• 4 stars all music guide

John Taylor has long been one of the top modern jazz pianists in the British jazz scene. When featured in a trio, as he is on 2004's Angel of the Presence, he can often sound close to both Keith Jarrett and Bill Evans. That is the case on this CD even though neither Evans nor Jarrett ever performed this material, comprised of originals by Taylor, Steve Swallow and Kenny Wheeler. The modern structures challenge Taylor, but he consistently comes up with melodic and thoughtful ideas. Taylor works closely with bassist Palle Danielsson and the subtle drummer Martin France to create moody music that has its own logic. It is well worth several close listens.

PERSONNEL:

JOHN TAYLOR, piano
PALLE DANIELSSON, bass
MARTIN FRANCE, drums

Ludwigsburg, Germany, October 17-18, 2004.

TRACKS:

01. Up Too Late
02. Dry Stone
03. In Cologne
04. Sweet Dulcinea
05. Vaguely Asian
06. Fable
07. Afterthought
08. Intro To No Particular Song