Review Text
Playscape Recordings begins it's second decade with the release of Peter Madsen's The Litchfield Suite, the pianist/composer's third recording for the label under his own name. It follows the acclaimed solo piano showcases, Sphere Essence: Another Side of Monk (2003) and Prevue of Tomorrow (2006). When not leading his own sessions for the label, Madsen has been one of it's greatest unsung heroes, appearing on nearly a dozen releases as a sideman since 2001. The Litchfield Suite, featuring bassist Andy McKee and drummer Gerald Cleaver, documents the world premiere performance of Madsen's specially commissioned, six-part titular work at the 2008 Litchfield Jazz Festival. Each movement of the suite was inspired by a different aspect of his experience performing at the festival and teaching at the Litchfield Summer Jazz Camp for the past seven years, including tributes to festival founder Vita Muir and camp director Don Braden.
