Cyrus Chestnut

What happens when a monster of jazz tackles songs written by the king of rock ’n’ roll? Cyrus Chestnut’s robust, gospel-influenced approach to the piano brings added layers of meaning and musicality to 11 of Elvis Presley’s hits on Cyrus Plays Elvis. The pianist’s minor-second-heavy dissonance on the head for “Hound Dog” gives the tune a bit of unexpected gravel, and though the string synth patches on “Can’t Help Falling In Love” run a little smooth for my tastes, Cyrus’ 6/8 blues reharmonization of the tune is otherwise an excellent and wholly original interpretation. “Heartbreak Hotel” is my favorite cut, featuring some outstanding, fluid soloing over a “Freedom Jazz Dance” vibe. Cyrus is talented enough to give any tune he plays a vivacious spark, and such beloved, classic material gives him license and space to do much, much more.
- Michael Gallant