CD review: Ballantyne, Perla, Nussbaum – The Parker Trio 2021: Video, CD cover

As the world emerged from a winter of isolation and uncertainty Jon Ballantyne, Adam Nussbaum, and Gene Perla entered Gene’s studio on Parker Avenue in Easton, PA to produce this nine-song affirmation of the creative spirit.

Winner of 2 Juno Awards, Jon Ballantyne channels his Canadian prairie roots to envision vast open landscapes in his solos and compositions. Some of his past collaborations include a long tenure with Joe Henderson as well as recording duets with Paul Bley. A small sampling of Jon’s collaborators includes Phil Woods, Ingrid Jensen, and Roy Haynes. For the past 25 years Jon has led his quartet on tours of North America, Japan, and Europe.

Adam Nussbaum has shared the stage with such luminaries as John Scofield, Eliane Elias, and Stan Getz. He also recorded the Grammy Winning LP “Don’t Try This at Home” with Michael Brecker. He is a sought-after educator, and Sonor drums and Zildjian cymbals have both sought Adam’s advice in product development.

Gene Perla brings decades of experience not only as a player but as an educator and independent label owner to the mix. He has performed with Nina Simone, Don Alias, and Elvin Jones to name but a few. He has worked as an educator at Lehigh University, The Center for Media Arts and the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.

Although these three masters have worked together in various configurations in the past, this CD represents their first outing as a trio. Words can’t accurately describe the interplay here; the seamless shifts in tempo and dynamics, you must hear it to understand it. And you can hear it here.

1. Prince of Darkness 05:30
2. Illusional You 05:11
3. Days of Old 03:08
4. Will You Know? 04:00
5. Sonrise 06:29
6. Going Up 06:18
7. Blessed Babe 03:43
8. Little Rootie Tootie 04:47
9. Infant Eyes 04:10

Jon Ballantyne Grand Piano;

Gene Perla Double-Bass;

Adam Nussbaum Drums