Heart’s Pace
Bent River, 2025
8/10
The Canadian pianist Josh Rager is joined by Peter Bernstein, Alec Walkington and Rich Irwin for these originals and standards that embrace plenty of timeless jazz ideas.
“I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face” starts with Rager’s warm piano and Walkington’s agile bass illuminating the melodic mood, and “Centered” follows with Berstein’s quick guitar that suits the upbeat climate of authentic jazz.
Halfway through, “Fathers And Son” allows for Rager’s pretty keys to shine amid the light delivery, while “Ebb And Flow” showcases playful bass plucking and Irwin’s crisp drumming for 7+ minutes of harmonic and radiant musicianship.
“Within Reach” arrives late and offers intimacy via the reflective interaction between the quartet, and “Dreamsville” exits with an indeed dreamy demeanor thanks to the cozy guitar, sophisticated keys and charming rhythm section.
A soulful, harmonic and timeless body of work, Rager and company are versed in both swinging and ballad territory, as evidenced by this meticulous record.
Travels well with: Ben Markley- Tell The Truth; Live Edge Trio- Closing Time