Although they have utilized the talents of some of the same musicians through the years (most notably
Steve Swallow) and both recorded for ECM, vibraphonist
Gary Burton and pianist
Paul Bley had not recorded before this 1990 Copenhagen session. The combination generally works, with some of
Burton's romanticism and melodic approach rubbing off on
Bley during the date (the usually somber pianist actually sounds a little lighthearted during "Isn't It Romantic") while the vibist sometimes emulates Bley's emphasis on space. On their six duets,
Burton and
Bley do not take turns soloing per se as much as alternate being the lead voice. Their unaccompanied features (three apiece) are generally in the same introspective but exploratory mood, making this a quiet program of thought-provoking if occasionally sleepy music.