Lucky to Be Me

covers a lot of territory during this trio session with bassist and drummer (both of whom have extensive resumes of playing with jazz greats), mixing standards, jazz compositions, and originals with a surprise or two. ' easygoing an obscurity from the 1940s, receives an elegant reading by the pianist, who gives plenty of space to and to solo as well. Few pianists have explored the great ' but delivers a delightful take of this upbeat gem, infusing it with his own distinctive touch. take the initial solo in the snappy take of 's with the leader showing plenty of bop chops as he takes over. also brings a fresh look to standards. His loping, whimsical take of and dreamy, spacious interpretation of prove to be memorable. If that's not enough to prompt one to purchase this rewarding CD, 's infectious tribute captures the flavor of the late bandleader, while the pianist recalls his classical roots with a magical solo rendition of from the . ~ Ken Dryden