Jack Wilkins - Trio Art (CD)

All Music Guide

On this sparse session, guitarist Jack Wilkins plays harmonically sophisticated improvisations on mostly common chord changes. His sound is very quiet, with most of the fire being inward and beneath the surface. Wilkins engages in close musical communication with bassist Steve LaSpina and drummer Jeff Hirshfield; pianist Marc Puricelli makes a group a quartet on "Why Did I Choose You." The emphasis is mostly on slower tempos, with a few exceptions including the minor blues "Trioart." This is music that grows in interest with each listen and should be played fairly loud on one's stereo, lest it be relegated to being merely in the background. An intriguing and subtle set that will reward those who listen closely.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide