The piano-led trio is a staple of jazz. And when it’s presented with freshness and energy, the results can be wonderful. So it is with Janice Friedman Trio’s Live at Kitano (Consolidated Artists Productions, 2015).

Pianist Janice Friedman is joined on this date by drummer Victor Lewis and bassist Ed Howard. The songs are recorded from a July 20, 2011, performance at Jazz at Kitano in New York City.

On your mark, “Get Set” begins the show in delightful fashion. This brief selection showcases Friedman’s ability to get the audience engaged from the first note. One of three Friedman originals, it’s a promise of things to come. Think Bill Evans, Erroll Garner or any of several other classic jazz pianists. About midway through is a playful call and response between Friedman and Lewis.

The trio takes on Cal Tjader’s “Curucao.” The arrangement is both haunting and adventurous, the latter not adventurous musically so much as it inspires visualization of a trip to an exotic place. The tourists pause to watch street performers, represented by Lewis’ solo.

The trio also covers songs by George Gershwin and DuBose Heyward, Dr. Billy Taylor and Dick Dallas, Billy Holliday and Arthur Herzog Jr., among others. Friedman sings on three tracks, including “Lonely Sky,” which she co-wrote with Lee Charles Kelley.

“Kitano is an intimate, listening room with an educated audience,” Friedman says. “There’s nothing like the energy you get from playing in front of enthusiastic people. Like riding a wave, all is done on the spot – no hiding, no safety net, completely honest.”

Friedman was brought up on piano trio music. Her parents listened to several of the greats. In addition to Evans, Garner and Taylor, she was exposed to Ahmad Jamal, Marian McPartland and Oscar Peterson. Live at Kitano is her fifth release as a leader.