The universally acclaimed Jamaican pianist Monty Alexander was a mainstay in the MPS recording stables. He seasoned the virtuosity of an Oscar Peterson, with whom he is often compared, with a dash of spicy Caribbean soul. This 1976 live recording at the Montreux Jazz Festival rates as one of the classic piano trio jazz albums. It is Monty’s first recording with what is generally accepted as his best working trio: bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton. Ahmad Jamal’s Nite Mist Blues runs the gamut from barrelhouse to swinging modern, while the pop tune Feelings takes on a languid soulful demeanor with a hint of Latin. Ellington’s Satin Doll begins with a bit of Boogie before expostulating the theme and sampling a variety of lustrous textures. Bass and piano shine on Nat Adderley’s funky Work Song, and Drown in My Own Tears overflows with soulful gospel before segueing into a theatrical Battle Hymn of the Republic, complete with military drum rolls, funky marches, and swinging virtuoso jazz. After four and a half decades, the magic of a night in Montreux is still within reach
