Ahmad Jamal Trio in Pittsburgh

[LWayne]

We started off the new year in Jazz by catching a much-anticipated performance of the Ahmad Jamal Trio at the Byham Theater in Pittsburgh. There is always a lot of anticipation and excitement surrounding a homecoming performance by this jazz legend, who was last in town in September 2004.

The set was a typical diverse selection of songs performed impeccably by Ahmad Jamal, the incomparable Idris Muhammad on drums, and an impressive James Cammack on bass. Jamal seemed to play a wide and diverse array of selections spanning his entire career, with particular emphasis on songs from his most recent album "After Fajr".

Jamal's subtle, delicate touch, inventiveness, and ability to play lyrically continue to impress. He also displays a thorough knowledge of the left-hand side of the keyboard and used the lower register to great effect in accompanying himself. In particlar, he demonstrated his ability to command an audience with his swinging interpretations of "Swahililand" and a vocal-less version of "After Fajr" from the new album, along with his famous standard "Poinciana".

After the set, Ahmad took time to greet family and friends in the audience which added some touching memories to a wondrous homecoming gig. Here's hoping he comes home more often.

LWayne