It's no easy matter to take a fi rm hold on the universe of Fats Waller, one of the most influential pianists in jazz history and a man whose aura is a legend. But Marc Benham is no beginner. His fi rst record "Herbst", FA 578, was made under the aegis of Martial Solal and the critics gave it unanimous praise, making Benham a new fi gure to be reckoned with in jazz piano. With an imprint between stride, modern jazz and classical piano, Benham stands out with fi re and refl exion, his piano twisting and turning to navigate through a variety of melodious, limpid phrases with an exceptional sense of harmony and superb technique. Opening up all kinds of possibilities, Marc Benham's vision of his heritage is a foundation for his inexhaustible creativity: more than a tribute, this solo-piano record hovers suspended in the ether where the frontiers of space and time come together. Augustin BONDOUX & Patrick FREMEAUX