Thermal Strut

Although drummer Jay Lawrence is the leader of this trio date and bassist Lynn Seaton is excellent in support, Thermal Strut is a success primarily due to the playing of pianist Tamir Hendelman. A major pianist based in Los Angeles who works with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Hendelman is brilliant throughout the modern mainstream set, whether romping on "Topsy" and "Opus De Funk," or sounding impressionistic on "Almost Summer" and Lawrence's "Eulogy." Seaton and Lawrence both play well behind Hendelman, who is particularly expressive on Jimmy Rowles' "Peacocks." Recommended.