Recorded at L’Olympia in Paris shortly after Jamal’s 70th birthday, Olympia 2000 features the pianist with his trio mates: James Cammack (bass) and Idris Muhammad (drums). They’re joined by tenor saxophonist George Coleman on the first four tracks, which are fairly lengthy readings of standards: “The Night Has a Thousand Eyes,” “How Deep Is the Ocean,” “Autumn Leaves,” and “My Foolish Heart.” The last two tracks — Johnny Pate’s mid-tempo swing tune “Appreciation” and Jamal’s own funky, involved “Aftermath” — feature the trio without the horn. Fans of Jamal won’t be disappointed; Coleman’s beefy, substantial ruminations add a great deal to the session. – David R. Adler
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