No Defense / Various No Defense / Various CD

Ever since Addison Frei ("Fry") began playing piano professionally at age ten in local restaurants around Lawrence, Kansas, he has garnered accolades far beyond his years. The New York-based pianist has won first prize in several competitions Throughout this set, Addison Frei's playing and compositions are so sophisticated and mature that one would never guess that this was his first recording. "Throughout this set, Addison Frei's playing and compositions are so sophisticated and mature that one would never guess that this was his first recording. Seven of the first eight songs are his originals. Those are not merely quick melodies and chord changes that serve as the foundation for long solos. Instead, the songs often travel through several moods and the development is both unpredictable and logical. The emphasis is on thoughtful playing, close group interplay, concise and meaningful statements, and a lyrical ballad feel even during the more heated sections." (Jazz critic Scott Yanow) A 2014 Summa Cum Laude graduate of the prestigious University of North Texas Jazz Studies program, Frei currently holds the piano chair in the Juilliard Artist Diploma Ensemble, regularly performing and touring with the conservatory's flagship jazz ensemble.