(piano/arranger) began his illustrious relationship with on the pair of July 21 and 27, 1955, dates needed to complete the eight sides for (1955). commands a trio that also presents the talents of (bass) and (drums) on all the tracks sans which appropriately enough features an unaccompanied piano. The delicacy and inherently intricate melodies that is best known for are perfectly matched to 's angular and progressive interpretations. The combo are comfortable behind the pianist who remains somewhat subdued, if not arguably tentative, during the opening of although by his solo, eases into some nice give and take with a playful , whose steady bounce undeniably congeals the unit's sound. takes the refined grace of into a virtually unsurpassed strata as his seemingly disjointed notes organically coalesce into a simply stunning, yet stark introduction, with 's understated backbeat allowing room for to embellish and thoroughly adorn. The dark optimism of stands out as another perfect combination of music and musician. is a fun little romp with taking some tricky and rhythmically unanticipated side trips throughout his nimble and rollicking leads. is a gem as 's sinuous trapwork becomes a perfect foil for 's buoyant basslines. It also reels in 's animated keyboard antics. is a recommended title for all dimension of enthusiast. However, and aficionados may rate it slightly higher. ~ Lindsay Planer