Album Notes

"First Light" the debut recording as leader by pianist Frank Harrison was one of my favorite albums of 2006. (See full reviewed on this link) www.24dash.com/content/lifestyle/reviews. "You've Changed" sees Harrison's regular trio of Scottish 'wunderkind' bassist Aidan O'Donnell, with Stephen Keogh on drums in the company of Irish guitar legend Louis Stewart.

Stewart is something of a veteran, born 1944 he has played with great British names such as Tubby Hayes and Ronnie Scott and accompanied Americans of the calibre of Lee Konitz, Gerry Mulligan and Benny Goodman. As long ago as 1968 he won the press award as best soloist at the Montreux Jazz Festival.

"You've Changed" is a more mainstream album than "First Light". With the exception of one tune penned by Stewart the remainder is comprised of 'standards'. However the quartet bring the very best out of their chosen sources with some sparkling performances. Harrison has a wonderfully light touch at the piano that is obviious from the first notes of the albums opening title track. Stewarts cool, relaxed guitar lines unfold around Harrison's piano and O'Donnell and Keogh, with brushes, offer sympathetic support. Both Stewart and Harrison solo in unhurried fashion. An excellent way to start the album and a stately trio version of Jimmy Rowles' beautiful tune "The Peacocks" closes the album. Harrison's limpid piano is supported by the rich pulse of O'Donnells bass and Keogh's shimmering symbols.

Musically the standards are impeccable with wonderful playing and interesting soloing from all. There is a marvellous feeling of relaxation throughout the album and a cool sense of swing. Different from 'First Light', You've Changed shows what a versatile player Frank Harrison has become and suggests that he will be a major figure on the British jazz scene for many years to come.

This is the first release on Ian McLaren's Desert Island Jazz Productions label. It is an auspicious beginning. Like 'First Light' the album was recorded in Italy to the highest engineering standards and mastered by Andrew Tulloch