Danish jazz pianist
Kasper Villaume's fifth CD as a leader finds him continuing to explore a mix of standards, popular jazz compositions, and his own originals. With two Americans (saxophonist
Chris Potter and drummer Ali Jackson) plus fellow countryman
Chris Minh Doky on bass along for the ride, they jump headfirst into a rousing rendition of
Thelonious Monk's "Green Chimneys," with percolating solos by the leader and
Potter. Their extended workout of
George Gershwin's "Gone" is a brisk, breezy vehicle showcasing
Potter's soprano sax in a playful setting.
Villaume captures the bittersweet air of
Bobby Troup's "The Meaning of the Blues" with a superb trio arrangement that also features
Doky to good effect and is complemented by Jackson's subtle percussion.
Villaume's compositions are also noteworthy. "Captain Kirkland" is a smoldering uptempo blues, while it's hard not to be caught up in the ominous sound of the dark but swinging "Hands."
Doky, who also produced the CD, contributed the equally tense "The Sniper," though its fast tempo doesn't seem to fit its title. The chemistry between the musicians is readily apparent throughout this well-recorded and thoroughly enjoyable session. ~ Ken Dryden