Saturday, May 20, 2017

Michael Wolff - Zenith (Solo Piano) 2017


On Zenith, Michael Wolff approaches the solo piano encounter with masterly mischief, attitude and gratitude for those who came before, including John Coltrane, Charlie Parker and Jerome Kern. He also looks to present-day artists like Sufjan Stevens, makes a homegrown nod to New Orleans, and toasts his wife, noted actress and director Polly Draper.

Wolff has worked with Cannonball Adderley,Cal Tjader and Nancy Wilson; led the TV band on Arsenio Hall's late night show, and led his own trios and expanded groups. But this one (by only one) just might feature some of his best playing yet.


SIDE 1
The Doc (Michael Wolff)
Giant Steps (John Coltrane)
Makin’ Whoopee (Walter Donaldson / Gus Kahn)
Flint (Sufjan Stevens)
Euphoria (Michael Wolff)
All the Things You Are (Jerome Kern)
Blue Couch (Michael Wolff)

SIDE 2
Billie’s Bounce (Charlie Parker)
Cry Me a River (Arthur Hamilton)
Little M (Michael Wolff)
Madimba / St. Thomas (Michael Wolff / Sonny Rollins)
Polly (Michael Wolff)
Too Long at the Fair (Billy Barnes)
Hush (Michael Wolff)