Meet the Magical Trio

James Williams

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Meet the Magical Trio Review

by Scott Yanow

While the first two Magical Trio sessions teamed pianist James Williams with classic veterans (bassist Ray Brown and either Art Blakey or Elvin Jones on drums), this outing matches him with a couple of talented younger musicians: bassist Charnett Moffett and drummer Jeff Watts. But, despite the change in personnel, the advanced straightahead music is not all that different from the earlier dates. Once again Williams contributes a few originals (four this time including a remake of "Arioso") and uplifts some older tunes. Highlights include Thad Jones' "Fingers," John Coltrane's "Lazybird" and a solo medley of "Single Petal of A Rose" and "A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing." Easily recommended.

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