Dawn Clement, Tandem (Origin)
Dawn Clement’s recording history includes piano collaborations with saxophonist Jane Ira Bloom and trombonist Julian Priester, among other prominent colleagues. The Seattle Times has called her, “The leading Seattle keyboardist of her generation.†Trumpeter Ingrid Jensen calls her “…an eternal gift to the music.†Clement’s discography as a leader is growing, and this addition will almost certainly bring her increased attention. Tandem’s series of ten duets pairs her with guests whose musicianship, flexibility and humor match her own. Highlights: Two pieces with Priester’s piquant phrasing and playful rhythmic turns; alto saxophonist Mark Taylor’s grasp of the essentials of Lennie Tristano’s “Ablution;†The power of Matt Wilson’s drumming on Thelonious Monk’s “Bemsha Swing;†fellow singer Johnaye Kendrick’s soloing, and harmonizing with Clement, on “I Think Of You.†Ms. Clement brings smiles with her piano lyricism and vigor and the sweetness of her voice.