Luc's Lantern
"Luc's Lantern" is a bit of an anomaly in bassist William Parker's ever growing catalog. Having recorded in every conceivable format ranging from his own free jazz big band to duets with percussionist Hamid Drake, this album actually marks a first for the veritable jazz renaissance man. It is not merely a piano trio recording sans his usual cohorts; pianist Matt Shipp and the aforementioned Hamid Drake, but a straight ahead take on this venerable genre warhorse. However, because it is a Parker album, there are a few twists and turns to keep things interesting.
Newcomers Eri Yamamoto, pianist and drummer Michael Thompson were suggested as recording companions by Parker's longtime associate and Thirsty Ear Blue Series curator Matt Shipp. Fortunately the new chemistry between them is solid and an enjoyable document has been forged. Focusing primarily on short, melancholy set pieces, this introspective album is Parker's first real release of conventionally traditional material. There are a few exceptions though. "Jaki" is a swinging post-bop number, with "Bud in Alphaville" a fine tribute to the master pianist. Only on the title track does the trio launch into more aggressive territory, and then does so with aplomb.
The only real complaint one could find with this album is in Parker's own playing. Allowing the new members of his trio the lion's share of the solo space leaves little room for Parker to actually step out on his own. While his decision to allot more solo space to his new band mates is admirable, it would be nice to hear a bit more from Parker himself. That said, the album is still a solid release and possibly the best place for more mainstream minded fans to enter Parker's unique musical worldview. Troy Collins
Luc's Lantern
"Luc's Lantern" is a bit of an anomaly in bassist William Parker's ever growing catalog. Having recorded in every conceivable format ranging from his own free jazz big band to duets with percussionist Hamid Drake, this album actually marks a first for the veritable jazz renaissance man. It is not merely a piano trio recording sans his usual cohorts; pianist Matt Shipp and the aforementioned Hamid Drake, but a straight ahead take on this venerable genre warhorse. However, because it is a Parker album, there are a few twists and turns to keep things interesting.
Newcomers Eri Yamamoto, pianist and drummer Michael Thompson were suggested as recording companions by Parker's longtime associate and Thirsty Ear Blue Series curator Matt Shipp. Fortunately the new chemistry between them is solid and an enjoyable document has been forged. Focusing primarily on short, melancholy set pieces, this introspective album is Parker's first real release of conventionally traditional material. There are a few exceptions though. "Jaki" is a swinging post-bop number, with "Bud in Alphaville" a fine tribute to the master pianist. Only on the title track does the trio launch into more aggressive territory, and then does so with aplomb.
The only real complaint one could find with this album is in Parker's own playing. Allowing the new members of his trio the lion's share of the solo space leaves little room for Parker to actually step out on his own. While his decision to allot more solo space to his new band mates is admirable, it would be nice to hear a bit more from Parker himself. That said, the album is still a solid release and possibly the best place for more mainstream minded fans to enter Parker's unique musical worldview. Troy Collins