Pianist Abebi Stafford’s new record, Stolen By Lies, was primarily recorded in piano trio format, with Graydon Peterson on bass and Pete James Johnson on drums. Stafford’s original compositions are at their best when they are subtle. The tune “Kinderglow” is a great example of what makes Stafford’s understated writing so powerful. On the A section, the melody and the chordal support march as one in a groove that feels nostalgic and spacey. The B section does even more to emphasize the chord changes and throughout it all the tune carries a pace and a mood that I can’t put my finger on. The vibe reminds me of the work of Lynne Arriale, but there’s something more to it. There’s this nostalgic lilt while still being very engaged and active. It’s a beautiful pocket to be in and Abebi Stafford and his trio sound at home on this tune and frankly on the whole release.
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