Yesterday was pianist extraordinaire Cyrus Chestnut’s 51st birthday. To celebrate his birthday this year he performed as a part of his trio at The Jazz Standard.
The Jazz Standard is a favorite jazz venue in New York City because it not only hosts most of the great jazz musicians who come through New York, but also because it is a part of Danny Meyer’s wonderful southern barbeque restaurant, Blue Smoke.
Great food, fabulous music shared with friends certainly makes for a great night out.
Last night was no exception. Cyrus’s trio consisted of his usual drummer, Neal Smith and instead of Dezron Douglas on bass, Marika Galea fit in perfectly.
Last January I wrote about seeing Cyrus perform at Dizzie’s Jazz Club for his 50ith birthday with bassist Dezron Douglas, Neal Smith on drums, Stacy Dillard, saxophone and special guest Jimmy Heath, saxophone.
The performance last night was no less stellar. The subtle and obvious talents of Marika Galea and Neal Smith blended so perfectly together with Cyrus’s prowess.
Most of the exquisite compositions were, as Cyrus stated “penned” by him. The most wonderful feature of the trio was that it showcased Cyrus’s prodigious talents while presenting the whole trio in lovely balance.
Once again, I am blown away, my heart opens with joy and gratitude for the gifts we are given to enjoy and with which we can soar.
Life is soooo good!
Meryl Chodosh-Weiss 