The trio provides a haven for many of the music’s creativity addicts, among whom we are sure to find Andy LaVerne. His latest work, Know More (SteepleChase SCCD 31493; 66:36), is by turns thoughtful, thunderous, sly, touching. LaVerne wrings all one can out of this trio, which includes bassist Jay Anderson and, once again, the nonpareil Billy Hart on drums. LaVerne finds his own way through the changes, whether he’s put them together, as with the title track, or borrowed from the likes of “Stella by Starlight,” as he does for his “Fire Wire.” “Sudden Wealth Syndrome” is a powerful, Traneish work, with yet another wonderfully articulate Hart solo. “Where and When” is a particularly poignant ballad, with LaVerne’s liquid phrasing bringing it home. “Waltz King” is a fine example of trioism with its fickle time signatures and teasing ambiguities.
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