Pianist
Marcus Roberts and his fine trio (with bassist
David Grossman and drummer
Jason Marsalis) perform a 14-song original suite on this CD that traces the ups and downs of a longterm love affair.
Roberts, who is one of the more versatile of today's pianists, plays quite modern throughout the date while always swinging. The music is sometimes dramatic, at other times wistful or introspective, but rarely loses one's interest. It is doubtful if any of the themes will catch on as future standards (none of the melodies are all that memorable) but taken as a whole this is a thought-provoking and enjoyable set.