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Presenting Michael Weiss ~ Michael Weiss Quintet | By Eddie Carter

It’s always a pleasure when I discover a new pianist, and this morning’s subject is a recent addition to my library by a young man named Michael Weiss. Presenting Michael Weiss (Criss Cross Jazz 1022) is his first album as a leader and was released in 1986. Michael was born in Dallas, Texas, and began studying music at Indiana University, where he earned his degree. Michael later moved to New York, where he played with Jon Hendricks and as a sideman in some of the best jazz groups. He’s joined here by Tom Kirkpatrick on trumpet, Ralph Lalama on tenor sax, Ray Drummond on bass and Kenny Washington on drums. My copy is the original Netherlands Stereo album.

My Melancholy Baby by Ernie Burnett and George A. Norton starts with the quintet’s mid-tempo theme. Tom leads off with a relaxing interpretation. Ralph gets to the song’s heart in the next reading. Michael responds with a comforting solo. Ray makes a concise comment, and the front line engages in a conversation ahead of the finale. Washington introduces the pianist’s Après Vous, segueing into the ensemble’s brisk melody. Lalama takes the song’s first energetic flight, followed by Kirkpatrick’s dazzling tone in the second solo. Weiss heads to new heights next, and Washington delivers the finale in an exchange with both horns until the conclusion.

Enigma is a beautiful ballad by J.J. Johnson that Michael brings to life with a passionately tender introduction, which blossoms into the song’s gorgeous opening chorus. The pianist has the spotlight to himself in the song’s only solo and delivers an exceptionally gentle reading preceding the ensemble’s delicate climax. Side Two starts with the tempo moving back upward for Tom Kirkpatrick’s blues, B.G.O. After the quintet’s leisurely paced theme, Kirkpatrick establishes a happy groove on the opening solo. Lalama returns the compliment on the next reading, and then Weiss takes a delightful turn. Washington shares the finale with the front line, leading to the reprise and finish.

Riverbed by Joe Zawinul is a very pretty song and the album’s only trio performance. Michael takes the lead on the melody and opening statement. Ray comes in next for a few flowing lines, and Kenny keeps perfect time in the closer before the trio takes the song out. Gallop’s Gallop is one of Thelonious Monk’s little-known tunes, and the quintet pays homage to him with a quirky melody reminiscent of Monk himself. Weiss steps up first for a delightful performance, and then Kirkpatrick has a bit of fun on the following solo. Lalama serves up a delicious reading next. Drummond takes a short walk with the bass, and Washington provides the final treat into the closing chorus.

Gerry Teekens produced Presenting Michael Weiss, and Rudy Van Gelder was the recording engineer. The album’s sound quality is excellent, with an outstanding soundstage that’s stunning from start to finish and gives the listener the best seat in the house as the musicians are playing. Michael Weiss recorded five releases as a leader and appeared on just a few more as a sideman. However, if you’re in the mood for post-bop and are a jazz piano fan, I invite you to check out Presenting Michael Weiss on your next record-shopping trip. It’s a wonderful album of great playing and tight musicianship that’s sure to whet any jazz fan’s appetite to hear more!

~ My Melancholy Baby – Source: JazzStandards.com
© 2023 by Edward Thomas Carter



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