ALBUM REVIEW : *** 1/2 RENEE ROSNES “Renee Rosnes” <i> Blue Note</i> :<i> Albums are rated from five stars (a classic) to one star (poor). </i>

This is Rosnes’ first album as a leader, and the Vancouver-trained pianist takes full advantage of it. Her approach is mainly an extension of 1970s bop; her companions include Branford Marsalis on two tunes and Ralph Bowen’s muscular tenor on three others. Driving solos on her own “I.A. Blues” and Cole Porter’s “Everything I Love” as well as a fluent examination of Joe Henderson’s “Punjab” are highlights. Weakening the set are Ron Carter’s uninspired bass work, Rosnes’ synthesizer-and-soprano saxophone duet with Wayne Shorter, and a pretentious attempt at a piano duet with Herbie Hancock.