Boston-bred Ryan Hanseler, now a New Orleans resident, gets off to a solid start on Live at Snug, the pianist’s debut as leader. The album kicks in with an original, “Tune for LB,” and it’s immediately apparent that he’s in good company with drummer Peter Varnandu and bassist Lex Warshawsky. They don’t necessarily back the pianist in the trio setting; they are with him from the staggered opening to the swinging interlude as Hanseler creates excitement with lush runs and big chords. No going through the paces here.

For those who become frustrated by an upright bass being buried in a mix, that’s not a problem on this well-recorded album. Warshawsky comes across loud and clear, and that is particularly appreciated as he trades bars with Hanseler on the opener as well as during Thelonious Monk’s “Misterioso.” The pianist goes back to Monk on “Teo” on which he applies some sophisticated swing, moves on to warped speed with Varnandu ultimately topping it off with a hard-core drum solo. Also dig Hanseler’s take on Monk’s “Brilliant Corners.”

Hanseler programs the set well—and thus album—with his mix of originals and tunes from Monk who is obviously an inspiration. The pianist’s lovely ballad, “I Still Think She’s Pretty,” lives up to its title and becomes an instant friend with its comforting yet passionate familiarity. The recording, if not necessarily the performance at Snug Harbor, New Orleans’ renowned jazz club, ends with the soft romance of the standard “I’m Through with Love,” expressively sung by guest artist Gabrielle Cavassa. There’s just plain fun moments, too, as experienced on the happily swinging “Sugar Ray.”

Live at Snug wasn’t meant to be released as an album. It was simply a recording captured by the club of another great night of music in New Orleans being enjoyed by an obviously enthusiastic crowd. Gratefully, that show is now available to a much larger, and what should be an equally appreciative, audience of jazz lovers.