Category: Ted Rosenthal

This album was flagged to me some time ago by fellow music lover Melvin, and I must admit it is really nice.

I’ve been collecting piano trio albums for quite a while now, and this was a great new discovery for me.

Ted Rosenthal Trio: My Funny Valentine (Venus 2008)

NYC based Ted Rosenthal plays here with George Mraz and Al Foster.

This album reminds me a lot of Oscar Peterson, and actually, George Mraz at some point has played with Oscar.

This album is all about relaxed swing, some may think it is a bit too “straight”, but if you like this kind of style (e.g. Oscar Peterson’s Night Train) you should really give it a go.

Beyond Mraz, Al Foster really is the driving force behind this album. This drum legend, who has played with all of the great Jazz names from (Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson, Wayne Shorter, etc. etc., it’s nearly easier to list who he hasn’t played with).

Already the starting track is really nice: You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To, a standard I have on more than 10 albums, including Keith Jarrett (it’s on At The Blue Note), this could easily become one of my favorite versions.

Another highlight follows: the title track, My Funny Valentine, a beautiful ballad of nearly 7 minutes.

And you’ll find another great classic near the end of the album: Summertime, in a truly enjoyable version.

Recommended!

My rating: 4 stars

You can find it here (Qobuz, as 16/44 download) and here (Acoustic Sounds, the original SACD)