Invitation to Openness

The pianist Hal Galper is joined by Tony Marino on bass and Billy Mintz behind the drum kit for these 8 live tracks performed at Big Twig way back in 2008.

"Embraceable You" opens the listen with Galper's warm and fluid keys alongside playful drumming and strategic bass, and "Rapunzel's Luncheonette" follows with a very dynamic and swift approach that emits a timeless jazz quality.

Halfway through, "Ambleside" has the trio working together with much skill and adventurousness, while the title track mixes both intimacy and exploration into the piano driven album highlight.

Nearing the end, "Wandering Spirit" displays much restraint in the sublime setting, and "Constellation" exits the listen rowdy and melodic, with quick keys, tumbling drums and charming bass work.

Recorded during a time when Galper was coming into his own as a musical voice and finding a comfortable place as a member of the cultural community in the Catskills, Invitation To Openness serves as fine introduction for the uninitiated and a must listen for the longtime fan.