JAZZ REVIEW : Rucker Is Pleasing at Bakery

Ellyn Rucker, the Denver-based pianist, arrived in town for a Sunday-night stand at the Jazz Bakery in Culver City. Rucker belongs in a middle ground, somewhere short of true jazz creativity but a cut above the typical lounge-act pianist. Her time sense is commendable, her ballad (“Spring Is Here,”) is embellished by its succulent chords. At her best she makes a good case for a kinder, gentler piano.

In her choice of material, she avoided the trite standards in favor of such lesser-known works as “Sail Away” by the trumpeter Tom Harrell and “Funji Mama,” a calypso piece by the late Blue Mitchell.

Halfway through her first set, Rucker began singing. Her nervous vocals had the air of someone who has been advised that the song here and there will spice up the act, but in her case it does little more than reveal an area that needs polishing. Again, though, her selection of songs was wise: Freddie Hubbard’s waltz “Up Jumped Spring” and Mel Torme’s “Born to Blue,” as well as her own lyrics to Dave Brubeck’s “In Your Own Sweet Way.”

Much of the power of her best numbers was furnished by the bass of Tony Dumas, a local musician who, in addition to his admirable rhythmic support, turned in one excellent solo after another.

Rucker’s pleasant if unspectacular performance may be strengthened Friday and Saturday, when she will be heard at Lunaria’s with drummer Roy McCurdy added.