Duke Pearson Trio - Profile & Tender Feelin's

2011 European CD collection.

Columbus Calvin Pearson Jr. (Atlanta, Georgia, August 17, 1932, August 4, 1980), better known as Duke Pearson, set great store by lyricism and flowing, effortless swing every time he played. I try to get to the heart of each tune, he said. I try to get to the meaning of someone elses tune. He was equally adept when scoring his own compositions or setting the work of others.

This brilliant pianist was not afraid of unabashed romanticism, a quality very much in evidence throughout his improvisations on these trio performances and expressed through his gentle, warm, almost sensuous touch. Alongside him, bassist Gene Taylors work is unfailingly impeccable, and Lex Humphries provides ample confirmation of his reputation as a sensitive, thoroughly reliable drummer.

The interaction within the group is at all times of the highest level in a virtually flawless demonstration of the art of reflective, many-faceted jazz piano trio playing.

01. Like Someone In Love
02. Black Coffee
03. Taboo
04. Im Glad There Is You
05. Gate City Blues
06. Two Mile Run
07. Witchcraft
08. Bluebird of Happiness
09. Im a Fool to Want You
10. I Love You
11. When Sonny Gets Blue
12. The Golden Striker
13. On Green Dolphin Street
14. 3 A.M.

Personnel on both albums:

Duke Pearson (p), Gene Taylor (b) and Lex Humphries (d).
Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.