Although best known for playing bluesy , has always been a superior and pianist, too. On this 1997 set, he teams up with a pair of Canadians (bassist and drummer ) to explore seven , only two of which ( ) are -oriented. These live performances feature in particularly creative form and interacting closely with his sidemen. Their lengthy renditions of (which is over 12 and a half minutes long), and are especially rewarding. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow