Fred Hersch Trio's "Heartsongs," released on July 20, 2018, under the Sunnyside label, is a captivating journey through the world of contemporary jazz. This album showcases the trio's exceptional chemistry and Fred Hersch's mastery as a pianist and composer. With a runtime of 59 minutes, "Heartsongs" features nine tracks that blend post-fusion, third stream, and progressive big band influences, creating a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album opens with "The Man I Love," a classic jazz standard, followed by original compositions like "Fall," "Lullabye," and "Heartsong," each offering a unique blend of melody and improvisation. Tracks such as "Infant Eyes" and "Evanessence" highlight Hersch's knack for evocative storytelling through music. The trio's dynamic interplay is evident in pieces like "Free For Three" and "Beam Me Up," while "I Mean You" brings a playful energy to the collection.
Fred Hersch, known for his innovative approach to jazz, is joined by bassist Michael Formanek and drummer Jeff Hirshfield, forming a trio that delivers both intimacy and power. "Heartsongs" stands as a testament to Hersch's enduring influence in the jazz world, offering a blend of timeless standards and fresh compositions that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.