Richard Wyands - The Arrival (1992)

Richard Wyands is far better known for his work as a sideman because the veteran pianist has made relatively few recordings as a leader. This 1992 studio date for the Japanese label DIW features him in a trio with bassist Lisle Atkinson and drummer Leroy Williams. Wyands' choice of songs is interesting, as he skips Richard Rodgers' best-known works in favor of a lightly swinging take of "The Most Beautiful Girl" and a driving arrangement of "The Sweetest Sounds." His upbeat Latin-flavored reworking of Duke Ellington's "Warm Valley" and easygoing interpretation of Quincy Jones' "The Pawnbroker" are very appealing. His one original, "Dee's Den," is rather percussive hard bop that sounds like it would serve as an excellent set closer on a live date. This solid effort is well worth acquiring.