by Ken DrydenEnrico Pieranunzi has long been recognized as one of the best European jazz pianists. This two-CD set with bassist Marc Johnson and drummer Joey Baron, not actually a regular trio but one whose members have worked together on a number of occasions over two decades, was recorded during a concert tour of Japan in the spring of 2004, with selections taken from a number of different venues. Three engaging extended trio improvisations upon familiar standards are the highlight of this collection, though the pianist's delicious jazz waltz "How Can You Not?" and moody ballad "If Only for a Time" leave lasting impressions. The trio also explores four originals by noted Italian film composer Ennio Morricone, highlighted by the dramatic interpretation of "Musashi," in which the pianist's lyricism is complemented by Johnson and Baron's sensitive accompaniment. The spirit of Bill Evans is often present in Enrico Pieranunzi's playing throughou...