The pairing of
Bob Mintzer and
Gil Goldstein as a duo is an inspired affair. With
Mintzer playing tenor sax and
Goldstein on piano, they each contributed a number of strong originals to the date.
Mintzer's moody ballad "Longing" and intricate bop vehicle "Where's the Word" are among his finest compositions on CD.
Goldstein's "Three Little Initials" is a subtle variation of the well known "Body and Soul."
Mintzer switches to bass clarinet for
Goldstein's lush ballad "Angelique & Ellen" (written for the film Radio Inside), a haunting treatment of the late
Bill Evans' "Your Story," along with a fascinating rendition of the standard "Everything Happens to Me" that begins with an unaccompanied
Eric Dolphy-inspired solo by the reed player.
Goldstein's "Two to Tango" is a delightful upbeat duet for bass clarinet and accordion. Highly recommended! ~ Ken Dryden