AMG Review of Triple Play

Ken Dryden
All Music Guide

Russell Malone's Triple Play is a notable session because it mixes his infectious originals with a number of decades-old songs that have unjustly been overlooked. Superbly accompanied by bassist David Wong and drummer Montez Coleman, Malone kicks off with his breezy bossa nova "Honeybone," which blends in a funky flavor and a bit of the blues. Malone's easygoing ballad "Pecan Pie" is an engaging melody worthy of a tasty lyric, while he showcases Coleman in his funky "Sweet Georgia Peach." The guitarist uncovered several gems by earlier jazz artists, including the late John Hicks' hip bop vehicle "Mind Wine" and Oliver Nelson's early-'60s intricate "Butch and Butch," both of which the trio interprets with flair. Malone's excursions into forgotten standards include an intimate setting of Cole Porter's "Do I Love You" and a moving solo interpretation of Alex North's hit "Unchained Melody" (the latter which has been recorded many times but infrequently by jazz artists). All in All, Triple Play is an impressive outing by Russell Malone.