummond, Campbell makes such tunes as Thelonious Monk's "Four In One," Freddie Hubbard's "Sky Dive," Wayne Shorter's "Fall" and Chick Corea's "Sea Journey" sound simple. This consistently enjoyable and often hard-swinging set serves as a perfect introduction for listeners who are not familiar with the brilliant playing of John Campbell. ~Scott Yanow