Facing the Truth is pianist
Julie Lamontagne's first trio recording and features original compositions. The Montreal, Canada-based pianist is the recipient of numerous awards and has studied with such notable pianists as Fred Hersh and Garry Dial. The CD features the surging, restless energy of the youthful pianist on such excellent recordings as "For Months," her gentle, slow build to the powerful lyricism on "Vagabonde," and the sassy attitude of "Hank Dog." This is an excellent recording that will have you, dear listener,
Facing the Truth about these talented musicians. Ten different compositions that share influences such as
Bill Evans,
Thelonious Monk,
Dave Brubeck, and
Lorraine Desmarais prove
Lamontagne's value as a performer and her integrity as a composer. Each song is filled with a variety of jazz elements, thoughtful improvisations, and a ripe group dynamic that makes this trio a pleasure to listen to. The acoustic bass skills of
Dave Watts and Richard Irwin's gymnastic drumming further enhance the listener's appreciation for this solid trio. On "CCM" they will carry you away with their hard bop grooves, vamps, and modernism. Overall, this recording is intelligent, easy to enjoy, and a sound documentation of
Julie Lamontagne's ever-increasing talents as a musician. ~ Paula Edelstein