Guitarists
John Abercrombie and
John Scofield join forces for these early-'80s sessions, mostly duets while occasionally adding bassist
George Mraz and drummer
Peter Donald. They delve into the jazz canon with an intricate duet of "Solar," a driving, Latin-fused take of "Four on Six" (in which
Abercrombie overdubs an electric mandolin), and a dreamy duo interpretation of "If You Could See Me Now." The sole standard, "I Should Care," fares just as well in their hands, which settles into a relaxed exchange between the two players as if they are playing for themselves alone.
Scofield's "Small Wonder" is scored for the quartet, a bristling post-bop vehicle with a feature for
Mraz as well.
Abercrombie's introspective "Sing Song" best contrasts the styles of the two leaders, with the composer a bit more melodic and
Scofield with a more brittle attack. This is an enjoyable CD that has stood the test of time very well. ~ Ken Dryden