Misha Paitigorsky, Freddy Bryant and Gilad
Twinz Records TWR 599
P.O. Box 4003
River Edge, NJ 07661
www.twinzrecords.com

I grew up in an era when groups were playing a wide variety of jazz. Some were concentrating on straight-ahead swing, some on be-bop, and others experimented with "free jazz." During that time, the Modern Jazz Quartet was playing a style known as "Parlor Jazz." They were one of the first small groups with complex arrangements. Each was a terrific solo player and the resulting music was outstanding. Trio Del Sol immediately brought the memory of MJQ back to me.

This group of fine musicians is comprised of Freddie Bryant on guitar, Misha Paitigorsky on piano, and Gilad on percussion and Hungarian flute. The recording is all original compositions, each player contributes to its authorship.

"Dance Of The Chilean Turtles" opens the disc with a Latin feel, moving from minor to major chords by way of soothing rhythmic punctuations. Bryant takes the first solo and his lines flow through the chord changes lightly and effortlessly. "Freddy In The Jungle" begins with a heavy funky guitar introduction. The melody is played in unison by guitar and piano and contains an unexpected series of modulation. Gilad shines on this number providing the perfect rhythmic compliment to the other players.

"Gente Del Sol" has Paitigorsky opening with a beautiful solo section followed by Bryant adding an energetic flamenco-style to the mix. The Spanish feel continues as the players explore the harmonies freely in their improvised lines. Other titles include "Promises," "Drum On, Drum On," and "Heaven."

Twinz Records describes its focus as dedicated to helping artists present to their audience new directions in jazz. Their list of legends includes Lionel Hampton and Cedar Walton. Contemporary artists signed with Twinz include bassist Eddie Gomez and guitarist Thomas Carbou.

Trio Del Sol is an acoustic blend of three excellent musicians from entirely different cultures and backgrounds. Together they mold their influences to provide touches of classical, flamenco, funk, and jazz. This is a listening experience that provides opportunities to be stimulated on many levels. The tunes can be analyzed or merely enjoyed as background music. Either way it is truly fine quality music that is highly recommended.