Best of 2016 #21: Edward Simon – “Latin American Songbook” (Sunnyside)

 

Latin American Songbook are the memories from Edward Simon‘s childhood.  The pianist grew up listening to these songs in his native Venezuela, and now, much older and living in New York City, he performs his own renditions, bringing together the nostalgia from the memories and the reality of how he hears these pieces in the present day.  The result is a mix of faithful renditions and inventive recreations.  Simon has always displayed a nifty talent for developing an active chatter on piano while also being patiently expressive, and that quality is in full display on his 2016 release.  Bassist Joe Martin and drummer Adam Cruz round on the trio on this excellent session.

Artist site | Listen | Available at:  BandcampAmazoneMusic

Jazz from NYC.

Read more about the album with my Best of Bandcamp Jazz column on The Bandcamp Daily (LINK).