Noah Haidu Completes Standards Trilogy
Pianist Noah Haidu completed his acclaimed trilogy with the release of *Standards III* this past Friday. The album, recorded with Gervis Myles and Charles Gould, continues Haidu's exploration of jazz standards with inventive arrangements and virtuosic interplay. The trilogy represents a comprehensive modern take on classic jazz repertoire spanning multiple recording sessions.
The *Standards* trilogy is a culmination of pianist Noah Haidu's evolving approach to the Great American Songbook, a journey that started with his 2021 Keith Jarrett tribute album, *SLOWLY*. This project marked a shift for Haidu, who, after years of focusing on complex compositions, felt a yearning to interpret simpler, heartfelt melodies. The first album in the series, *Standards*, released in 2023, featured veteran musicians Buster Williams and Peter Washington on bass, with Lewis Nash on drums and guest saxophonist Steve Wilson. For 2024's *Standards II*, Haidu streamlined the lineup to a trio with Buster Williams returning on bass and the legendary Billy Hart on drums. *Standards III*, released on June 6, 2025, uniquely features two distinct trio lineups. It continues the collaboration with industry legends Buster Williams and Billy Hart, while also introducing Haidu's touring trio with rising New York City talents Gervis Myles on bass and Charles Goold on drums. The album even revisits a track from his 2011 debut, "Slipstream," with the personnel from the first *Standards* album. Beyond the classic jazz repertoire from composers like Jerome Kern and Duke Ellington, the final installment incorporates inspiration from more contemporary artists like Stevie Wonder and Chappell Roan, expanding the "standards" concept. This blending of generations and genres is a key feature of the trilogy's modern take on the tradition. Haidu's exploration of standards is deeply influenced by Keith Jarrett's iconic 1980s trio. In fact, Haidu's father, who introduced him to jazz, was a great admirer of Jarrett, and they attended what would be Jarrett's final trio performance together. Following the trilogy's completion, Haidu has an extensive tour planned for 2025 across the United States and Europe, featuring various lineups including his new trio. He also has plans to record a more personal album and continue his musical exploration of the works of pianist Kenny Kirkland.
