Altered Narratives

This album features the compositions of Danny Green as well as his skills on the piano. I found his compositions to be interesting, melodic and memorable. I especially liked track #1 with its heavy blues influence, reminding me a lot of the "Killer Joe" song. I was all set for more. Then came track #2, "The Merge" which was totally different and pleasing in an entirely different kind of way. Track #3, "October Ballad" is very classically inspired and beautiful, with a rich bass solo by Justin Grinnell. Another favorite of mine was Track #5, where Green has arranged the string section, once again leaning heavily towards classical music. I thought cut #9 brought me back to the jazz feel, but what I found puzzling was the production. This CD was recorded very acoustically and yet I found some compositions that leant themselves more to a smooth jazz approach. It was also a hodge-podge of styles and productions. Sometimes, they were heavily classical rather than the standard or straight-ahead jazz. Also, far too much echo on the grand piano. You can really hear it on track #5 in contrast to all those beautiful string parts that Green has written to compliment his composition titled, "Second Chance." It's the higher piano register that suffers from this mix. Still, the talent of Danny Green and his trio far exceeds a troubling 'Mix'. However, because of the diversity of the styles and compositions, it was hard for this reviewer to hone in on who this dynamic, young pianist really is. I would chance to guess that he, himself, is still searching to find himself musically. The final tune on this album, "Serious Fun" is just that; serious fun! Julien Cantelm gets an opportunity to show off his drumming skills in a big way. He made this song pop and explode with emotion and drive. One thing I can definitely attest to is that Green is a fine composer and has surrounded himself with talented musicians who play his work beautifully and enhance it with their musical expertise. Perhaps he explained his approach best in his linear notes.

"I have always been the type to immerse myself in one genre of music, artist, or composer for months to years at a time. From Nirvana, ska and Latin jazz to Brazilian music, straight ahead jazz and wagner operas; all these different musical phases that I went through helped shape who I am as a pianist and composer."