Tulsa-born pianist and longtime New York City resident Falkner Evans has made a string of easygoing trio recordings featuring the wonderfully interactive drumming of Matt Wilson. On this expanded group project, Wilson is back alongside bassist Belden Bullock; together they formed the warmly supportive rhythm tandem on 2007’s ARC. That trio is fleshed out by trumpeter Ron Horton and tenor saxophonist Greg Tardy, both of whom bring a sense of swagger to the midtempo “Altered Soul” while contributing lovely close harmony lines on unhurried offerings like “Drawing In” and “Dorsoduro.” By contrast, “Cheer Up” is an uptempo burner that allows for some heroic blowing from Tardy. The tenor saxophonist also shines on the midtempo swinger “Slightest Movement,” then engages in fugue-like shadowing of Horton’s trumpet on the buoyant jazz waltz “While We’re Young.” Guest Gary Versace contributes earthy B3 organ work to “Off the Top” and plays accordion on the tango-flavored title track.
Originally PublishedFalkner Evans: The Point of the Moon
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