In a recent interview, Jarrett remarked that for some time he ‘had wanted to pay homage to the music that is our (the trio’s) tribal language, the music with which we grew up’ (Jazz Hot, Jul-Aug 1985). In returning to the familiar forms of standard popular songs, Jarrett has turned his back (temporarily?) on lengthy solo improvisations, simultaneously seeking refuge in the trusted formats of a jazz trio for his improvisations and a classical repertoire for his solo concert performances: While this might imply a certain lack of confidence in his previous solo work, there is nothing in the two volumes of standards – recorded at a session in January 1983, the first volume appearing later that year – to suggest any diminution of Jarrett’s considerable powers.
Of the two sets, Volume 2 is the more satisfactory, largely because it is far less self-indulgent than its partner. There are no histrionics, no hyperbole or overstatement. Just good muscular playing by a trio that exudes empathy, tackling a set of songs that are clearly defined melodies rather than just vehicles for prolonged soloing. Jarrett sticks closely to the melody, embellishing with discretion and always to effect, while Peacock and DeJohnette provide finely tuned support.
All the pieces are first takes, but there is nothing rough or ready here. As with Vol 1, this set will need no recommendation to Jarrett fans, but it deserves to be heard by a wider audience than that.
Discography
So Tender; Moon And Sand; In Love In Vain (23.16) – Never Let Me Go; If I Should Lose You; I Fall In Love Too Easily (21.23)
Keith Jarrett (p); Gary Peacock (b); Jack DeJohnette (d). Recorded January, 1983, Power Station, New York City.
(ECM 1289)
