Duo piano performances always have the possibility of being overcrowded, too dense and a bit directionless. Fortunately, this live set from the Montreal Bistro in Toronto, Canada avoids the potential flaws. Pianists
Harold Mabern
and
Geoff Keezer
(who also comprise 2/5ths of
the Contemporary Piano Ensemble
) have complementary styles and blend together quite well on the set. Dedicated to
Phineas Newborn
, with two of
Newborn's
songs included (
"Jate"
and "While My Lady Sleeps"), there are also selections by
Leroy Vinnegar
,
Duke Pearson
("Jeannine"),
Nat Cole
Mabern
("Rakin' & Scrapin").
takes
Cole Porter's
"I Get a Kick Out of You" as his feature, while
Keezer
is showcased solo on
Thad Jones'
"Consummation." A swinging high-quality set within the modern mainstream. ~ Scott Yanow