Dutch pianist Peter Beets must look forward to his New York City visits. Hitting the Apple to record, he hooks up with some of the best young bassists and drummers on the scene: Wynton Marsalis associates Reginald Veal (bass) and Herlin Riley (drums) are the rhythm team for Page 3.
Unlike his more radical countrymen-Misha Mengelberg springs instantly to mind-Beets remains firmly in the mainstream jazz tradition, citing Oscar Peterson as a primary influence. Thankfully, Beets exhibits a more relaxed manner than his Canadian hero. Beets’ superior technique is never hidden; it’s just that he rations his finger-busting excursions, unleashing the flashing digits for maximum dramatic effect. (Check out the whirlwind take on “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm.”) Working in marvelous accord with Veal and Riley, Beets demonstrates as much innate taste as he does dextral ability, exemplified by a lovely, subtly funky reading of John Lewis’ “Django” and his own affecting ballad “Tristity.”
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