If there is a down side to the release, it is that there tends to be a sameness to several of the duo pieces. Those pieces also seem to be almost too reserved at times. On the last song, "Make Peace," though, Mehldau and Metheny open things up in the last third of the song before slowly taking it all back down again. Given its dynamics, the song truly leaves you wanting more. And while the overall mellow and warm tones make the CD a delightful listening experience, part of you wants them to let loose a bit more often.
This aspect of the recording may lead some to wish there were more performances by the quartet. Others, however, may easily prefer the duo presentations. Regardless, fans of either artist can't go wrong with this and it may even be a good opportunity to get a flavor for each.
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1 - Connie Phillips
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