Timeless Sound: Dave Palmer’s Jazz Trio Debut
You've had a rich and varied career from composing to now leading your own trio. What led you into music and how did you end up here?
I started playing piano at age 6,started taking it seriously at 11 and was professional by 16. I always knew I wanted to play music as a career. From this sense of self assurance I followed along a path that kept leading me into new situations and new relationships that cultivated my growth as a player and artist. Where I am now is a continuation of this thing that has been going on for decades. And it is still evolving.
Your new trio featuring you on piano, Reggie Hamilton on bass, and Joey Waronker on drums, has received comments on its elegance and immediate chemistry. What sparked this particular lineup?
When considering forming a new trio the first person I was sure I wanted in the group was Reggie. We've known each other for years and I've always loved his playing and his musicianship. With that in mind I wanted a drummer who would be a great compliment for us both in terms of musical approach and in dynamic sound on the instrument. Joey was my first choice and thankfully he was totally on board.
How do you take inspiration from jazz greats such as Duke Ellington and Ahmad Jamal whilst still forming your own style?
Duke is not only a musical influence, he's a kind of personal hero. To me he represents the spirit of American music and of musical creativity in general. His writing and his creativity combined with such a beautiful sense of swing make him a kind of mental and spiritual haven for me to return to over and over again.
Ahmad Jamal is simply, in my opinion, the greatest piano trio leader to ever do it. His way of controlling the ebb and flow of a performance is so original and keeps the listener constantly engaged. He mixes beauty and swing with simplicity and unexpected turns of phrase...all without ever overdoing it.
There are so many others I listen to and am influenced by from Duke Jordan to Hampton Hawes to Lennie Tristano, but for this trio Duke and Ahmad are top beacons.
You've worked with a wide range of artists, what's the biggest lesson you've taken from working in those different worlds?
The deeper you get into being a professional musician and the more artists you work with the more your own approach to your instrument and playing in general evolves. With that in mind I would say the biggest lesson I have learned is to let the situation guide you. Be an overall accompanist. Flow with the vibe and the intent of every new experience and never stay static or fight what you feel should be the direction the music takes you.
How do you decide when a piece is done - especially with jazz where the temptation to keep exploring can be so present?
It depends on the material and the performers. A lot of times I have a very solid framework for what I want compositionally but still like to let "of the moment" inspiration take a major roll. Especially in a jazz or improvised music context. That said, it is generally a feeling thing that let's you know when something is done.
Where do you see this trio going next?
I am hopeful that we continue to make recordings and to grow as a cohesive unit. I also would very much like to take this group into the public on a tour and have people from many different places get to hear what we're all about.
Outside of music, what non musical experiences are currently influencing you creatively?
I am a huge fan of literature. I read a large swath of material both fiction and nonfiction. Books and stories feel so connected with the musical creative process to me. They broaden the workings of the mind and bring out curiosity and cleverness. That said, I am a huge fan of all the arts. I love museums of all kinds and the events that surround them.
And then there's sports. I find solace in them. They are one of the only professional arenas left where true talent can't be faked or be a gimmick. That brings me a strange sense of calm and appreciation.
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