Kenny Barron - New York Attitude (Uptown, 1996)

This post is by Scott and Dan

Kenny Barron (p); Rufus Reid (b); Frederick Waits (d)

Recorded on December 14, 1984

When Dan first learned of Scott's choice of Kenny Barron's New York Attitude, he began to look for it. A few weeks later, Dan found a pristine vinyl copy at a record swap meet for $3.00. (He also had a nice long chat with the 90-plus-year old man he bought it from). This is a relevant story because it speaks to the availability of outstanding records that have become our favorites, as well as the joys of meeting other aficionados. 

The LP program consists of three Barron originals, Monk's "Bemsha Swing,' George Gershwin's "Embraceable You," and the title tune. The CD reissue contains three additional tracks, including a second take of "Embraceable You." It's a nicely balanced program and contains extensive liner notes.

Like most of Barron's trio recordings, New York Attitude/Autumn in New York is swinging and tasteful. The Van Gelder recording is first rate, and the vinyl pressing is superb. 

The trio is in complete sync from beginning to end. We are particularly drawn to the presence of drummer Frederick Waits, who never led a recording session but who appeared with virtually all of the greats between 1964 and his premature death in 1989 at age 46. Waits provides a careful balance between simply accompanying his trio mates and provoking them to create more artful statements. 

The same could be said for bassist Rufus Reid, who has compiled hundreds of recording credits at age 78. "Support" players like Waits and Reid are what make the seemingly common format of the piano trio so interesting.