Ahmad Jamal: Back to the Island

If you like vintage Ahmad Jamal, you will not be disappointed by this track from his 2008 CD It's Magic. Here are all Jamal's signature moves: roller coaster changes in dynamics, kick-in-the-pants vamps, more space than a foreclosed McMansion. Through it all, the pianist tosses out incisive phrases, booming two-handed chords and passing flurries of notes. Of course, Jamal knows that he has his own traditions to uphold. At one point he interpolates a quick reference to "Poinciana," and at another juncture he goes even further back in the past with a nod to "Hot House." But this not a dry history lesson. The whole performance is infused with an attractive Caribbean flavor. Jamal with jerk sauce . . . very spicy!