Stop Time
Jon Regen
(Motema)
Four stars
This 10-song set is almost half finished before pianist Jon Regen stretches out, launching into an impressive jazzy solo on the title cut. Elsewhere, he keeps things simple — and that’s fine. His sturdy songs, pleasing tenor and seven-foot grand are a captivating combination, even when the notes are kept to a minimum.
Regen’s music is made for late at night in a cozy club with the piano in the middle of the room. His playing style is free of frills and his lyrics are straightforward, too, as he sings about persistence, resilience, allegiance and distance. These are piano ballads that swing, thanks in part to Elvis Costello’s rhythm section.
The intimate arrangements are beautifully spare, so that on Morning Papers, even a single cymbal tap resonates. At times the mix of pop and jazz recalls Bruce Hornsby, and that's meant as high praise. The album title refers to Regen's wish that life could be put on pause, but these songs are made for the repeat button.
artslife@thenational.ae
