April 16, 2018. Pianist Leslie Pintchik was on her way to a doctorate in 17th century English literature at Columbia University when she realized jazz was her true calling.
Maybe her love of literature opened the door for such a creative album title. Pintchik’s You Eat My Food, You Drink My Wine, You Steal My Girl! makes off—with Scott Hardy on guitar and bass, Michael Sarin on drums and Satoshi Takeishi on percussion, along with a few guests on other tracks.
Pintchik has a history of infusing standards with new interest, and that remains true here: “I’m Glad There Is You” and “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” take on new lives. The rest of this record showcases her originals, notably the title track and “Mortal,” with Ron Horton on trumpet and flugelhorn, and the great Steve Wilson on alto sax.
The addition of Shoko Nagai’s accordion makes “Hopperesque” and “Happy Dog” extra fun. On “Hopperesque,” the instrument is a nice accompaniment to Pintchik’s delicate musical storytelling. On the latter, it adds an almost Parisian feel, imbuing “Happy Dog” with a sparkling personality. (As if it needs it!)
Leslie Pintchik’s artistry has been making WRTI audiences happy for years, and this album continues that trend. You Eat Me Food, You Drink My Wine, You Steal My Girl! is full of character, and has a welcome place in our library.