"Straight Ahead, also a sophomore release, reunites
pianist Don Friedman with bassist Chuck Israels and
drummer Joe Hunt - after a 46-year hiatus! Hoping to
rekindle their incredible chemistry so eloquently
documented on 1961’s A Day in the City, the current
effort more than rises to the challenge. Although
previously associated with avanteers like Cecil Taylor
and Ornette Coleman, here the trio’s prevailing
aesthetic - as graphically depicted on the cover photo
of a highway’s center-strip - is middle-of-the-road,
finding freedom within, rather than from, the form.
Atmospheric and evocative, the disc showcases
Friedman’s driving legato lines that stretch out like
saltwater taffy, Hunt’s mercurial textures and Israels’
shimmering tone and just-so note choices. An
improvisatory reprise of the title track from the first
album brings satisfying closure"---All About Jazz July 2008 No. 75

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Don Friedman, Jazz pianist

Don Friedman has been featured with most of the major figures in jazz since the 1960s. Now a resident in New York City, he is an internationally known pianist, shuttling between New York and Europe for appearances in festivals, concerts and clubs.

Jazz critic Gene Lees has said Friedman, who is known as a "musician's musician", is known for his creativity and virtuosity. He continued, "if you're not familiar with the artistry of Don Friedman, you have some catching up to do".

Don continues to draw critical acclaim for his music and respect from is peers. He has been praised for his lyrical style and his technical virtuosity.

Don Friedman joined the ranks of the "elite" pianists recorded by Concord Jazz in the world renowned series, "Live at Maybeck Recital Hall, Volume Thirty-Three." I t has been said of this recording, that "the creativity and virtuosity of Don Friedman, the responsive Yamaha piano, and the near perfect acoustics of Maybeck Recital Hall make this recording a treasured slice of solo jazz piano history.".....Gene Lees

Review of Waltz for Marilyn "The impressive vita and discography of Don Friedman are,,, " by Samuel Chell
Don Friedman | Jazz Excursion Records

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