Lynne Arriale released her 14th CD as a leader (May, 2018) with her debut on Challenge Records. "Give Us These Days" was recorded in the Netherlands and features renowned Dutch musicians, bassist, Jasper Somsen and drummer, Jasper van Hulten, with a cameo performance from special guest vocalist, Kate McGarry. 

“Give Us These Days,” is ambitious both in its conception and its unbridled sense of wonder. Evolved from the creative genius that foretold her reputation as an extraordinary piano poet and composer, the six original tunes and three arrangements on this CD chart a new course for the trio.  It leads, ever so gently, to the chambers of the heart, there to reflect upon the precious and ephemeral nature of existence.  What emerges is the theme of this record, brilliantly illuminated by the title track:  Given the unpredictability and impermanence of life, savor each moment. 

Arriale’s playing throughout this record is powerful; informed by rigorous classical training, prodigious technique, and seemingly boundless creativity. Her music exhibits a purity, unfettered by ego, and is lifted by a palpable sense of spiritual equanimity.

Group interaction as practiced by this trio is a fine blend of virtuoso playing, individual assertiveness, selflessness, cooperation and a shared commitment to fashion an ensemble sound greater than the sum of its parts.  Above all, each musician must play totally in the moment; responsive to the ebb and flow of sounds from the others.  This creative approach to playing provides a veritable incubator for delightful spontaneities and surprises.  All of these elements animate and enhance the sound of this record, as they have throughout Lynne Arriale’s career.

Whether as a soloist or as leader of the ensembles that bear her name, Lynne’s artistry and influence are profound, and have elevated her stature as composer, arranger and performer to a renown shared by few other jazz musicians. During a career that has spanned thirty-five years, during which Lynne has produced thirteen CDs as a leader, both audiences and critics alike have been enchanted by the fascinating things she “says” as the arbiter of her groups’ compelling musical discussions. For good reason, fans of Lynne Arriale will welcome this exceptional addition to her catalogue.  

Her playing on these pieces--and throughout this record--is powerful; informed by rigorous classical training, prodigious technique, and seemingly boundless creativity.  But there is more; a quiet morality nurtured by her unflagging devotion to this music, unfettered by ego, and lifted by a palpable sense of spiritual equanimity.  Prominent among Lynne’s many compositional tools is her richly-varied, finely-shaded emotional palate.  That, coupled with her unfailing instinct for simplicity and clarity, stand as a bulwark against cliché, sentimentality or self-indulgence, and keep both her writing and playing fresh, thematically diverse, and forever engaging.  Whether Lynne is melting the keyboard as she does in Woodstock, or as in her ballads, seeming to play the instrument without touching it at all, she always sounds unmistakably like Lynne.  On several occasions this writer and contemporary-jazz-radio habitué has tuned in and recognized, simply by chancing upon any two bars of an unidentified track, that he is hearing Lynne Arriale.

"...there's an overarching feel of freedom and joy that surpasses all that came before.  Majestic themes typically build intensity over the tracks while allowing Lynne's bandmates plenty of room to shine...This album sits atop a discography that continually evolves, from an artist who manages to combine the ethereal and ferocious.  And one who never lets us forget the melody."
Jazz Police

"When pianist Lynne Arriale plays the first notes on her new album... jazz that sounds so elegant and powerful, from such a sound and such energy, you just want more and you will not be disappointed over the entire length of the album.

...her absolutely determined, and truly impressive, musical strength has certainly contributed to her successful 25 year-long international career. Her concerts are an experience... of concentrated intensity.

Lynne Arriale becomes a sister in the musical spirit of power players such as John Coltrane's pianist McCoy Tyner.

In jazz, developing your own musical personality, your own unique voice that stands out from all the others, tops the list of crucial achievements. On her 14th album, Lynne Arriale demonstrates how to use this gift to repeatedly convince and surprise her audience. The result is brilliant, and I urge you to listen to it for yourself."
Bayerische Rundfunk, Germany

"...the improvised melody flows in a rush through Arriale's fingers, as if the power of the combined forces of the trio were unable to contain the music."
Jazz History Online