Harold Mabern might possibly be considered old-school if he had ever been off the jazz scene. However, since the 1950s, he has consistently brought his tasteful piano playing to one important bop-oriented group after another. He was the harmonic force behind jazz classics such as Lee Morgan's many '60s and '70s hard-bop groups and George Coleman's '80s exploratory quartets and octets. Even though Mabern's piano playing is not that part of the group sound one notices first, he often acts as the stabilizing center of gravity. Listen for his playing on recordings with jazz masters such as Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Wes Montgomery, Miles Davis and Sarah Vaughn, and you'll hear how his subtle artistry makes those frontline players sound great.

In the '90s, Mabern joined forces with Eric Alexander, providing not only piano but also numerous compositions to the young saxophonist's back-to-basics sound. Together with Alexander, Mabern has played in Tokyo several times over the past few years, his solos vying with Alexander's for attention. This year, though, he comes with his piano trio, bringing along bassist Nat Reeves and drummer Joe Farnsworth. These two younger players have often worked with Mabern in the past and will give him plenty of room to stretch out into longer solos.

Mabern's compositions are beautiful, complex affairs, and his playing digs deep. Though his roots in Memphis guide him toward a soulful, heavy sound, his refined technique allows him to toss off amazing lines with ease. With other groups, he situates those lines behind the horns, but in trio format, you get to hear what he's saying directly. He also plays with a deep feeling that extends beyond the close interaction with the band and envelops the audience as well. Fans of jazz piano trios can expect a tremendous workout with Mabern out front at last.