Cyrus Chestnut - There's a Sweet, Sweet Spirit

With the fleetness of Bud Powell and his own distinctive two-handed lushly impressionistic harmonies, Cyrus offers an imaginative set list with his long-time friends Buster Williams and Lenny White and together they breathe new life into the venerable jazz piano trio format.

A decorated veteran of the Betty Carter Trio, pianist Cyrus Chestnut came out the experience relatively unscathed with a style and directive clearly his own. It's one steeped in the gospel church traditions of his native Baltimore, but also enlivened by an open ear aimed at a multitude of other influences. He has enjoyed stints with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Vanessa Williams, Freddie Hubbard and Joe Lovano. He also speaks fondly of his valuable tenures with vocalists Jon Hendricks and Joe Williams.

Personnel: Cyrus Chestnut (piano), Buster Williams (bass), Lenny White (drums) with Steve Nelson (vibes)