Frozen Music

One in a long line of great CDs by Andy LaVerne for Steeplechase, this 1989 quartet session features the pianist with tenor saxophonist Rick Margitza, bassist Marc Johnson, and drummer Danny Gottlieb. All nine tracks are originals by the leader, starting with the smoking post-bop "Numero Uno," which features hot solos by both LaVerne and Margitza. The loping "North Country" suggests someone singing to himself during a late-night stroll. "Satan Doll" is a humorous, topsy-turvy reworking of Duke Ellington's hit song "Satin Doll." The oddly titled "Decorative Trends" is not some wimpy new age piece but instead a sultry samba. Margitza switches to soprano sax for the introspective, somewhat haunting ballad "Frozen Music." Both Johnson and Gottlieb provide first-rate support throughout this very rewarding studio date. ~ Ken Dryden