Larry Willis - Just in Time - VINYL LP

Just in Time is a long-overdue spotlight on one of jazz's most quietly influential pianists. Recorded in 1989 with Bob Cranshaw on bass and Kenny Washington on drums, this trio session captures Willis's lyrical touch, harmonic depth, and rhythmic sophistication in full bloom.Willis's career began with a voice solo in Aaron Copland's The Second Hurricane under Leonard Bernstein, but jazz soon claimed him. By 19, he was playing with Jackie McLean and Hugh Masekela, and later with Stan Getz, Cannonball Adderley, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. His style-rooted in Bill Evans, Wynton Kelly, and Herbie Hancock-melds cerebral modernism with soulful hard bop.The album features a mix of standards and originals, including the swinging title track, the introspective InchSoul Search,Inch and the Monk-inspired InchT's Bag Blues.Inch His Latin-tinged InchTe Quiero Mi HermanoInch and homage to Herbie Hancock on InchOne Finger SnapInch reveal a pianist deeply attuned to rhythm and tradition.Critic Russ Musto writes, InchConsidering the pianist's continuous growth in forty years of playing, I'd say it's timing is prime. I'll take it now. And look to the future for more.Inch Willis himself praises Cranshaw's ballad work and calls Washington Inchperhaps the finest young drummer to come along in a long time.InchG1251 is not just timely-it's timeless. A must-have for collectors and a revelation for new listeners.Inch.Larry Willis plays piano with style, soul and a constant stream of heart.Inch (Jerome Wilson, Cadence)