Larry Goldings, Peter Bernstein, Bill Stewart – Rhombus (2026)

The organ trio format, once a staple in jazz venues, has become a rarer ensemble in contemporary music scenes. The 2026 release Rhombus by Larry Goldings (organ), Peter Bernstein (guitar), and Bill Stewart (drums) reexamines this format with a fresh, sophisticated approach that challenges conventional expectations.

Goldings, Bernstein, and Stewart are all seasoned musicians with extensive careers dating back to the early 1990s. Each has earned acclaim in their respective roles: Goldings as a premier Hammond B3 organist, Bernstein as a leading figure in post-bop guitar, and Stewart as a highly sought-after jazz drummer. Their collaboration transcends the label of an organ trio, positioning Rhombus as a contemporary jazz project marked by thoughtful interplay and subtlety.

The album’s repertoire is notable for its selection of compositions by iconic jazz figures along with two original pieces by members of the group. Rather than focusing on the blues-inflected grooves typical of many organ trios, Rhombus delves into complex modern jazz compositions. This choice highlights the trio’s intention to reinterpret works from composers like Wayne Shorter, Keith Jarrett, Abdullah Ibrahim, Thelonious Monk, and Randy Weston through the prism of their unique instrumentation.

One standout track is their rendition of Wayne Shorter’s “Penelope,” originally recorded in the mid-1960s. Bernstein delivers the melody with a smooth, legato guitar tone, while Goldings provides a subtle, atmospheric backdrop on the organ. Stewart’s drumming is understated yet nuanced, creating a delicate sonic environment that allows the piece’s mystery to unfold gradually.

Similarly, the group’s interpretation of Keith Jarrett’s “Everything That Lives Laments” maintains the original’s emotive rubato ballad quality before transitioning into a gentle Brazilian rhythm. This treatment demonstrates the trio’s capacity to honor the spirit of the source material while imprinting their own stylistic signatures.

Abdullah Ibrahim’s “Momma” receives a performance that balances simplicity with soulful expressiveness, avoiding typical blues overemphasis. Bernstein’s guitar tone occasionally evokes the warmth and depth reminiscent of Grant Green, complemented by Goldings’ organ solos that uplift the spirit with a restrained gospel influence. Stewart’s rhythmic support remains measured, reinforcing the piece’s refined character.

The trio also exhibits dynamic range, as evidenced in their take on Irving Berlin’s “They Say It’s Wonderful.” Starting with a gentle tempo, the track gradually shifts into a swinging groove, showcasing Goldings’ expansive solo and Bernstein’s vibrant improvisation that frequently returns to the song’s melodic core. Their version of Monk’s “In Walked Bud” captures a lively, flowing momentum, with Stewart delivering a solo that, like the others, remains focused on thematic coherence.

Original compositions on Rhombus further highlight the trio’s creative synergy. Goldings’ title track “Rhombus” features cool harmonic progressions and a memorable theme articulated in parallel by guitar and organ. Bernstein’s “Dissipation Blues” embraces a call-and-response format between guitar and organ, evoking the spirited interaction characteristic of classic organ trios while maintaining a modern sensibility.

Throughout Rhombus, the trio’s hallmark is a high level of attentiveness and communication. Their performances emphasize listening and responsiveness, enabling them to elevate each piece beyond individual virtuosity to a cohesive group expression. This collaborative ethos underpins the album’s appeal and distinguishes it within the contemporary jazz landscape.

While organ trios historically thrived in club settings, Rhombus invites listeners to reconsider the format’s possibilities in a concert or recording context. By selecting an eclectic range of compositions and approaching them with refined artistry, Goldings, Bernstein, and Stewart contribute a significant statement to the ongoing evolution of jazz trio formats.

Though the album’s detailed production notes and recording locations remain limited, Rhombus stands as a compelling exploration of jazz’s rich heritage filtered through the prism of three masterful musicians. It offers both seasoned jazz aficionados and new listeners a nuanced listening experience that bridges tradition with innovation.