Ineffable: The Unique Jazz Piano of Friedrich Gulda

Friedrich Gulda, who first attempted to play in a jazz setting in the mid-'50s after firmly establishing his classical career, is on far stronger ground on this Columbia LP recorded in early 1965. Gulda's chops are very much in evidence throughout the sessions. In spite of the fact that he had not previously worked with bassist Bob Cranshaw, the two hit it off immediately, while drummer Albert "Tootie" Heath had recently completed a tour with the pianist. His very deliberate approach to a standard like "I'll Remember April" is rather refreshing, while he's also up to the challenge of jazz works such as J.J. Johnson's "Lament" (played as a solo) and Jimmy Heath's waltz-time "Ineffable." Gulda's jaunty hard bop vehicle "The Horn and I" and his Art Tatum-like "Quartet" are among his more memorable compositions. Briefly available in the mid-'60s, this excellent album will not be easy to locate. ~ Ken Dryden