After the late
Oscar Peterson,
Oliver Jones is likely one of the best-known pianists native to Canada. This concert was recorded in Baden, Switzerland in 1990, but wasn't issued until the spring of 2012. The pianist is joined by two expatriate Americans, bassist
Reggie Johnson and drummer
Ed Thigpen (who worked in
Oscar Peterson's trio) for the performance and they gel together quite nicely.
Jones' style has some
Peterson-like flourishes at times, particularly in the opening to the breezy setting of "Falling in Love with Love" and his dazzling right hand in "Emily." The pianist's robust interpretation of
Freddie Hubbard's jazz waltz "Up Jumped Spring" displays a master's touch, while his gospel roots are showcased in his energetic, extended workout of the hymn "Just a Closer Walk with Thee."
Jones also excels as a composer with his deliberate, glistening blues "Something for Chuck" and his infectious, in-the-pocket "Blues for Helen." It's hard not to invite comparisons to
Oscar Peterson in
Jones' lyrical, thoughtful solo rendition of
Thelonious Monk's "'Round Midnight." It's only fitting that
Oliver Jones concludes his set with
Peterson's dramatic, gospel-drenched "Hymn to Freedom." This concert is easily one of the high points of
Oliver Jones' discography. ~ Ken Dryden
