Miki Yamanaka - Chance (2024) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

I’m certain that I’m not the only pianist who has dreamt of recording at the historic Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, NJ.
When Cory Weeds asked me to do another project with him, I immediately thought of recording there with my trio. I still remember the thrill I got from thinking of this project!
This is my first classic piano trio (piano/bass/drums) record. I thought it was appropriate to challenge myself to record with this configuration at this special studio. It had to be with my working trio, featuring Tyrone Allen (bass) and Jimmy Macbride (drums).
I have released 5 records since 2012, almost entirely with my original compositions. If you have come to one of my live shows though, you know how much I love to play tunes. All of these tunes have some meaning to my life.
Dark Side, Light Side - George Cables is one of my favorite pianists and I try to go listen to him every single time he performs in town. I insist on catching him live, not only because of his energetic piano playing and repertoire but also his kind and warm stage presence. This piece is one of my favorite tunes of his, and I often start my show with it.
Trinkle Tinkle - Everybody knows I love Monk. This was recorded as the very last take of the day and I played without caring if the piano went out of tune! It was fun. This kind of looseness makes me realize how important it is to have a working trio that I can trust.
I Wish I Knew - I wrote this arrangement for my senior recital at Queens College (circa 2015). I wanted to include at least one ‘Great American Songbook’ tune. I tweaked it a bit and featured the bass playing the melody. I think the slower tempo is more groovy. It’s cute.
Herzog - We did a Bobby Hutcherson tribute for our streaming series and Jimmy hipped me to this tune. I forgot about the song for a while and suddenly thought of it for this session. As it turns out Tyrone loves

TRACKLIST

1 Dark Side, Light Side
2 Trinkle Tinkle
3 I Wish I Knew
4 Herzog
5 Jitterbug Waltz
6 Cheryl
7 Unconditional Love
8 Body And Soul
9 Chance



Thanks to the Original customer.