This CD came about in an interesting way. Guitarist
Irio de Paula and pianist
Franco d'Andrea had worked together right after the guitarist relocated to Italy, but it had been a number years since then. They planned to record a duo date in the studio for Philology, but a taped concert prior to it came out so well, it was issued instead. The adventurous approach to "Blue Bossa," their tense interpretation of "Blue in Green," the playfulness of "Star Eyes," and "Speak Low" are the best examples of how well each of them comps for the other's solo. They even manage to salvage the usually lightweight "Comin' Home Baby." One major gaff is the mislabeling of "Caravan" as "Naima." An added bonus is a rehearsal session consisting of four numbers that feature the duo's initial, unedited renditions of three pieces later recorded in concert, plus
John Coltrane's "Like Sonny." This is yet another gem from the small but prolific Philology label. ~ Ken Dryden