Matt Richards

Trio Matt Richards

Following so many of the recent live performances with my trio I frequently wished that we had recorded the show to document the music that was created on that particular night. Since improvisation is such a vital factor in jazz, each time we play the result is unique given the spontaneity and interaction that takes place. On April 21st, without prior notice, through the graciousness of our sound man Sam Provenzano, we had the opportunity to record our show. At first, the mental alarms went off - I had not discussed this with Dave and Mike and given them the chance to prepare themselves technically and mentally, nor did we plan any original pieces or original arrangements of standard jazz repertoire. Given the quality of music that the trio had been producing live for more than a year I decided to stop worrying and start playing. The results speak for themselves. In addition to the trio's performances, I included one solo track: Lennon/McCartney's If I Fell. While not usually conisdered jazz, it has the structure and musical complexity that fits well in the context (and I think my somewhat harmonically convoluted arrangement fits the mold). I must thank Dave and Mike not only for the fantastic and very sensitive playing, but for their assistance in ultimately making this release possible. My appreciation also goes out to the other great musicians who spend so much time and energy with me to collaborate and create our music.