After hearing American jazz pianist and composer Ahmad Jamal (1930-2023) deliver a refined, minimalist performance of the Latin standard, Poinciana, Keith Jarrett remarked,
This is swinging more than anything I’ve been listening to, but they’re doing less. What’s the secret here?
A similar effortless cool groove emerges in a performance of Poinciana featuring the Keith Jarrett Trio, recorded at the Palais des congrès de Paris on July 5, 1999. The concert can be heard on the Whisper Not album. In full form, Jarrett was returning to the stage after being sidelined for two years with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Named after a Caribbean flowering plant, Poinciana has roots in a Cuban folk song entitled, “La Canción del Árbol.” It was adapted in 1936 by composer Nat Simon and lyricist Buddy Bernier.
Pianist Keith Jarrett is joined by drummer Jack DeJohnette and bassist Gary Peacock:
Recordings
- Keith Jarrett Trio: Poinciana (Whisper Not), Keith Jarrett, Jack DeJohnette, Gary Peacock Amazon
Geweldig stuk en prachtig gespeeld. Swingt en heeft groove!
Yes, much like the Jamal version but listen also to DeJohnette and Peacock who add so much. For an artist who never got as popular as some, Ahmad Jamal’s influence went far and wide. Thanks for featuring jazz!
Fantastic. Loved this soulful interpretation!
Thank you for continuing to provide us with GREAT music!!
I love “Poinciana” played by Ahmad Jamal, and this was the first time I heard Keith Jarrett play it. Both versions are SO good and reflect the style of both of these great artists.