Hank Jones Trio
Hank Jones (piano); George Mraz (double bass); Willie Jones III (drums).
Hank Jones Trio (US)
In the month in which he turns 91, pianist Hank Jones is performing
at the North Sea Jazz Festival with his trio. The man from
Mississippi grew up with his equally famous brothers: drummer Elvin
Jones and band leader Thad Jones. The now frail pianist was known
in the 40s as Ella Fitzgerald's accompanist and he also made
historic records on the label of Norman Granz with saxophonist
Charlie Parker. In the years that followed, he worked with, among
others, Artie Shaw, Lester Young and Benny Goodman. In the 60s,
Jones played in the orchestra of Mel Lewis that was led by his
brother Thad Jones. Despite his age he is still exceptionally
active. Jones performed in a series of shows with singer Roberta
Gambarini and in 2006 he recorded the album West of 5th with
bassist Christian McBride and drummer Jimmy Cobb. On his latest
album Our Delight he collaborated with tenor saxophonist James
Moody. Jones is performing at the festival with drummer Willie
Jones III and bassist George Mraz.