Alongside Broadbent's frequent work with vocalists – including not only Georgia Mancio but Sheila Jordan (see below) – he is a relaxed and lyrical pianist. And, although this was foreshadowed by his contributions to Charlie Haden's Quartet West, his continued exposure as the lead instrumentalist can only be good news. The present recording can be seen as a follow-up to two previous albums by the same personnel (reviewed in Jazzwise 243 and 260) and it continues the good feeling of those events. As on those occasions, Alan brings a varied selection of material with four relatively uncommon played popular songs, including Kurt Weill's ‘This Is New’, along with jazz standards rarely heard in trio situations, by Parker, Rollins, Powell and Mobley.

The one Broadbent original, ‘Prelude To Peace’, is a highlight but the whole programme flows with ease and unhackneyed improvisation, despite reminiscences of heroes such as Bill Evans and Lennie Tristano. Harvie S takes the occasional solo but mostly plays a stimulating backing, while the lesser-known Mintz fits in with admirable discretion. Not a record to knock you over the head, but one to warm your heart and stimulate your ears.