Jacques Loussier Trio: Bach's Goldberg Variations
French pianist Jacques Loussier has seemingly forged an entire career out of arranging classical compositions for his jazz trio. He's done a disc ofSatieandVivaldiworks, even recording Ravel'sBolero. So, trying Bach's Goldberg Variations, full of jazzy time signatures and loaded with improv possibilities, makes perfect sense for the pianist. And Loussier delivers what may be his most exciting outing to date. Rather than expand upon Bach's original miniatures, Loussier maintains their integrity, keeps each piece short, but varies their rhythms (thanks in part to the great bass playing of Benoit Dunoyer de Segonzac). On a handful of variations--a dizzyingly fast Five, a Latin-infused Variation Eight, and a punchy 14--he really lets loose. Since the Swingle Singerstackled Bach in the 1960s, many a jazz musician has arranged the music of the composer. This disc is one of the most compelling. Want an even wilder set of Goldbergs? Try jazz pianist Uri Caine'sinstrumentally omnivorous, jaw-dropping set.--Jason Verlinde