Ahmad Jamal Trio - The Awakening (1970)

Lovely little trio date from a great pianist who's still around today.  Ahmad Jamal had been active for two decades when this album was recorded in February 1970, and had never quite got the level of critical acclaim that more famous pianists received, despite being championed by no less a figure than Miles Davis.  He surely deserved it though, and in the decades that followed The Awakening would grow in stature and become a staple for hip hop sampling.

Seven tracks here, with Jamal ably backed by bassist Jamil Nasser and drummer Frank Gant.  Lots to love, not least the gorgeous title track penned by Jamal.  His understated, languid style might make this album sound like a laidback club date on a casual glance, but just under the surface there's a formidable talent able to pull off tricksier runs without disturbing the groove.  And the album closes with covers of the lead tracks from two of my absolute favourite jazz records of all time - Stolen Moments and Wave - what's not to love?

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