Lee Konitz has been a constant explorer throughout most of his career, never satisfied with a standard approach or falling into a rut with a particular instrumentation. This 1974 duo session with bassist
Red Mitchell, which focuses exclusively on the works of
Cole Porter, is one great example. With an inventive accompanist like
Mitchell spurring him on, the alto saxophonist is able to work magical variations of the familiar
Porter works, while
Konitz retains his remarkable dry signature tone. "Easy to Love" has a bit of a bittersweet air in his hands, as does the more deliberate "Ev'rytime We Say Goodbye."
Mitchell is a bit more subdued in the hip treatment of "'You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To," as
Konitz's intricate improvisation works its magic. The usually over the top "Love for Sale" features an understated arrangement here.
Mitchell switches to piano for "Night and Day," playing a soft bop line behind the leader.