Following an extensive international tour, Cedar Walton and his quartet entered the studio in December 1980 at the height of their collective powers. The Maestro captures a band forged on the road-refined, intuitive, and deeply connected-delivering performances that balance precision with spontaneity. At the center is Walton's unmistakable voice as a composer and pianist, blending blues-rooted swing with harmonic depth and lyrical clarity. The program moves effortlessly between Walton originals and timeless standards, each rendered with elegance and purpose. A defining highlight is the presence of Abbey Lincoln, whose intimate and expressive vocal performances add a profound emotional dimension to the recording. Her collaboration with Walton elevates the title track into a poignant tribute that resonates beyond the moment. Featuring a masterful ensemble-Bob Berg (tenor saxophone), David Williams (bass), and Billy Higgins (drums)-The Maestro stands as a document of a working band at it's peak: cohesive, dynamic, and deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. Digitally remastered in 2026, this reissue restores a vital chapter in Cedar Walton's legacy with renewed clarity and presence.

Tracklist:

The Maestro 4:58 (Cedar Walton)
Rhythm-A-Ning 6:38 (Thelonious Monk)
Not in Love 3:30 (Cedar Walton)
Sabi 6:22 (Antonio Carlos Jobim, Chico Buarque)
A Sentimental Mood 6:50 (Duke Ellington, Manny Kurtz, Irving Mills)
Blue Monk 4:49 (Thelonious Monk)
Castles 4:49 (Cedar Walton)
On the Trail 3:40 (Ferde Grofe)

UPC: 686647334403
Label: Squatty Roo Records
Release Date: 7.3.26
Format: CD

Cedar Walton - Maestro (With Special Guest Abbey Lincoln) (CD)