Hank Jones is often taken for granted because of his seemingly effortless ability at the piano, but this 1979 trio session with bassist George Duvivier and drummer Alan Dawson (both of whom are also top-flight players) finds him at the top of his game. The hard-driving opener, Toots Theilemans’ “Bluesette,” has fine solos by the leader and Duvivier, supported by Dawson’s crisp brushwork. Jones shows off his stride piano chops in a jaunty take of “Blue and Sentimental,” offers a swaggering take of “Things Ain’t What They Used to Be,” and a lush treatment of Duke Ellington’s “Azure.” But the most stunning performance of the session may very well be Jones’ moving solo rendition of “St. James Infirmary.” The Black & Blue CD reissue of the original LP adds alternate takes of three selections. Highly recommended. [A French version was also released, with three previously unreleased bonus takes.] – Ken Dryden