Johnny O'Neal, Dave Young and Terry Clarke - Soulful Swinging (1997)

Pianist Johnny O'Neal, a native of Detroit, teams up with Canadian bassist Dave Young and (on four of the seven numbers) drummer Terry Clarke during a well-rounded set. Although largely self-taught, O'Neal often sounds a bit like his idol Oscar Peterson. Highlights of the continually swinging trio set include a 9½-minute version of "You're Looking At Me," "Night Mist Blues" and "Ain't Misbehavin'." This small-label release (which has not yet reappeared on CD) is O'Neal's definitive recording to date.

Review by Scott Yanow