Live At Lobero Vol 2

Description

"One of the joys of the jazz scene in Los Angeles during the 1980s and '90s was seeing pianist Horace Tapscott (1934-99) regularly lead a trio with bassist Roberto Miranda and one of several drummers. Tapscott, who had a very original sound that was based in the modern mainstream while looking forward, was closer in style to McCoy Tyner than to Bill Evans but he always had his own voice.

Oddly enough Tapscott, while featured on records leading his Pan African People's Arkestra, heading all-star combos and trios, and on a series of solo piano albums, only recorded with Miranda in a trio on one occasion. The Nov. 12, 1981 session in Santa Barbara resulted in two records originally released by Nimbus West. The Pure Pleasure label has reissued the music on two Lps.

Vol. 2 begins with "Lino's Pad", a piece in 7/4 time that has Miranda stating a six-note bass pattern much of the time with occasional departures. Tapscott, Miranda (bowing his bass), and drummer Sunship each have solos.

"Close To Freedom" is a boppish number that features the trio swinging with a celebratory mood. Miranda and Sunship are both interactive with the pianist behind his solo, driving the piece and offering melodic and rhythmic ideas that fit in with Tapscott's musical direction.

The second side of the album is completely filled up by a 22-minute version of Miranda's "St. Michael". Part of each chorus during its first part is a vamp while the remainder features the trio cooking. The music is beyond hard bop but not quite avant-garde, occupying the fertile middle ground. After the piano solo, the trio plays out of tempo, creating some thoughtful ensembles that gradually build in passion before the theme returns and Sunship concludes the music by hitting a gong.

While I wish there was much more of Tapscott and Miranda in this setting, one should be grateful that the tapes were rolling during this very musical evening." - Scott Yanow, The New York Jazz City Record