Roger Kellaway Meets the Duo: Gene Bertoncini and Michael Moore

Although Roger Kellaway, Gene Bertoncini, and Michael Moore had been friends for a while, they really hadn't played much as a trio until they were spotted together at the late lamented Zinno's in New York City in 1992. Before the month was over, this studio session was completed. Bertoncini and Moore have long been known for their work together, but the addition of Kellaway's eclectic piano adds a new dimension to the group. Bertoncini's wild, difficult to label "Soflee" is a superb opener, darting from its initially challenging Tristano-like bop theme to realms of other influences, with great solos all around. The pianist contributes the haunting "Heat of the Night," showcasing Moore's matchless arco bass. But the bassist steals the top prize for composition with his bittersweet gem "Old New Waltz," a beautiful melody that has "jazz standard" written all over it. Bertoncini's lyrical acoustic guitar makes this interpretation of "Estate" one for the ages. The closing "Jazzspeak" track gives the musicians an opportunity to explain in their own words how the CD came about and the unique chemistry of the trio. There's not one track within the CD that is less than excellent.