Jack Wilkins

Jack Wilkins’ latest CD, “TrioArt,” finds him in his usual fine form, ably supported by Steve La Spina (bass) and Jeff Hirshfield (drums). Little remains to be said about Wilkins, as most JUST JAZZ GUITAR readers will already be familiar with his work. “TrioArt” contains everything we have come to expect from this consummate master of the jazz guitar. Awesome technique, a penchant for just pushing his harmonies a little further out than most, and a liberal helping of good taste to keep things in check, characterize his playing throughout this CD. His solo reading of Duke Ellington’s “Prelude To A Kiss” is one of the highlights, providing, as it does, a microcosm of Wilkins’ ability to seamlessly blend breathtaking single-line runs with block chords and double-stops. Jack’s use of contrapuntal techniques, especially contrary motion between the outer voicings of chords, is also impressive. The trio swings beautifully on “Emily” and the self-penned-blues “TrioArt.” Other cuts include “For Baden” a tribute to the legendary Brazilian guitarist Baden Powell, “When Sunny Gets Blue” and “How Deep Is The Ocean?” “TrioArt,” like every other album by Jack Wilkins, deserves a place in your collection as it contains some wonderful playing.