David Kikoski - Kayemode

Since his first appearance on record (Randy Brecker's album 'In the Idiom'), pianist David Kikoski has demonstrated an infinite capacity to swing, a rare sensitivity as a ballad interpreter and genuine harmonic savvy as a composer. He delivers once again on all counts on 'Kayemode'.

Kikoski says: I'm very proud and lucky to have 2 new collaborators in my trio. I met Justin Faulkner on a Monday night at the Jazz Standard where I play with the Charles Mingus Big Band and was very impressed. Soon after we really hooked up on a gig with Branford Marsalis and I remember thinking I would love to try and use him on my own project. We had a ball hanging at my house and shedding and listening to music.

Joe Martin was someone we both agreed on to be the perfect bassist for the session. I recently heard him at Mezzrow with Spike Wilner and was blown away. His use of harmony and counterpoint is more advanced than most bass players I've known. I knew he could get inside of my concept.

We are using 1st or 2nd takes with no fixing or editing, because I wanted the freshness and honesty to be there.

Personnel: David Kikoski (piano), Joe Martin (bass), Justin Faulkner (drums)