Lester, Billy
Jujikann, 2025, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 31.4
Jazz Ruler Type: Ballads, Blues
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score: 74
O’s Notes: Seasoned pianist Billy Lester leads a trio with bassist Marcello Testa and Nicola Stranieri on drums. They give us their take on nine covers for High Standards. There is generous soloing around the horn on the opener, “There Will Never Be Another You”, an enticing indication of what follows. We liked the gentle swagger of “What Is This Thing Called Love”, the swinging “I’ll Remember April”, and “Out of Nowhere”. Lester shines throughout the set with personalized phrasing that shows continued evolution even at 79!
Publicist: Jazz Promo Services
