A collection of
Marian McPartland trio recordings from 1952-1953, Timeless offers only 13 tracks, but they are certainly quality recordings at that.
McPartland is heard in the studio and on six live recordings by
Rudy Van Gelder made at the Hickory House in New York City. The cool-toned bop pianist begins playfully ("Strike Up the Band"), but also contributes ruminative explorations of "It Might as Well Be Spring" and "Gypsy in My Soul." Her solos are precise and very enjoyable, and the varying groups behind
McPartland provide her with a strong foundation. With few collections available that chart this period, Timeless is an important release. ~ John Bush