Keith Jarrett: Autumn Leaves

The Keith Jarrett Standards Trio has recorded frequently, and maintained a high level of inspiration for more than a quarter of a century. But it is hard to top this 1986 live recording in Munich for sheer inspired interaction and unbridled intensity. There is much to admire here: the disjunctive rhythms, the simmering energy, the shifts in mood, and above all the ability for each player to stand tall and assert himself without rupturing the overall union of the three voices. Jarrett, Peacock and DeJohnette take on "Autumn Leaves" with the zeal of a S.W.A.T. team knocking down your front door. This is assault jazz of the highest order, and if they can do it to "Autumn Leaves" . . . well, I guess they can do it to about anything, huh?