Sir Charles, composer of the bop anthem “Robbins’ Nest” and pianist on sessions with Bird, Dexter Gordon and Coleman Hawkins, among others, recorded this album last August-at age 82. Always a spare, Basie-influenced keyboard man, he maintains his customary neatness, steady beat and tastefulness throughout this live date from Chicago. For the first six songs and the last tune, he employs a trio: bassist Eddie de Haas and drummer Charles Braugham. On the intervening five, reedman Eric Schneider joins the group, with trumpeter Art Hoyle aboard for a single appearance.
The trio tracks-the title tune, “S’Wonderful,” “Tunis In (Tune Us In),” “You Don’t Know What Love Is,” “Body and Soul” and “A Boogie Woogie”-offer clear melody statements, bop- and/or swing-based improvisation (both linear and chordal) and a few piano-and-drums trades. On the title track, Thompson gets into an Erroll Garner groove with his left-hand accompaniment. De Haas’ big-beat walk and Braugham’s fluid drums are ideal.
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