Bruce Barth's "Three Things of Beauty" is a captivating journey through the world of jazz, released on June 14, 2012, under the Savant label. This album is a testament to Barth's mastery of the genre, offering a rich and diverse collection of tracks that showcase his exceptional skill as a pianist and composer. With a runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes, the album is a substantial exploration of jazz, featuring nine tracks that range from bluesy and introspective to lively and upbeat.
The album opens with "My Man's Gone Now," a poignant piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. "Final Push" and "Wise Charlie's Blues" follow, each offering a unique perspective on the blues, with Barth's piano playing taking center stage. "The Rushing Hour" is a standout track, with its intricate melodies and dynamic rhythms, while "Three Things of Beauty" is a beautiful ballad that highlights Barth's ability to evoke deep emotion through his music.
The album continues with "Night Shadows," a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Barth's ability to create atmosphere and mood. "Big Nick" is a lively and upbeat track that will get your feet tapping, while "Wondering Why" is a more introspective piece that showcases Barth's ability to convey complex emotions through his music. "Be Blued" is another standout track, with its intricate melodies and dynamic rhythms, while the album closes with "The Song Is You," a beautiful ballad that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired.
Throughout the album, Barth's playing is impeccable, with his piano work ranging from delicate and subtle to powerful and dynamic. He is joined by a talented group of musicians, including bassist Ben Allison and drummer Lewis Nash, who provide excellent support and complement Barth's playing perfectly. The album is a testament to the power of jazz to evoke deep emotions and transport the listener to another place and time. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bruce Barth or a newcomer to his music, "Three Things of Beauty" is an album that you won't want to miss.