Stanley Cowell - Equipoise (1978) [vinyl]

Prior to recording this album as a leader, Stanley Cowell had mainly worked as an accompanist for other well-known artists such as Max Roach, Marion Brown, Sonny Rollins, JJ Johnson, Art Pepper and many others. In 1978 he assembled a trio with Cecil McBee on double bass and Roy Haynes on drums to release "Equipoise". On the program were four of his own compositions including the title track, as well as "Lady Blue" a composition by Cecil and "Dr Jackie" by Jackie McLean. On this album Cecil McBee makes his presence heard with a very rounded and resonant bass, especially showcased by his moving and poignant solo on "Lady Blue". In addition, heard in action is the masterful drumming of Roy Haynes particularly expressed on the faster tracks, such as "Dave's Chant" where he expounds his full potential. Cowell is one of those wonderful jazz pianists who isn’t a huge innovator, but has forged a distinctive style all of his own for many decades embodied in his expansive discography. “Equipoise” is a valuable example of his earlier work, an indication of a profound career to come, well recommended! 

Galaxy Records, GXY 4121, 1979
Recorded 28^th-30^th November, 1978 At Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, California 

Musicians:
Stanley Cowell - Piano
Cecil McBee - Bass
Roy Haynes - Drums 

Tracks:
A1. Equipoise {Stanley Cowell} (4:46)
A2. Lady Blue {Cecil McBee} (4:19)
A3. Musa And Maimoun {Stanley Cowell} (9:09)
B1. Dr. Jackle {Jackie McLean} (3:14)
B2. November Mood {Stanley Cowell} (8:32)
B3. Dave's Chant {Stanley Cowell} (7:00) 

Total Time: 37:00

Credits:
Producer - Ed Michel
Engineer - Baker Bigsby
Engineer [Assistant] - Danny Kopelson, Wally Buck
Mastering - David Turner
Photography - Phil Bray
Art Direction - Phil Carroll
Design - Lucinda Cowell