Max Leake's album Trios is a masterful display of jazz musicianship. The pianist is joined by bassist Tony DePaolis and drummer Tom Wendt to create a cohesive and dynamic trio that delivers a varied and engaging set of tunes.
The album opens with the upbeat and playful "Darn That Dream," which showcases Leake's skillful improvisation and the tight interplay between the trio members. They continue with a swinging rendition of "I'm Old Fashioned," which features DePaolis' melodic bass lines and Wendt's tasteful drumming.
The trio explores a range of moods and styles throughout the album, from the introspective ballad "You Don't Know What Love Is" to the Latin-inspired "Besame Mucho" and the bluesy "Cherokee." Leake's arrangements are inventive and fresh, breathing new life into these classic tunes.
One of the standout tracks is the trio's take on "My Foolish Heart," which opens with a haunting piano intro before building to a dramatic climax. Leake's virtuosic playing is on full display here, as he weaves intricate melodies and harmonies with ease.