: Steam rising from subway grates, neon lights blurring in the rain, and the relentless, driving energy of the city.
What makes this story profoundly deep is the real-world weight resting behind the notes. Roland Hanna was an actual knight (knighted by the President of Liberia for his humanitarian work), and he played with a "noble" touch. Recorded on April 1, 2002, this session became one of his very last before he passed away in November of that same year.
Listening to this album is like eavesdropping on a conversation between two masters. It is the sound of an artist knowing his time is short, packing all the travel, respect, and beauty he has experienced into 57 minutes of pure, unforgettable music. Sir Roland Hanna Trio - Milano, Paris, New York
: On tracks like "Django" , Hanna reflects on Lewis's ability to turn a somber, funeral-like march into a brightly swinging celebration of life. It is a deliberate nod to the dignity Lewis brought to the genre. 🗼 Act II: Paris – The Romance of the Third Stream
The trio leaves Italy behind and takes a sonic leap across the border to France, diving into the legendary track "Afternoon in Paris" . : Steam rising from subway grates, neon lights
: Hanna's fingers dance lightly over the keys with an effortless, polite charm, while Mraz's bass walks with a steady, reassuring pulse. It captures the post-WWII era when American jazz musicians found artistic sanctuary and profound respect in Europe. 🗽 Act III: New York – The Pulse of the Pavement
The by the Sir Roland Hanna Trio is a masterpiece of storytelling through jazz. Recorded just months before the legendary pianist's passing, it serves as a deeply moving final act and a love letter to his contemporary, John Lewis. Recorded on April 1, 2002, this session became
: The trio abandons the polite European structures and gives in to raw, unadulterated American swing.