Pete Malinverni: Autumn in New York

The opening cut, "Simpatico," a tribute to his 13-year old stepson, is hope for the future. A bouncy melodic tune, it depicts youth's ability to meet life's challenges. Likewise, "Little David" celebrates the triumph of youth, faith and spirit over the world's Philistines. Bassist Dennis Irwin and drummer Leroy Williams take uplifting duets midway through each of these tunes.

This trio's playing from beginning to end shows them to be experienced partners who easily change moods, yielding a cohesive statement overall. With this, their fourth CD together, the players have gelled as a unit and are evidencing a camaraderie akin to that which pianist Brad Mehldau has with his often recorded threesome. Malinverni plays with a precision that cradles hidden subtleties including slightly dissonant chords, a playful double ending on "Too Close for Comfort" and a wonderfully surprising tango rhythm on "Contemplative."

The soulful, mournful requiem "Elegy" serves as an elegant tribute to lives lost and gives new meaning to Arlen's "My Shining Hour" as its early tempo changes turn tragedy into hope. The title piece is a pensive sound portrait with dirgelike opening chords that serve to underpin a melancholy rendering of the familiar melody. Piano and bass stray in and out of improvisation to present personal reflections on the theme. A listen to Autumn in New York endorses Monk's musical compliment to the city, "Jazz is New York."

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