The emphasis is on ballads during this program despite an occasional departure. Pianist
Bernardo Sassetti and his Trio 2 (which is really a quintet) feature strong contributions from vibraphonist Jean-Francois Leze and especially cellist Ajda Zupancio. Much of their music is quietly emotional and tinged with melancholy while never being sleepy. While one can think of some similarities to
Bill Evans,
Sassetti has a fairly original conception and can be quite dramatic.
Ascent is a subtle recital that grows in interest with each listen. ~ Scott Yanow