Kenny Werner - Beyond the Forest of Mirkwood (1981)

Kenny Werner's second release under his name (first issued by Enja and Inner City on LP as by Ken Werner) is one of the best kept secrets in his extensive discography. On this beautifully recorded album of solo piano, his seven originals show a lot of depth, especially the mystical "Beyond the Forest of Mirkwood." Werner's "R.C.'s" is an eclectic work in the mold of Jaki Byard, incorporating a bit of uptempo stride. Initially, "Conquest" has a pastoral air, though Werner turns it into a virtuoso showpiece. Finally reissued on CD in 2004, this should be considered one of Kenny Werner's essential recordings. © Ken Dryden