Remaining just a bit below the radar scans of all but the most astute jazz followers, New Yorker Pete
Malinverni has recorded a total of four albums now for the Reservoir label and each one has spoken
eloquently for a greater appreciation of his gifts.
His most recent is Autumn in New York (Reservoir
171) and once again the pianist has the advantage of claiming two wonderful section mates as part
of the proceedings: bassist Dennis Irwin and drummer Leroy Williams. The opening
“Simpatico” not only sums up in a word the chemistry honed by this trio but also introduces us to
Malinverni’s strong bop-inflected style, marked by a fleet right hand.
Three other originals can be found among a few select standards. “Elegy” was penned to honor
friends who perished on
September 11th, and like “Contemplative” it explores more reflective areas of the pianist’s musical
personality. By contrast, “Little David” is an up tempo romp which sports long flowing phrases
accented by dense block chords from Malinverni’s left hand. Irwin is as rock solid as ever, but it's
Williams who continues to impress as a major talent who should have risen to major star status
years ago based on his work of the past decade.
For related reviews, see
8 On 88: New
Releases in the Piano Trio Format.
~ Chris Hovan
