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 and
Mabern ("Rakin' & Scrapin").
Mabern 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.