By: D. Oscar Groomes, O’s Place
Ben Winkelman is an Aussie jazz pianist who found himself in New York on the jazz scene with a strong penchant for Modern Jazz with Latin, Afro-Cuban flavors. He leads a strong trio with bassist Matt Penman and Obed Calvaire on drums. All of the music is original except a cool arrangement of Monk’s “Bye-Ya”. There’s a touch of gospel on “Fala Baixiño” and a breather on the relaxed “Santiago” but otherwise it’s spirited modern jazz as on “BX12 Part Two” and “Merri Creek”. This is Winkelman’s 5th recording as a leader and he’s on point!