Jazz pianist Bob Rodriguez & his group know what to do with tempo, i.e. 'ad-lib,' 'Rubato' et al. The nuance of 'outside' & 'tension' apply, as Bob interprets some very solid standards. I call attention in particular to his ethereal take of the great standard, 'Spring Is Here.' We are held captive to his musical definition of the song. Rodriguez's piano solo style is angular yet dissonant. He delivers his music with a presence that is almost speech-like in intonation. Rodriguez & his group offer us a wealth of gifted ideas for our instruction.
ARTISTS Bob Rodriguez (piano); Mike Richmond (bass); Eliot Zigmund (drums)