During his long career,
Don Friedman has recorded many memorable dates as a leader, though the veteran pianist remains a talent worthy of greater recognition. With seasoned bassist
Ron McClure, drummer
Tony Jefferson, and tenor saxophonist
Tim Armacost,
Friedman's adventurous set shows the obvious influence of
Bill Evans while also exploring a wide range of material. His harmonically advanced arrangement of "My Funny Valentine" features
Armacost on soprano sax. He puts a fresh stamp on "You Go to My Head" in a sparkling duet with
McClure.
Friedman's lush solo interpretation of "But Beautiful" is also not to be missed. The driving performance of
Tadd Dameron's "Hot House" finds the pianist initially taking a backseat to
Armacost's blazing tenor before he and
McClure make their individual statements with authority.
Mal Waldron's well-known "Soul Eyes" is a marvelous duet matching
McClure's warm arco bass with
Friedman's lush chords. The leader also brought a trio of originals to the sessions, including the upbeat "35 West 4th Street," the frenetic "Blues in a Hurry," and "Waltz for Marilyn," the latter played unaccompanied. ~ Ken Dryden