Tony Luis & Bob Freedman - Introducing the Tony Luis Trio + Piano Moods (2 EP+LP on 1 CD) (2024)

Introducing the Tony Luis Trio
Pianist Tony Luis, born in Philadelphia in 1931, was stricken with infantile paralysis at the age of 12. Having the use of only two fingers on his right hand, he was advised by a physician that consistent exercise would help to strengthen them. This is when he first became interested in the piano. His conquest of this restriction was remarkable. By using a close piano style, he was able to achieve a captivating sound that is both relaxing and swinging. His trio created considerable enthusiasm in his hometown and its environs in the mid-50s and also distinguished themselves by accompanying singers such as Terry Morel and Teddi King. These are the only recordings available from this trio. Tony plays with percussive vigor, and on a song like “You’re Blasé,” he also showed a particularly relaxed ballad feel. His creativity is shown in “Un Poco Fresco,” one of his original compositions. Tony received excellent rhythmic support from bassist Ronny Andrews and drummer Hank Nanni, both displaying fine taste and imagination, combined with a beat that is warm, fresh, and swinging.

Piano Moods Featuring the Bob Freedman Trio
Bob Freedman (1934-2018) emerged as a notable Boston jazz figure after forming his trio in 1953, which received critical acclaim in New England and recorded an album for the Savoy label. As a pianist, he remained active in the Boston jazz scene, joining groups led by Boots Mussulli, Herb Pomeroy and Jay Migliori, and accompanying Charlie Parker at the Hi-Hat club in 1955. Freedman’s innovative arrangements earned him respect and admiration in the jazz community. His first big band success came in 1958 with “And We Listened (to Him),” dedicated to Gerry Mulligan. He later joined Herb Pomeroy’s big band, writing many arrangements and recording as a leader an album featuring his excellent version of Duke Ellington’s “Anatomy of a Murder” soundtrack. From the mid-1960s, Freedman became a sought-after arranger and composer for stars such as Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan, Billy Joel, and Wynton Marsalis. His work extended to television and film, showcasing his versatility across genres. His compositions for large ensembles were particularly notable for their orchestration and dramatic expression.