Enrico Pieranunzi
is one of the most recognized
jazz
pianists in Europe, but he doesn't get enough exposure in the United States, since he has recorded almost exclusively for European-based labels. These sessions are a bit unusual since the pianist omits a bass player, utilizing only veteran drummer
Paul Motian
, with saxophonist
Chris Potter
guesting on three tracks. All of
Pieranunzi
's compositions were written specifically for these studio sessions, while
"Double Excursion"
consists of three separate
improvisations
, all of which sizzle.
Potter
's tenor sax is added for the mournful
"Doorways,"
with
Motian
's drumming providing a bit of tension.
"Blue Evening"
is in the same mold, though with
sitting it out.
returns for the turbocharged
"Anecdote,"
which dabbles in the
avant-garde
. None of this music can be fairly evaluated with just a single hearing, though anyone who is familiar with these musicians should take the time to do so. ~ Ken Dryden