Gerald Clayton©Andrea Canter

At age 26, pianist Gerald Clayton has accomplished much more in his musical career than many do in a lifetime.  His piano work is definitely quite unique.   His trio music employs several genres of music, bringing forward expressions of life, thoughts and ideals to celebrate jazz music in a very listenable way.  Gerald (or GC as he refers himself) was born in The Netherlands in 1984, but grew up in Los Angeles with his family, including father, John Clayton (bassist and composer), and his uncle, saxophonist Jeff Clayton.  After his schooling at U.S.C., Gerald continued more schooling in New York, where he lives (and works), but also comes frequently to L.A. as well. 

This particular evening, Tuesday, December 28th, GC brought a remarkable trio to Steamers in Fullerton, CA. Excellent bassist David Robaire and superb drummer Kevin Kanner rounded out the trio. 

Charlie Parker’s “Au Privave” got the set rolling.  A blues number, they began it as a ‘pedal’ and a riff start and headed straight into a good 4/4 time mode.  Kanner’s drumming used some unique left hand accents throughout early choruses.  Robaire’s bass solo shined early and he and Kanner traded 4’s, 8’s and more.  GC’s colorful chords embellished the melody.  A Clayton original, “Sunny Day Go,” is a pretty tune for jazz.  After another fine Robaire bass solo, I noticed how smooth and soothing Kanner’s brush work is.   This composition represents weather and memories of home here in L.A. to GC (while in New York).   It had a lot of classical flavor.   

Their third number, “Alone Together,” was performed in a high velocity up tempo – something I had not heard before with this piece.   Both Robaire and Kanner played important roles in fulfilling different parts.   Another Clayton original composition, “Casiotone Pothole,” was musically interesting and was about a keyboard GC had played on with a missing note.   

Gerald Clayton is nominated for two Grammies: for “Best Instrumental Composition” for his “Battle Circle,” played and recorded with the Clayton Brothers on the their new CD, Clayton Brothers - New Song and Dance, and for the album, which is nominated for Best Jazz Instrumental album. Visit GC’s website: www.geraldclayton.com. Recommended to see and hear for some best jazz trio music. 

Reprinted with permission from L.A. Jazz Scene, February 2011 issue.   

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