Brazilian pianist
Helio Alves joins forces with bassist
Santi Debriano and drummer
Matt Wilson for this inspired studio session. His "Frenzy" is well named, beginning with an insistently repeated motif before taking off in an uptempo post-bop direction. "Sambetinho" is a delicious samba in which
Alves' dancing licks are complemented by
Wilson's imaginative percussion and
Debriano's spacious bassline. "Loose Samba" has a Latin flavor but breaks loose from the normal rhythmic constraints of the style. "Song for Anna" is a delicate jazz waltz dedicated to the composer's young daughter.
Alves' approach to well-known compositions is equally fascinating. "Angel Eyes" is far faster than typical recordings, played as a bop vehicle with
Wilson's creative percussion challenging the leader for the spotlight. His sensitive interpretation of
Steve Swallow's "Falling Grace" showcases
Debriano's flawless arco bass, while
Alves occasionally hints at the influence of the late Bill Evans in his post-bop rendition of
Michel Legrand's masterpiece "You Must Believe in Spring." Warmly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden