The Bright Mississippi

by

Allen Toussaint

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The 71-year-old piano icon fron New Orleans has a released a recording, which is simply dynamic, atmospheric and fizzing.

It's a pleasant amalgam of versions of classic compositions and jazz standards (ranging from Duke Ellington and Django Reinhardt to Louis Armstrong and Thelonious Monk) which sometimes make the listeners rise to their feet and feel groovy.

The theme is Toussaint's acknowledgement and affirmation of the artistic, historical and spiritual connections that have made New Orleans the powerful jazz force it has become over the past decades.

The renowned producer Joe Henry (who had already worked with Toussaint on the CD "The River In Reverse" with Elvis Costello), suggested he revisit the city's jazz era.

For the new recording, which provides a stimulating exploration of Allen Toussaint's unique talents, the "Moses of New Orleans" teams with a cast of heavy weight cats : clarinetist Don Byron, trumpeter Nicholas Payton, guitarist Marc Ribot and, on a track a piece, pianist Brad Mehldau and saxophonist Joshua Redman.

His piano versions of standards such as "Winin' Boy Blues" showcase his utter nonchalance and diplay that funk was always in the Big Easy's blood.

There are rhythms, which are elegant and infectious and spiritual, soulful vibes, in the spirit of a fine evening of Crescent City-inspired music.

The silky, lyrical piano touch and improvisational sweep from Toussaint can give even Herbie Hancock a run.

The results is a very enjoyable and relaxed listening: there was never any doubt Allen Toussaint's long awaited and almost first jazz solo album would be anything other than magnificent.

My favourite tracks: "Dear Old Southland", "West End Blues" and "Bright Mississippi".

Update. The album debuts at # 2 of the Billboard Top Jazz Albums.

Issue date: 2009-05-09

The Allen Toussaint Collection

The River in Reverse