Although a new name to me, Stein has already issued an array of albums, many on the Whaling City Sound label; the release of Serendipity timed to coincide with his planned retirement from his role of Professor of Harmony at Berklee. Instead of touring with this trio as planned, he was recorded in a livestream concert at the New Bedford Art Museum in Massachusetts, and a most agreeable outing it turns out to be. In that his previous albums seem not to have been distributed over here, it's pleasing to encounter an accomplished player and to recognise a strong improviser with a distinctive, slightly ringing sound all of his own.

While it is Stein's tasteful solo playing and lead that defines the album, it's fair to say that bass guitarist Lucie is very nearly an equal partner, often carrying the melodic line and soloing most capably. This applies to ‘Alfie's Theme’, bass guitar leading in to that familiar theme [even if the mind's ear still expects Rollins to emerge], the guitar firmly struck akin perhaps to Joe Pass yet always with a bluesy edge, this perhaps reflecting Stein's Kansas City origins. Connors comes in to his own on Stein's ‘Elvin!‘ which speaks for itself, the playing intricate but without bombast, bass guitar surging nicely. There's a real sense of commonality here, each man playing for the others without in any way limiting their own creativity. With a rich mix of originals and standards, this is a nice find.