In October and November 1996,
Jay Leonhart spent two weeks aboard the SS Norway, where he sailed around different parts of the Caribbean and was a prominent performer for the ship's "jazz cruise." During those two weeks, the acoustic bassist kept busy playing duets with
Dave Frishberg and being part of the group
New York Swing.
Great Duets, however, doesn't focus on either of those activities, but rather, documents a series of intimate duets
Leonhart performed with various pianists and guitarists. Embracing mostly bop,
Leonhart is in good form on duets with guitarists
Bucky Pizzarelli and
Gene Bertoncini as well as pianists ranging from
Mike LeDonne and
Bill Charlap to
John Bunch,
Norman Simmons and
Richard Wyands. The only vocal comes when
Leonhart teams up with
Joe Williams on the blues "5 O'Clock in the Morning," which was recorded when the singer was 77. Sadly,
Williams' voice had declined considerably, and it's painfully obvious that he was way past his prime. But apart from
Williams' weak performance, this is an enjoyable CD that
Leonhart can be proud of. ~ Alex Henderson