Solo

Album review

Since arriving on the jazz scene in the 1990s, pianist Lynne Arriale demonstrated growth as an interpreter and composer. This solo outing will likely become one of the landmark recordings of her career. Starting with her dramatic modal composition "La Noche," which draws the listener in quickly with it infectious theme, Arriale immediately follows it with her relaxing, pastoral ballad "The Dove." Her gorgeous "Arise" has a meditative air. The pianist's quirky, midtempo blues "Yada, Yada, Yada" is full of delightful twists, with its staccato chords and playful nature. She tackles two songs by Thelonious Monk, including an introspective rendition of "Evidence" with a sublime, understated conclusion. Her amusing, choppy take of "Bye-Ya" has a sassy flavor that catches the playfulness of its composer, something often overlooked by interpreters. Her lyricism is at its peak in her spacious treatment of the show tune "Wouldn't It Be Loverly." The old warhorse "What Is This Thing Called Love" is a mandatory part of every jazz musician's repertoire, yet Arriale still finds a fresh path in her driving post-bop setting of this standard. She has much to be proud of with Solo.

© Ken Dryden /TiVo