Eric Lilley Trio - Follow Up (2020)

Pianist and composer Eric Lilley and his trio have an aptly titled release, Follow Up. The new album offers nine original compositions. Lilley is joined by bassist Mark Diamond and drummer Dru Heller. With a special guest appearance by Jose Espino on two tracks, “Bud Bop” and “Leanin’.”

“The Weston Walk” is a grooving swing that slinks along with a deliciously timbered melody. The trio is tight and snappy with its hits and synchronicity. Lilley has a deep sense of jazz swing in his playing with a mature, laid-back sensibility that oozes maturity and finesse. Heller also has a deep sense of swing as he locks tightly with Heller. A thoroughly enjoyable listen from tip to stern.

“Summer’s Second Day” begins with a beautifully dissonant intro that evolves into a proper romp, and at times third stream voicings by Lilley elevate the sonic palette. Next, bassist Diamond reveals a stirring solo that attacks with fervor and panache. All the while, Heller keeps a solid and consistent colorization under the bassist, then all at once, he adds commentary and trades with pianist Lilley adding a nice feature for the drummer.

Overall Follow Up has a lot of meat and potatoes to it, not only from a playing standpoint but also a rich tapestry of writing. Lilley is a consummate composer with many twists and turns that add to the fabric of a superlative listen.