Michel Petrucciani - Playground (LP)

Michel Petrucciani's "Playground" is a captivating journey into the world of jazz, released in 1991 under the prestigious Blue Note Records label. This album, dedicated to his father Tony Petrucciani, showcases Michel's unique blend of French and Latin jazz influences, creating a sound that is both intimate and expansive. With a running time of just under 40 minutes, "Playground" is a concise yet powerful collection of 11 tracks that highlight Michel's virtuosic piano playing and his ability to blend various musical elements seamlessly.

The album opens with "September Second," setting the tone for the acoustic-based approach that Michel is known for. Throughout the record, you'll find a mix of original compositions and pieces inspired by other jazz greats, such as Miles Davis, as heard in the track "Miles Davis' Licks." The diverse tracklist includes "Home," a tender and introspective piece, and "Brazilian Suite #3," which infuses Latin rhythms into the jazz framework.

"Playground" was recorded at the renowned Clinton Recording Studios, with basic tracks and overdubs carefully crafted to capture Michel's distinctive sound. The album reached the top 10 of Billboard's Jazz Album chart, a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether you're a longtime fan of Michel Petrucciani or new to his music, "Playground" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the genius of one of jazz's most innovative pianists.