Break

Nuance and soul are both earmarks of Dawn Clement's Break (Origin Records) where the pianist is joined by a fine rhythm section of bassist Dean Johnson and drummer Matt Wilson.

Clear, assured, nimble, and muscular articulation - in the manner of a Phineas Newborn Jr. - is matched to some of the varieties of thought and feeling that he, too, submerged just below the surface of fresh styling.

Clement sings on a few of the tracks. At first blush, her vocals - clear and wispy - would seem to remain far from the level of accomplishment of her piano playing. But they are affecting, and little by little may grow on listeners.

Certainly her singing has come a long way, in a short few years. Unadorned and plain stylistically, but with plenty of color and tone, it conveys a rich sense of a mind, considering, and a heart, feeling.

In a fine Origin tradition, the quality of the recording is exemplary - the piano jumps from the speakers, and all three instruments are crisp and fully present.