Everything In Stages

There are few jazz musicians with the technical mastery of pianist Paul Plimley, whose dazzling skills and broad tastes startle as they impress. Plimley's influences are legion, ranging from Chopin and Brahms to James Brown and Cecil Taylor. They are all heard here on this solo outing, which features Plimley occasionally on percussion, voice, and conch, in addition to the keyboards. The 17 short vignettes (the majority are under three minutes) generally combine original composition and improvisation, although the impressive "Parachute Four," clocking in at just under eight minutes, is totally composed. The pianist encompasses nuanced statements, sensitive reflections, and electrifying activity. The CD-R portion of the recording contains an interactive composition and descriptions of each track.