New York Trio

Operating under the New York Jazz Trio name, the ensemble exists solely for studio work and concentrates on delivering classic standards through a direct post-bop approach. Three seasoned players rooted in the East Coast jazz community make up the New York Trio. Pianist Bill Charlap belongs to the Phil Woods Quintet, has supported Tony Bennett, Benny Carter, and Gerry Mulligan, and has issued several favorably received Blue Note albums under his own leadership. Bassist Jay Leonhart has issued leader dates since 1983, established himself as both vocalist and songwriter, and has accompanied Marian McPartland, Louie Bellson, Lee Konitz, among many others. Drummer Bill Stewart has undertaken challenging engagements alongside jazz guitarist John Scofield, funky sax man Maceo Parker, and R&B legend James Brown. In 2001 Charlap, Leonhart, and Stewart convened to record the album Blues in the Night for the Venus Jazz label; the set presents relaxed yet sincere readings of eight classic melodies and earned praise from classic-jazz listeners. Seven comparable sessions by the trio have appeared on Japanese jazz labels.