Lynne Arriale - Convergence (2011/2016) [HDTracks]

Lynne Arriale has made her mark with a number of CDs of her own during her career. This predominantly trio date with bassist Omer Avital and drummer Anthony Pinciotti, adding tenor saxophonist Bill McHenry on several songs, mixes originals and covers of pop songs. Arriale's songwriting skills match her chops at the piano. The driving post-bop vehicle "Elements" provides a solid opener for Arriale's trio, with the pianist's unpredictable blues constantly shifting. Her rambunctious Irish jig "Convergence" features McHenry's powerful tenor and Arriale's furious solo. "The Simple Things" is a low-key, lyrical ballad played by the trio. The infectious "Here and Now" draws from multiple musical influences from around the world, showcasing McHenry's wailing tenor. The Middle Eastern-flavored "Dance of the Rain" includes an unidentified oud player, with Pinciotti presumably being playing the hand percussion. Arriale also shines with her fresh interpretations of the Beatles' "Here Comes the Sun," Sting's "Sister Moon," and the Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black." Only Nine Inch Nails' "Something I Can Never Have" never manages to gain traction.