Lisa Hilton's piano is instantly recognizable. She's never showy, often allowing Rudy Royston and Luques Curtis to drive the car. But she's always there, finding something new in every piece. Her style is so accessible, and yet she is able to drive emotions as well or better than almost anyone I know.

Lisa Hilton Life Is Beautiful (Ruby Slippers Productions)

That dichotomy (which is referenced in many of the rave reviews of her work that I have read over the years) is puzzling. On the surface, this might seem to be "happy jazz." And yes, her playing can be bright and engaging. But the depth she produces is truly a wonder.

This is her twenty-fifth album, almost one a year since 1997. I simply cannot think of anyone who consistently produces so much top level work. I think one of her secrets is that she is amazingly adept at inhabiting her songs. She is able and willing to give a song whatever it needs to shine, whether it is her composition or someone else's.

I think that her albums are somewhat interchangeable. That is, they feature gorgeous piano playing that tells story after story. This one is no different, though long-time listeners will hear her revisiting certain songs from albums gone by. I remain amazed by her drive and ability to perform and record at such a high rate. Beautiful stuff, as always.

Jon Worley