The opening title track of pianist Spike Wilner’s La Tendressesuggests only hints of affection before the straight-eighth pulse intensifies into a McCoy Tyner-inspired demonstration of intensity, buoyed by drummer Joey Saylor and bassist Dezron Douglas. A schooled musician, comfortable in an expanse of jazz piano styles, Wilner delivers a more lighthearted approach on solo renditions of “If I Only Had a Brain” and “Lullaby of the Leaves.”
As an interpreter, Wilner is respectful and clever. His trio arrangement of Scott Joplin’s “Solace” maintains the ragtime integrity of the piece without getting bogged down in nostalgia. A similar relationship between originality and tribute is evident on Monk’s “Crepuscule with Nellie.” The fiery rhythm changes closer, “Happy Ending,” showcases Douglas’ muscular walking prowess, Saylor’s crisp command of the groove and Wilner’s unyielding drive.
A swinging, memorable affair.