Pianist Jesse Green, son of trombonist Urbie Green, is in fine form on Lift Off. Leading a solid straight-ahead trio with bassist Paul Rostock and veteran drummer Bobby Durham, he navigates six standards and four originals, with guest guitarist Joe Cohn joining on select tracks. Not yet 22 at the time, Green already displayed impressive technique and a swinging touch. While the program holds few surprises, the spirited, whimsical title track stands out. The closing eight-and-a-half-minute Jazzspeak finds Green reflecting candidly on his life and playing, and paying heartfelt tribute to his idol, Oscar Peterson.
Track Listing

What Is This Thing Called Love
September In The Rain
Waltz For Gabrielle
Sky Journey
Do It Again
Killer Joe
Rain Of Desire
Blue Bossa
All Blues
Lift Off
Jazzspeak