Bert van den Brink has a sizable discography, having recorded with a number of widely known artists including Lee Konitz, Denise Jannah, Chet Baker, Toots Thielemans, and Philip Catherine. This unusual solo piano date came about after the pianist created a number of musical fragments over a period of time, while he also adds full compositions and two songs by Clare Fischer. “Themes and Variations” takes one theme and explores it in a variety of jazz and semi-classical settings, including Afro-Cuban and a variation that sounds like early 20th century Igor Stravinsky. “Valse Cliche” has the flavor of Dave Brubeck, while the delicate “Little Owl” has an Impressionist air. “Early Autumn” suggests a gentle breeze on a clear day, with leaves gradually coming down one by one with the change of season. “Tristesse” is a dramatic sonata.
The pianist has previously recorded his haunting waltz “Woods” as a piano duet on two earlier sessions, though this solo interpretation expands upon its theme. Fans of Bert van den Brink’s earlier recordings will enjoy this solo session. – Ken Dryden