Noah Haidu Standards Review by Gary Hill After scanning small snippets of this album, I had decided that it was close enough to fusion to include it under the prog heading, where we land fusion. Well, in listening to the whole release I changed my mind. This is much more traditional jazz. It’s very strong no matter the classification, though. I really like this a lot.
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Track by Track Review
Old Folks
A traditional jazz arrangement gets this underway. It has a great groove and vibe to it as it works forward. This gets pretty intense in some of the jamming later.
Just in Time
Coming in more energetic and driving, this again has a lot of traditional jazz in the mix. Now, this one does work toward more adventurous territory than the opener did. The drummer (Lewis Nash) really gets some opportunities to shine.
Beautiful Friendship
The rhythm section starts things here and holds it for a time. I really love the bass work on this so much. The whole tune just oozes jazz cool and style.
All the Way
More or less a piano solo, this is a mellower cut. It’s satisfying and provides some contrast against the more intense stuff.
Someday My Prince Will Come
Another fairly traditional jazz number, this has some good grooves and cool instrumental work.
You and the Night and the Music
Now, this powerhouse stomper lands closer to the fusion zone. It’s absolutely on fire. This is one of the most adventurous tracks here, and one of my favorites on the disc.
Ana Maria
More pure melodic jazz is on the menu here. This is a solid tune that is stands tall among the other music here.
Skylark
Here we get a pure piano solo. It’s not as mellow as “All the Way” was, though. This has some healthy energy and great vibes.
Thought About You
This is a fun romp that almost sounds like a live recording. It includes some cool bass soloing. This thing gets pretty intense before it’s over.
Last Dance I
Another piano solo, this is powerful and enchanting.
Last Dance II
This one comes as a piano solo that is just oozing charm. It grows out from there as other instruments join. This is one that at times leans a little more heavily on the fusion side of the equation, but it never really crosses that line. This has some of the best jamming of the whole disc for me. In fact, it’s one of my favorite pieces here.
