Montreux Alexander: The Monty Alexander Trio Live ! at The Montreux Festival

Description

The live recording from the festival on Lake Geneva is considered one of the classic piano trio albums of the 1970s and also a milestone in the catalog of the Jamaican pianist. This 1976 recording captured nothing less than the moment in Alexander's young career that ultimately placed him on equal footing with giants like Oscar Peterson. His playing combines the skills of his Canadian colleague with a Caribbean feel and a touch of gospel. The then relatively unknown accompanists, bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, form a rhythm section with a high degree of independence and sharp solos. Many moments of the performance inevitably captivate the listener: whether it's the introduction with the blues-inspired variations on an Ahmad Jamal composition, or the moving contemplation of Feelings. The swing of Ellington's Satin Doll is exuberant, the gospel of Drown In My Own Tears is played with great intensity. The Afro vibe of Work Song, in which Clayton's virtuosity expresses itself in the highest registers, is downright archaic. The Battle Hymn Of The Republic stands out as a classic in its own right with its both playful and affable dramaturgy. Even after four decades, the magic of that night in Montreux is still within reach.