Joey Calderazzo - In the Door (CD)

All Music Guide

Pianist Joey Calderazzo's debut as a leader is an impressive effort. At this period of time his main influence was McCoy Tyner, but Calderazzo was already on his way to developing his own voice. He features three different saxophonists (all of whom had been important in his life) on different selections, with Michael Brecker heard on "Pest" and Jerry Bergonzi and Branford Marsalis appearing on three numbers apiece. In addition, Calderazzo is assisted by bassist Jay Anderson, either Adam Nussbaum or Peter Erskine on drums, and percussionist Don Alias. Although less known than all of his sidemen at the time, that situation would change soon for the pianist, who contributed six of the eight selections. A very impressive beginning to Joey Calderazzo's solo career.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide