Simon's piano playing is stunning, whether running fast, or playing the beautiful, themes that create a calming backdrop for his ensemble.

The pianist uses many elements, not the least of which are his Venezuelan heritage, classical and modern jazz background, and subtle dynamics on this ten-cut, 65-minute program. Simon's piano playing is stunning, whether running fast, hard lines or playing the beautiful, repetitive themes that create a calming backdrop for his ensemble. Saxophonists Mark Turner, in a Coltrane-Brecker combo style on tenor, and Dave Binney, a bit more individualistic on alto, lay a foundation for the others, do their own fair share of improvising, and give the music a tuneful center. They are most effective on the minimal intro'd, gossip-chattery sound of 'Uncertainty' fueling Simon's ultra-melodic Don Grolnick-like piano musings. It's new contemporary jazz with many unconventional twists and turns, and marks a growth curve in the pianist/composers blossoming career.

Track Listing

• The Prayer
• Uncertainty
• The Process
• El Manisero – Part1
• La Bikina
• Quinta Anauco
• The Cha Cha
• Ericka
• El Manisero – Part2

Additional Details

Label: Red Records

Genre: Jazz

Run Time: 67 mins

Release Date: 04/13/11

UPC: 027312331523