This collaboration by
Tom Collier and
Dan Dean is a bit reminiscent at times of
Gary Burton and
Steve Swallow, possibly because that project might have been the only previous set of vibes-electric bass duets. Vibraphonist
Collier hints at
Burton in spots, but also displays his own musical personality, particularly on the more boppish pieces, such as
Gerry Mulligan's "Five Brothers" and "So What."
Dean is a particularly fluent and witty electric bassist, and although he is generally in a supportive role, he sometimes steals solo honors. This unusual set, which has interpretations that range from the heated to the introspective, works quite well and is quite enjoyable. ~ Scott Yanow