After 42 years as a New York-based jazz pianist with 17 albums under his own name and 22 years of performing with Dizzy Gillespie, this is Mike Longo’s first concert album. Recorded in September 2002, the album exudes the joy of making music and of life itself. The other members of the Trio are Santi Debriano on bass and Ray Mosca on drums - both very seasoned and experienced jazz musicians in their own right. This album was the first time the Trio had performed together, but you sure can’t tell it from the seamless collaboration. Most of the nine tunes are familiar classic jazz pieces, but Longo and his players update them a bit while staying faithful to the spirit of the originals. The CD is made up of the full set the Longo Trio played at the Detroit International Jazz Festival, and clocks in at 75 1/2 minutes. Pieces include “My Funny Valentine,” “Trane’s Blues,” a medley from “Porgy and Bess,” “Footprints,” and “Round Midnight,” all played in a brilliant groove that is spontaneous and yet makes perfect sense musically - as only great jazz musicians can do! The rich melodies should appeal to casual as well as die-hard jazz fans world-wide, and this album is an excellent addition to any record collection. Great stuff! Live is available from amazon.com.