Album Review of
The Many Open Minds of Roger Kellaway

Written by Joe Ross
December 17, 2019 - 5:17pm EST
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Octogenarian Roger Kellaway has an impressive resume as both accompanist for many major artists, as well as now leader of his own trio. Recorded live at the Santa Monica’s “Jazz Bakery” in 2010, the trio of Roger Kellaway (piano), Bruce Forman (guitar) and Dan Lutz (bass) give us some very interesting, innovative renditions of some jazz classics. Opening with Thelonious Monk’s “52nd Street Theme,” they make a profound statement that this is going to be a strong, swinging set. There may be only seven tracks on the album, but most span from 9 to 12 minutes. Kellaway’s style is melodic, driving, and with his characteristically strong stride-piano influence. Yet, he also tastefully uses various colorings, restraint and dynamics to elicit plenty of emotion in their renditions of standards like “Have You Met Miss Jones,” “Take Five,” “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Night and Day,” and “Caravan.” I didn’t miss percussion in the mix, and some audience applause now and then is only a minor annoyance. It was a memorable live set full of energy, originality, and exploration.   (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)