Scale and scope have always been Keith Jarrett's major problems. His artistic ambitions often result in grandiose projects – orchestral works, extended suites and his infamous multidisc live solo sets. Deluxe overkill. Standards, Vol. 1, a welcome change of pace, hints at a new modesty and tempered vision in Jarrett's work. The setting couldn't be more basic: the pianist, supported by bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Jack DeJohnette (both of whom sound better than ever), interpret familiar jazz fare like "God Bless the Child" and "All the Things You Are."

Unfortunately, Standards, Vol. 1 is merely a competent album. Though Jarrett turns in a crisp, energetic performance, his deficiencies as a jazz improviser are laid bare. Because the setting of Standards is not an unfamiliar one in jazz, there are scores of similar performances that outshine it in swing, inventiveness and emotive subtleties. Jarrett's technical skills may be unquestionable, but on this record, the singsong monochromaticism and skim-the-surface profundity of his style are all too apparent. Jarrett never digs into a tune; he glides over it. The only way you can tell he is heating up is when his grunts get louder. Yet this is the very pianistic method that has made Jarrett a star – his solos are so pleasingly pretty and unobtrusive that you don't really have to listen to them. The best that can be said about this project is that Jarrett is still his own man. The same quirks, mannerisms and lapses in taste displayed here were evident on his first trio LP for Atlantic fifteen years ago. In light of Jarrett's many multidisc sets, the fact that he named this collection Standards, Vol. 1 is a very frightening thought. (RS 410)

STEVE FUTTERMAN