Mulgrew Miller lends his talents to a new Experience

To listen to Mulgrew Miller’s most recent releases – four live albums recorded at the Kennedy Center in Washington and Oakland’s own Yoshi’s – is to experience a musician truly in command of his talents. Produced by Miller and featuring his arrangements of both standards and originals, the discs brim with self-assured style and execution. Miller, clearly, was born to front a jazz trio.
All of which makes his return to Yoshi’s that much more intriguing.
Miller will take the stage Wednesday and Thursday as part of the Karriem Riggins Virtuoso Experience. The evenings open with Riggins, who plays drums in the Miller trio, exploring his hip-hop interests through collaborations with DJ Pete Rock and DJ Dummy. That’s followed by a set with Riggins leading a group comprised of Miller, Warren Wolf (vibes) and Joe Sanders (bass).
While some fans might ruminate over the idea of leader and sideman switching roles, Miller is clearly open to new roles and music.

Question: This tour brings you back to Yoshi's, a venue you know well not just from performing there but having recorded a two-volume live album. What, for you, is the particular appeal of Yoshi's, both in terms of the venue itself and the audience?
Miller: First, I have a real affinity for the Bay Area jazz audience. They're very hip and very savvy. And then there's the club itself. They possess a very fine Steinway and I think the seating arrangement is good.

Question: You and Karriem Riggins go way back. How did you meet and how you get involved with the Virtuoso Tour?
Miller: Karriem first played with me when he was a teenager – he’s in his 30s now. He was in New York as part of Betty Carter's "Jazz Ahead" project. My former bassist, Richie Goods, recommended him to me. He was the drummer for my trio and sextet for several years. He asked me to take part in this present tour as we're always looking for an excuse to play together.

Question: Most jazz fans know you best as a leader. What are the differences, for you, in the experience of playing piano as a group leader vs. that of a sideman?
Miller: As leader, I am mostly responsible for giving shape to the music. As sideman, I am more responsible to the leader's vision.