Standards III
Infinite, 2025
9/10
The inimitable pianist Noah Haidu is joined by some serious talent for this debut with a new band that features 11 modern jazz tracks.
Haidu’s lively keys start the energetic “Yesterdays”, where Gervis Myles’ animated bass line won’t go unnoticed, and “Lover” follows with an indeed romantic spirit via Charles Goold’s agile drumming that suits the flowing piano.
Further along, “A Child Is Born” places Billy Hart on drums and Buster Williams on bass for the intimate climate, while Lewis Nash’s frisky drums and Steve Wilson’s radiant alto sax make “Slipstream” the album’s best.
Close to the end, Haidu’s meticulous keys are front and center for the melodic and stylish “Stevie W.”, and “Teach Me Tonight” exits with emotive piano, light drums and moody bass surrounding the cautious spirit of the heartfelt finish.
This 3rd installment from Haidu is just as exceptional as the first 2, where luminaries from the New York scene help him explore grooves, melody and adventurousness.
Travels well with: John Yao & His 17 Piece Instrument- Points In Time; Julian Shore Trio- Sub Rosa