This is from a live-stream session beamed to the world by Smoke Jazz Club, on New York's Broadway, ostensibly to celebrate Hart's 80th birthday, so let's hear it for him. More than that, it's an engaging exploration of the creativity of these three: Hays, now 53 and quite a veteran, with a substantial discography, leading the way. His ‘New Day’ is optimistic in tone, playful almost, the piano line quite uncluttered, leaving space aplenty, the phrasing clipped, Hart making the pathway interesting, Street on the case. ‘Elegia’ is subtle, the melody and harmonies almost cryptic, soft-sounding, while ‘Unscrappulous’ [a contrafact from ‘Scrapple From The Apple’] is livelier, Hart setting off fireworks at every turn, as Hays zigzags around the percussive bonfire.

‘For Heaven's Sake’ is simply beautiful, calm, momentarily recalling Brad Mehldau's approach, the limpid harmonies touching, Hays thinking on his feet [or seat], Hart quiet and Street making the right noises. The title track, based on ‘All The Things You Are’, exudes spontaneity, the momentum building as the pianist delves deeper and deeper, Hart inspiring and Street solid in solo. ‘Sweet Caroline’ has the kind of ‘sound of surprise’ quality that brings Keith Jarrett to mind and is packed with incident, Hart delivering messages demanding attention. Hays’ precise touch and his penchant for harmonic surprises make this whole outing a joy, nothing wasted, no notes unconsidered: a neat way, too, to recognise Hart's longevity.