Very Well & Good
Cornerstone, 2020
8/10
A Toronto multi-instrumentalist who stays quite busy playing piano in his hometown scene, here Richard Whiteman takes up bass as Reg Schwager holds down guitar, Amanda Tosoff handles piano and Morgan Childs sits behind the drum kit. Additional guests include Mike Murley and Pat LaBarbera on tenor saxophone, and together the players bring classical ideas to very straight forward jazz on primarily originals from Whiteman, Tosoff and drummer/pianist Andre White.
Whiteman starts the album with a pair of well crafted originals as the title track flows with glorious saxophone and warm keys as Whiteman’s deft bass anchors the tune, and “Not So Early”, which is a calmer pace of soulful piano alongside a restrained, cautious backdrop.
In the middle, “Selohssa” finds a soothing place to reside, where gorgeous guitar lines really illuminate the mood of the protest song, while “Residue” swings with a frisky rhythm and a whole lot of fun on the White tune. “Pat & Mike”, one of the album’s best, then cultivates all sorts of grooves in its dynamic and accomplished atmosphere that tips it hat to LaBarbera and Murley it title and spirit.
At the end, “Right Here, Right Now, With You” pairs playful percussion with elegant piano, and “Dancing With Zeke”, one of two songs here about Whiteman’s late Siamese cat, finishes out the listen with a sophisticated and danceable pulse in 3/4 time- an ideal tribute to the feline dancing partner.
A splendid album with no lack of solos and that’s textured with a lovely presence, Whiteman cites this as both his most personal recording to date and his best, and we’re certainly not going to disagree with that.
Travels well with: Dave Young Quartet- Ides Of March; Doxas Brothers- The Circle