Wherever You Go, There You Are

Pianist Michael Kocour spent about two years working with the late legendary saxophonist James Moody. That alone on a resume would be enough to raise the eyebrows of any jazz fan in-the-know. So, why the heck have I not heard from him on his own until now? Go figure, but on this solo effort, he is the picture of lyricism, graceful touch, and (when called for) major league chops. It is an all solo effort for Kocour and he impresses on an array of standards including "Con Alma," "How About You," "Just In Time," "How Deep Is The Ocean," "An Affair To Remember," and "Evidence." One of two original compositions, "Winter's Spell," is a lovely detour. If I could change only one aspect of this album, I would pull the plug on the electric piano which he plays on three tunes, "Pensativa," "Freedom Jazz Dance," and the other original, "Wherever You Go, There You Are." Other than this minor hiccup, Michael Kocour has a lot to offer. And it is all played without pretense and with nary a speck of glitter.