The combination of guitarist
Howard Alden and bassist
Jack Lesberg works quite well on this intriguing set. The duo performs some spontaneous versions of standards, while other obscure works are fully arranged. The music is mostly swing but also occasionally looks toward the 1920s. Highlights include
Duke Ellington's "Dancers in Love,"
George Van Eps' "I Wrote It for Joe,"
Stuff Smith's "Test Pilot," "Black Beauty," and a pair of
Alden guitar solos:
Carl Kress' "Love Song" and John Smith's "Slow Burning." This lesser-known
Howard Alden release is well worth searching for. ~ Scott Yanow