This is one of the more unusual records in the sizable discography of
James Williams; it is a 1981 duo piano session with Czech pianist
Emil Viklicky, issued by the Supraphon label in Czechoslovakia.
Viklicky became familiar with
Williams' work during a visit to the U.S. in 1978 and later studied at Berklee, though after
Williams had already left the faculty to work as a member of
Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. By the time of their 1981 meeting in the studio in Prague, each musician brought compelling originals to the session, as well as seeking to find new ground in time-tested standards and classic jazz compositions.
Williams' intriguing jazz waltz "For My Nephews" proves to be a strong opener.
Viklicky's driving bop tribute "One for J.W." also works extremely well.
Cole Porter's "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To" is tackled at a brisk tempo with a bossa nova undercurrent. The pianists devour
Thelonious Monk's "Rhythm-A-Ning" with a playful interpretation. Whether or not this excellent record is still available in the Czech Republic, it is unlikely to be easy to find elsewhere.