Landscape

After a long career in jazz that began with his move to New York in 1961, Kenny Barron emerged during the 1980s as one of the dominant pianists in his field, recording a series of first-rate releases for a variety of labels in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. This recording was first made for Baystate Records in Japan and was licensed by the Dutch label Limetree for issue in 1986, although it was recorded in New York. Barron's driving version of the traditional melody "Hush-A-Bye" also provides plenty of solo space for bassist Cecil McBee and a series of drum breaks for Al Foster. "Spring Is Here" is reworked as a gentle samba, while "Dear Old Stockholm," a old Swedish folk tune made popular in jazz by Stan Getz with whom Barron would later make several important live recordings, is pretty straightforward. Barron also includes two fine originals, the tantalizing "Calypso" and the very relaxing "Sunset." This first-rate effort will be appreciated by any fan of the great Kenny Barron.