Unicycle Man by Ted Piltzecker

14 Jul

Written by Richard Bourcier
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Here's a fine vibraphonist formerly with George Shearing coupled with four other wonderful improvisors. The quintet includes Bob Mintzer of the Yellowjackets on sax, James Williams on piano, bassist Harvie Swartz and drummer Dave Meade.

Nine tracks entice the listener including one standard, "There Is No Greater Love". All other compositions are by leader Ted Piltzecker. I truly loved his creation titled "Thea", a nice little waltz written for his newborn daughter. James Williams' piano styling on the piece is outstanding and somewhat reminiscent of Don Shirley.

The title tune, "Unicycle Man" is a showpiece for all in the group. Dave Meade's drumming is a real attention grabber. Even more surprising is the fact that Ted Piltzecker actually rides a unicycle and has done so for many years. To each his own! I have no intention of putting my bulky body through that kind of torture.

All of Ted's compositions on this issue were written in 1996 and we really shouldn't have had to wait so long to hear them. The presence of Bob Mintzer makes the wait worthwhile.

This is a beautiful session and well worth a listen. It's an album that will appeal to jazz fans of all persuasions.