"Peru" is an original Jonathan Kreisberg composition from his trio's 2004 album New For Now, featuring an exotic Latin feel that evokes its South American namesake. The 34-bar form in E major provides an unusual structural framework, its odd length creating a sense of asymmetry that keeps the improvisation fresh and unpredictable. Kreisberg's three-chorus electric guitar solo at 203 beats per minute combines the Latin groove's rhythmic vitality with post-bop harmonic sophistication, his lines flowing with a naturalness that belies the music's complexity. Gary Versace contributes two choruses on Hammond organ, his playing responsive to the composition's rhythmic character while bringing his own harmonic personality to the solo. Mark Ferber's drumming navigates the Latin feel with authority, providing both propulsive energy and subtle dynamic shadings. The composition reflects Kreisberg's interest in incorporating world music rhythms into a jazz framework without sacrificing improvisational depth. As one of several originals on New For Now, "Peru" demonstrates the guitarist's developing voice as a composer, his pieces serving as effective vehicles for trio improvisation while possessing distinctive melodic and harmonic identities. The track adds a welcome splash of rhythmic color to the album's diverse program.
