Live
Dot Time, 2021
8/10
The legendary trombonist Roswell Rudd and esteemed guitarist Duck Baker join forces here for a very interesting and cozy live record that embraces folk and blues into their jazz focused formula.
“The Happenings” opens the listen with meticulous acoustic guitar before the soulful and lively trombone enters the equation, and “Buddy Bolden’s Blues” continues this approach with both grit and melody present and appreciated.
Halfway through, “Well, You Needn’t” displays a very cautious approach as the pair work together in an intimate setting, while “Bemshaw Swing” places much beauty on the guitar amid the bright and expressive brass.
Nearing the end, “Light Blue” emits folk nods into the timeless jazz climate that’s also quite playful, and “Church” finishes the listen with both players showcasing their respective talents with precise fingerstyle guitar playing and vivid horn prowess.
The tracks here were recorded during two sessions, but flow together seamlessly, and the sound quality is top notch. A very enticing platform for Rudd and Baker’s immense talent, you might not feel that a duet record between guitar and trombone could yield such a result, but in these very capable hands it’s to be expected.
Travels well with: Cecil Taylor- The Complete, Legendary, Live Return Concert; The Art Ensemble Of Chicago- Tutankhamun