Early in his career, pianist Marc Cary played in a go-go band in Washington, D.C., where he grew up; he also sat in with Dizzy Gillespie when the trumpeter was in town. Cary has gone on to release a number of albums as a leader, and he’s well known for accompanying legends Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln. He played with Lincoln for a dozen years, and his 2013 release For the Love of Abbey pays tribute to the great vocalist and songwriter. The pianist goes it alone as he performs Lincoln’s compositions, Duke Ellington’s “Melancholia,” and two originals, “For Moseka” and “Transmutate.” Things get rolling with one of Lincoln’s most famous songs, “Music Is the Magic.” Cary’s interpretation certainly brings Lincoln to mind, but you can also hear the influence of McCoy Tyner. “Melancholia” is given a dramatic reading that includes a rattling improvisatory journey in the middle section. “Throw It Away” carves out a fine melody that rides a staccato bass part; it's both energized and blue. “Down Here Below the Horizon” is another version of the second track, “Down Here Below.” Cary takes his time as he inventively moves through this wistful piece.