The first jazz recording by pianist
Mel Powell since 1955 (in the interim he gained a strong reputation as a modern classical composer), this CD also signalled the rebirth of
Hank O'Neal's Chiaroscuro label in 1989. Recorded at the Floating Jazz Festival aboard the S.S. Norway, the set features
Powell with altoist
Benny Carter, guitarist
Howard Alden, bassist
Milt Hinton and drummer
Louie Bellson performing six standard swing-era songs. Amazingly
Powell, who had rarely played jazz or much piano during the previous three decades, sounds in near-prime form and the music is quite delightful. This CD concludes with a 20-minute "Jazzspeak" in which
Powell discusses his life and his earlier decision to leave jazz. ~ Scott Yanow