One man. One piano. A world of music.

Lafayette Gilchrist grew up in Baltimore. He can remember when go-go wasn't an artifact, and he's heard a whole lot more since. If you've seen a David Simon joint, you've probably heard him on the keys at some point. While his music is probably best described as jazz, he has recorded and toured with artists across the musical spectrum. This album is a testament to those experiences and the life Gilchrist sees today.

Lafayette Gilchrist Dark Matter (self-released)

Recorded live in Baltimore in 2016, Gilchrist shows off some fine stride and boogie-woogie chops. He also veers into more experimental territory. But when he gets lyrical, all the pieces start to come together. He's able to blend styles and ideas seamlessly, and his playing is powerfully expressive.

It is as if the piano is not his instrument, but rather that he is an instrument of the piano, sent to fulfill its destiny. When Gilchrist sits down, the piano sounds like an orchestra. Yes, that's why the first pianoforte was built, but Gilchrist fulfills that destiny much better than most.

Truly something else. Gilchrist has earned almost every accolade possible in his hometown. Now, with his second solo album, he might find national acclaim around the corner. I haven't heard an album with such musical breadth in a long time, and I don't imagine I will again any time soon. Spectacular.

Jon Worley