Born: September 1, 1985 Primary Instrument: Piano
Last Updated: January 6, 2009“Los Angeles-born pianist Max Haymer may not be familiar to you, after all the young 22 year old musician does not have much of a discography. If the music on Pickpocket Witness is any indication of what we can expect from Haymer in the future, then prepare to brace yourself because you're for a treat. Offering a repertoire of original contemporary jazz presented in a dynamic straight ahead fashion, Haymer performs like a wild man on the keys pounding them into submission on the title tune and demonstrating his piano chops in style.
Performing with a trio that include bassist Nick Schaadt and drummer Cale Giachello, the group play seven exciting new charts starting off with the riveting “No Dice” where the pianist quickly establishes himself leading the music and playing in a crisp lighting speed mode that grabs your attention from beginning to end. Haymer is essentially an assertive player but also displays a lighter side as found on his beautiful ballad “Silver Dawn,” a soft cushy number that Haymer treats with tenderness as drummer Giachello uses the brushes.
Other highlights on this dynamic recording include the sophisticated “Asymmetry,” “Groove Sensei” where bassist Schaadt takes his turn in the spot light with some nice bass line work, “Webs” an intricate piece of music that challenges the listener and finally “Goodnight” one of the lighter jazz numbers that features the pianist for one final time leaving a lasting impression.
I was quite taken by the music of Pickpocket Witness and even more impressed by young Max Haymer, a gifted jazz pianist and star in the making. The album is a clear winner worth repeated spins guaranteed to please critics and audiences alike. “
Year: 2008 Label: Mac Swell Music
