Eric Alexander & Mike Ledonne; Together

This incredible duo session marks something of a departure for the gifted tenor player Eric Alexander. First, to my knowledge it is his initial release in a duo setting. And in Mike Ledonne, he works with a pianist filled with flowing ideas and passion. Second, Alexander does not play tenor exclusively here. The opener will grab your attention immediately. It's called “For Mabes” and it's a demanding, challenging roller coaster ride. The twosome then settle into three standards: “Autumn In New York”, “Round Midnight”, and “I'm In The Mood For Love”. Each has something that gives it a new look. It might be tempo, jet-like improvisation, or simply the ideal communication between the two artists. The album continues with tenderness in Ledonne's solo on his ballad “Lost But Not Forgotten”, and that is followed by some high flying originals. All of them illustrate the amazing oneness of these two players. For instance, “Mutation” seemed to be loosely based on Sonny Rollins' “Airegin”. The last of the standards is “The Nearness Of You” beautifully interpreted by the two. It should be clearly stated here that this is high artistry and an amazing meeting of two masters of their craft. You'll be glued to your chair by this one!

Cellar Music Group; 2024; appx. 47 min.