At the tender age of 26, Jason Rebello is turning his back on jazz and retreating to a Buddhist monastery to pursue his spiritual vocation. As a parting shot, he leaves us with Last Dance, a final display to enhance and celebrate his considerable musical vocation. And as is the case with all last dances, he manages to put both body and soul into what is probably his finest album to date.
Last Dance pays homage to numerous inspirations. His performance on Wind In The Willows could be by Chick Corea for all its fleet lyricism, while Play Piano Play is true Garner in its approach. Add in the grandstanding Tynerish flourish of the title track, and an affection reading of Mai Waldron’s Soul Eyes, and you have touched most bases of modern piano (even Andrew Hill gets a look-in in places).
Joy Rose is almost a bonus, her caressing vocals sensitive to the nuances of melody and verse, although she can be strident at fuller volume. But Rebello is restrained behind her, and the contrast is telling. How long he chooses to retire from music will be his choice, but should he return, his already spiritual music will be considerably enhanced by his contemplation. A fine au revoir from a fine musician we don’t want to say adieu to.
Discography
Wind In The Willows; Every Little Thing*; Life Is Her Friend*; Play Piano Play; Last Dance*; Soul Eyes; I Am What You See*; Tears*; What Is This Thing Called Love?; A Foggy Day*; Adrian’s Wall*; God Bless The Child* (65.57)
Jason Rebello (p); Joy Rose (v*). Recorded London, 1995?
(All That Records ATJR001)
