Life of Sensitive Creatures [CD]

Inspired as much by Maurice Ravel and Art Tatum as Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarrett or Aydin Esen, pianist Tony Tixier's debut piano trio release, 'Life of Sensitive Creatures', features his original work alongside inspired interpretations in a stimulating program which breathes beauty and ingenuity.

Originally from France, Tony moved to NYC in 2012 and began to collaborate with a host of luminaries, this recording focuses on Tixier both as imaginative composer and mindful pianist: 'A trio is more about a direct, spontaneous and flowing conversation with artists who have something more than just the technical ability, so I chose players who are my friends and who feel a special empathy with my writing'.

The music includes the quaint 1920s Louis Armstrong stride-piano swinger 'Tight Like This', the percussive pulse of 'Calling Into Question' might read-ily invite a pop vocal. There's the limpid romanticism of Jimmy Van Heusen's classic 'Darn That Dream' and a fascinating take on 'Isn't She Lovely' (the pianist highlighting Stevie Wonder's prowess as an improviser, said to play 'Giant Steps' in soundchecks).

Tony Tixier plays in the bands of Christian Scott, Seamus Blake and Wallace Roney. But with 'Life of Sensitive Creatures' his sights are also resolutely set on his own path.