Straight Up! "Little Niles"

Sounds from the USA

02/08/2025 |

Straight Up!’s rendition of Little Niles is a tender and evocative jazz gem that captures the essence of mid-century sophistication with a modern sensibility. Originally composed by Randy Weston, this 3/4 waltz is transformed into a sweet, lyrical journey brimming with emotion and subtle nuance. The track, clocking in at 3 minutes and 35 seconds, feels like a stroll through rainy Parisian streets—romantic, reflective, and rich in atmosphere. The warm tones of the guitar, paired with resonant double bass lines and tasteful drumming, create a lush, intimate soundscape. Every note is deliberate, every phrase elegantly shaped, showcasing the trio’s deep connection to the tradition while asserting their own refined voice.

Straight Up! is a co-led project by guitarist Andrew Kushnir and saxophonist Reed Miller—though here reimagined as a dynamic guitar trio—that pays homage to jazz giants like Thelonious Monk, Ornette Coleman, Bud Powell, and Weston himself. Their self-titled debut EP blends classic compositions with a fresh, original approach, drawing inspiration from mid-century modernist improvisers while revitalizing the guitar-trio format. With comparisons to legendary ensembles like the Poll Winners trio featuring Barney Kessel, Ray Brown, and Shelley Manne, Straight Up! channels the spirit of jazz’s golden era while feeling distinctly present. Rooted in the underground jazz scene of New York City, their music invites listeners into a world of quiet intensity, masterful interplay, and timeless elegance.