Autumn Leaves by Keith Jarrett Song Info
A standout track from the longest-working band in Jeith Jarrett's career. Over the last 20 years, the Standards Trio has built a large repertoire of jazz and pop entries from the Great American Songbook, and this is one of the most energetic and thorough breakdowns. The Blue Note is a relaxed, attentive setting for this. Jarrett himself spends nearly five minutes fully exposing the theme before Peacock and DeJohnette join in. They trade solos and slowly accelerate the pace for about 8 minutes after they begin playing together. At about the 13:00 mark, DeJohnette moves slightly ahead of the beat and makes some subtle changes to the forcefulness of the beat. At this point, the tension held in the interplay between the three of them is almost unbearable. Jarrett starts moving his right hand farther and farther up the keys, and after about 3 minutes, finally gives way to a key change. Shortly thereafter, Peacock takes a longish bass solo. What's great about all this intense playing is that it's all very melodious, all very bright and approachable. After Peacock's final solo winds down, Jarrett states the main melody in a very melancholy way, switching to a minor key. It brings it all back to earth, reminding you that this is one of the classic sad ballads. DeJohnette helps close the tune with some soft and wistful cymbal work. Some of the most intricate, agile, and deeply felt soloing in a jazz piano trio setting on record. Highly recommended.
