The bassist led trio is a somewhat uncommon occurrence in the world of recorded jazz. One thinks of the great trios led by bass luminary Ray Brown as an exemplar of this format. The 2010 self-titled release, “Ron Kadish Trio” provides another opportunity to experience this sound. 
The bass is definitely in command on this recording. It is beautifully recorded, and mixed front and center providing the listener the opportunity to hear all of Kadish’s musical ideas loudly and clearly. It also is most certainly the rhythmic engine in this group. From the driving, walking swing of the opener “Alliteration” through the many triple-meter pieces, and to the driving finisher “Under” the bass artfully holds down the grooves giving drummer Matt Margeson room to work. Kadish solos first on many of the tracks, as is common practice for the leader of a jazz group, and consistently delivers musical, thoughtful and melodic offerings. Hs solo on Schwartz & Dietz’s “You and the Night and the Music” deserves particular praise for its rhythmic drive and melodic content. 
The set list of standards and original material on this recording is well formed. It allows the listener to be introduced to new material while consistently referring back to known and well-loved tunes. Max Marshall handles the piano role well, demonstrating a deep knowledge of the compositions and displaying a formidable technique. I would like to hear the piano use a wider variety of voicings and accompaniment techniques. This would help to broaden the sonic palette and add interest especially in small group settings.
Margeson’s drum work is solid throughout. He listens and responds appropriately to Kadish and Marshall, and solos well. A few times throughout this record, he does tend to lean on the bass a bit to heavily for rhythmic support however. Projecting a stringer individual swing would allow the other members of the group more rhythmic room, and result in a stronger feel.
This reviewer found the piano to sound slightly out of tune throughout the recording. Maybe a brand new, and freshly tuned Fazioli for the next recording? I would also like to hear a bit more “room sound” in the mix. The individual instruments are recorded and mixed well, but what I believe is lacking is a sense of being in the room with the instruments. The switch in instrumentation, (to electric instruments) on the last tune “Under” was a bit jarring after an entire set of acoustic music. Perhaps this would fit better on an entirely electric recording? 
Overall, this is an excellent effort by the Ron Kadish Trio. This jaded reviewer has given it several spins and has always been drawn into the music. I recommend this recording as being well worth adding to your collection and/or giving as a holiday gift this year.
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