Ray Bryant › Hot Turkey

Personnel: Ray Bryant (piano); Major Holley (bass); Panama Francis (drums).

This fine set is (Ray Bryant's last session before signing with the Pablo label) has three selections (two swing standards plus the pianist's "Hot Turkey") played in a trio with bassist Major Holley and drummer Panama Francis. However the main reason to search for this session is to hear Bryant uplift three familiar standards ("St. Louis Blues," "Take The 'A' Train" and "Sophisticated Lady") and a blues with his soulful and swinging solo piano interpretations. Virtually every Ray Bryant album is well worth picking up for his accessible and flexible style should appeal to fans of most jazz styles. ~ Scott Yanow

Genre:

• Jazz