Tim Ray Trio - Windows (2016) [Hi-Res]

“McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, Duke Ellington and Horace Silver are but a handful of the geniuses that pianist Tim Ray (Lyle Lovett, Gary Burton) pays loving tribute to on Windows, a marvelous collection of trio music featuring John Lockwood (bass) and Mark Walker (drums). And the list goes on: Monk, Jarrett, Hancock … Ray is clearly beholden to his heroes, but also brave enough to step outside the homage to make his own way, as evidenced by a couple of originals he includes here, written with Lockwood. Ray handles all the arrangements, and all are beautifully improvised and artfully interplayed, as you would expect from such a talented bunch. Ray, Lockwood, and Walker have logged some miles together, not to mention ample studio sessions. A tip of the fedora to these inimitable artists, Windows is a fitting tribute to transcendent, piano-forged material. Ray knows the way well enough to drive around a bit, test the roads, and open it up on a straightaway. All we can do then is enjoy the ride.”