Oliver Jones

Oliver Jones is in danger of becoming the grand old man of Montreal jazz. This is the pianist's 15th album for Canadian jazz indie Justin Time. On this set, Jones performs before a live audience at Toronto's Montreal Bistro. Working with bassist Dave Young and drummer Norman Marshall, Jones soars his way through a program of standards like "On Green Dolphin Street" and Monk's "Well You Needn't," as well as a bevy of originals. Together, they allow the pianist to strut his stuff — from Tatum-esque flourishes to moments of melodic inventiveness. Jones has a light touch and there is little bluesy edge to his playing, but this generous two CD set shows that he is far more than a "low rent Oscar Peterson," the criticism most frequently applied to him.