Stanley Cowell was already a talented pianist at the time of his recording debut as a leader in 1969, but this 1990 trio session for Steeplechase demonstrates a seasoned artist whose chops had grown tremendously. His remakes of two compositions from his first release, "Departure #2" and "Photon in the Paperworld," seem light years ahead of the original versions. He has yet another salute to
Art Tatum, the greatest pianist of them all, with a rollicking trio interpretation of "Just One of Those Things" that overwhelms the listener with his cascading runs. On the other hand, his easygoing approach to
Charlie Parker's "Relaxin' at Camarillo" finds him taking a backseat for the first few choruses as he showcases bassist Bob Cranshaw. His sensitive renditions of ballads like
Duke Ellington's "Prelude to a Kiss" and
Benny Golson's infrequently performed "Voices All" merit praise. Whether on sticks or brushes, drummer
Keith Copeland adds just the right touch to this outstanding studio date. ~ Ken Dryden