Houston, Texas has made quite an impact on the Planet of Jazz in the past couple of decades. Think Jason Moran, Robert Glasper, Kendrick Scott, James Francies, Walter Smith III, Eric Harland, and now, Paul Cornish. The young pianist has already made a name for himself tickling ivories alongside Joshua Redman, Terrace Martin, Braxton Cook, Kalia Vandever, Jalen Baker, Theo Croker, and as a member of Thumpasaurus.
With You’re Exaggerating!, Cornish makes his debut as a leader with a sparkling piano trio sound. Bassist Joshua Crumbly and drummer Jonathan Pinson act as an expert rhythm section, knowing when to support their boss and when to push him. Given that kind of encouragement, Cornish sagaciously displays all sides of his talent. With deft fingerwork that bespeaks classical training, but an expert ear for how to make a melody swing, the pianist ripples through tunes like the lively “Star is Born” and the pensive “5AM,” his melodious touch riding his pals’ foundation like a dolphin on a wave. On “Queen Geri,” Cornish gives a major shout-out the late genius Geri Allen, whose angular keyboard work and boundless energy clearly have a kindred spirit in her musical descendent. “Dinosaur Song” makes the most of its odd time signature, balancing the players on a beam it feels like they might tumble from at any moment. That they don’t proves not only what excellent musicians they are, but what a strong unit as well. “Palindrome” opens the trio’s tight-knit circle to a guest, with guitarist Jeff Parker fitting in as if he’s been playing with them for as long as they’ve existed.
Beautifully melodic, exceptionally skilled, supremely tasteful, You’re Exaggerating! builds not only on the legacy of Houston jazz talent, but jazz piano itself. Probably sooner rather than later, Cornish will find himself rubbing shoulders with his peers and inspirations.
