Socially Distanced Duos
Self-Released, 2021
8/10
Listen to Socially Distanced Duos
The alto saxophonist Jeff Pearring brings us an album entirely of duets, that, despite being distanced, emit much chemistry and strong communication as he works with 6 different musicians across 8 frisky jazz tunes.
“Twisting Pavement” leads the listen with Billy Mintz’s inviting drums as Pearring’s bright and soulful alto sax enters the rhythmic duet, and “Time In Isolation” follows with Mintz and Pearring again aligning for the gentle jazz waltz that showcases the alto sax.
At the mid point, “A Continuous Conversation Renewed” displays Ken Filiano’s precise bass plucking alongside Pearring’s adventurous brass work, while “Solar” places Cameron Brown on bass as the pair do justice to the Miles Davis original with much playfulness.
Inching towards the end, “Present Value Impact, The Gift” finds itself in ballad territory, where horns from Pearring and Daniel Carter harmonize together in unconventional ways, and “Extempore Arquitectura”, with Francisco Mela on drums, finds the adventurous duet beginning furious yet calculated, before shifting into sublime, warm and cautious towards the finish.
A very good example of just how impactful and creative a duet can be in the right hands, for fans of modern and free jazz, there won’t be a second to miss on this exciting effort.
Travels well with: Julian Gerstin- Music For The Exploration Of Elusive Phenomena; Bob Mintzer & WDR Big Band Cologne- Soundscapes