Tale Of The Fingers

Dave Young - bass; Barry Elmes - drums; Cedar Walton - piano

Bremond's Blues; Just In Time; Sweet And Lovely; Tale Of The Fingers; Lost In The Stars; Down in The Middle; Keep It Moving; The Night Is Long; A Bell For Bags; Ode To The Southwest

Liner Notes:
The piano trio has become a monumental institution in jazz history no matter what style of musical content. Oscar Peterson, Tommy Flanagan, Barry Harris, Oliver Jones, Kenny Barron, Ellis Marsalis, John Hicks, Mulgrew Miller, Renee Rosnes, Cyrus Chestnut and Cedar Walton have a lot in common. They have set an incredibly high standard. All of them swing like crazy, have an obsession with the "groove" and are in love with great bass players. Celebrated Canadian bassist, Dave Young is one of those revered bassists that has recorded with all of them. Tale Of The Fingers is his seventh recording under his own name.This particular recording features one of the most consistent, swinging, and lyrical pianists, Cedar Walton, and the swinging, tasteful drummer, Barry Elmes throughout. If you are familiar with the jazz trio setting, your expectations are high. You will certainly not be disappointed. The groove is the prime directive from start to finish.Dave has chosen excellent musical material with a good balance of varied tempos and moods. You will hear the familiar "nuggets" from the american song book, i.e.: "Just In Time" and "Sweet And Lovely," to bebop melodies like Paul Chamber's "Tale Of The Fingers." Three original compositions are included by Dave Young - "Down The Middle," "The Night Is Long," and "Ode To The Southwest." The CD opens with "Bremond's Blues," one of two gems by Cedar Walton who also contributes "A Bell For Bags," to the late master vibraphonist, Milt Jackson.Dave Young is again in top form, as you would expect if you are familiar with his music. If you are new to the name Dave Young, this CD will soon be put in your library of favorite recordings.The clarity of Dave's sound and ideas are a pleasure to hear. His ensemble playing is supportive with lyrical, bass lines that embrace the piano and drums. As a soloist, Dave Young displays great agility and lyricism. His bowing technique is absolutely fabulous, possessing a full-bodied, gorgeous tone. The bass just sings throughout the ballads and is most impressive on the fast moving lines. Take it from someone who knows, this isn't an easy task!The sound quality of this recording is vibrant and very clear. It makes you feel like you are in the front row seat absorbing all of tile energy projected by these masterful musicians. Cedar Walton swings hard with musical humor and Barry Elmes ignites the ensemble, always at the right time. Tale Of The Fingers is an excellent collaboration of three world-class musicians. Dave Young, Cedar Walton, and Barry Elmes achieve their prime directive - to be obsessed with the "groove." I am certain that Paul Chambers would be proud and very pleased. For what it's worth, I know I am. Thank you Dave Young! - Rufus Reid

Price: $19.98