"Weekend At Smalls" on CD brings together three outstanding voices of contemporary jazz: pianist David Kikoski, drummer Billy Hart and bassist Joe Martin. Recorded in the intimate, club-like atmosphere suggested by its title, the album captures the energy, spontaneity and interplay of a top-tier modern jazz piano trio. Expect a mix of sophisticated original compositions and creative readings of the jazz tradition, with fluid improvisations, rich harmonies and a deeply responsive rhythm section that breathes with every phrase. The sound is warm and direct, placing you right in front of the band and highlighting the subtle nuances between the musicians. "Weekend At Smalls" is aimed at discerning jazz listeners who appreciate both lyrical depth and rhythmic drive, making it a compelling addition to any serious jazz CD collection.
David Kikoski has long been regarded as one of the most versatile and inventive jazz pianists of his generation, known for his powerful touch, harmonic imagination and ability to move effortlessly between straight-ahead swing, modern post-bop and more exploratory textures. Billy Hart, a legendary drummer across several eras of jazz, has worked with many of the music's most influential figures and is admired for his sensitive, textural playing and his unique sense of time. Joe Martin is a highly respected bassist on the contemporary scene, valued for his warm tone, impeccable intonation and melodic approach to both accompaniment and soloing. Together they form a trio that balances tradition and innovation, often praised in the jazz world for its musical depth and cohesion.
Cellar Live is an independent jazz label dedicated to capturing authentic, artist-driven performances with a focus on acoustic sound and musical integrity. Emerging from a strong club and live-performance culture, the label is known for releasing recordings that feel immediate and unfiltered, as if the listener were seated in the front row. With carefully curated projects and a roster that spans established masters and emerging talents, Cellar Live has earned a reputation among jazz aficionados for high-quality productions that honor the artistry of improvising musicians. "Weekend At Smalls" fits perfectly into this philosophy, documenting a living, breathing moment in today's jazz landscape and preserving it in a format that invites repeated, deep listening.
Modern
32.341
- AcidJazz/DanceJazz 107- Avantgarde/Free 981- Bebop 109- Bossa Nova 338- Cool 75- Hard Bop 155- Jazz Rock/Fusion 748- Latin Jazz 1.002- Other Modern Jazz 27.366- PopJazz/SmoothJazz 795- World-&Ethno-Ja. 443
