Rhythm Is My Business

Drummer Lewis Nash headed this loose, easy session recorded in 1989. While Nash has drawn raves for his rhythmic skill and technique, he did not dominate or really head the date. Instead, he stayed in the background smoothly filling space, keeping the beat moving, and punctuating the playing of pianist Mulgrew Miller and vibist Steve Nelson, who prove to be the date's stars. Nelson has the lush sound and bluesy qualities of Milt Jackson but can also offer probing melodies or arresting phrases. He was more lyrical than aggressive on many of these songs. Otherwise, Nash demonstrated throughout the 10 songs that rhythm truly was his business.