esrosedotblog

PIANO MAN

Dave McKenna resides in the upper reaches of my somewhat limited list of favorite jazz pianists*.

A strong left hand and a tendency for stride made McKenna's artistry instantly recognizable.

He played in Boston clubs for years and, late in the game, achieved a kind of fame nationally and sold some records. He also ended up playing in New York on a regular basis.

Crisp. Quick. Clear melody lines. Surprising improvisations.

The hand is stilled. The records remain. Get one.

Dave McKenna dies at 78; master jazz pianist performed primarily as soloist

Hey. He made the LA papers.

*Not in any particular order: Bill Evans, Dave Brubeck, Marian McPartland (she is 90 years old and still runs her NPR program), Keith Jarrett. Add McKenna.

Labels: jazz, music