Andrew McCormack pf Joe Downard bass Rod Youngs drums

Ubuntu

An excellent album of postbop jazz by the leading UK pianist-composer, best known for his duo collaborations with saxophonist Jason Yarde, and as a member of Kyle Eastwood’s band. Most of the music was developed at home in London during the lockdowns of 2020-21. It marks a return to the trio format of his debut album, Telescope.

The engaging ‘Brooklyn Memoir’ recalls McCormack’s period in New York, and is followed by the plangent ‘Clementine’s Dream’ in 6/8 time. The upbeat, solo ‘Cherry Blossom’ recalls earlier piano styles including stride, while the darker ‘Prayer For Atonement’ is a response to the killing of George Floyd. Among the four non-originals is Thelonious Monk’s ‘Work’ – a tricksy composition that McCormack negotiates with finesse – and Sting’s ‘Fragile’. There’s an inventive interpretation of the standard ‘Dear Old Stockholm’, while ‘Confirmation’ is short and sweet.

Composer Mark-Anthony Turnage has been an important mentor, but McCormack’s classical affinities are less apparent here. Skilful and often compelling compositions help make this a first-rate release.