Konrad Paszkudzki Trio - Isn't It Romantic: Richard Rodgers Song Book (2017) [2018 SACD]

Established in Miami, on life support in L.A., then finally burnished in New York City, the Konrad Paszkudzki Trio's aesthetic can be summed up in three words: mood, sizzle and swing. Their sound is classic yet timeless in its mode of expression, captivating ardent lovers of the jazz idiom and Tin Pan Alley tradition alike.
The focus is on standards — tunes collectively known as The Great American Song Book. Without imposing trite gimmicks or relying on overt displays of flash and technical wizardry, the trio stays true to the original musical and lyrical content of the material, with an emphasis on melodic elegance and swinging verve. The influence of Nelson Riddle, Oscar Peterson, Erroll Garner and Ahmad Jamal can be felt and heard, but is never blatantly mimicked.
Direct, simple, yet intriguing, they improvise solo narratives with toe-tapping nonchalant grace. There is something humble in this approach, but the attitude with which the music is delivered is one of confident passion. The message it carries comes across in pristine fashion — the Konrad Paszkudzki Trio leads the way in today’s world of swinging, sophisticated jazz.

Tracks:

01. Everything I've Got
02. Glad To Be Unhappy
03. I Could Write A Book
04. Isn't It Romantic
05. It Might As Well Be Spring
06. It Never Entered My Mind
07. Manhattan
08. My Funny Valentine
09. There's A Small Hotel
10. This Can't Be Love
11. Thou Swell
12. You Took Advantage Of Me

(all composed by Richard Rodgers)

Personnel:

Konrad Paszkudzki - piano
Dylan Shamat - bass
Dag Markhus - drums