Pianist
Ron Thomas and bassist Paul Klinefelter had worked together for two decades by the time of this 2002 duo session, which shows in the music they produce throughout the date. While it may be a bit of a cliché to say that
Thomas's playing style is descended in part from that of the late
Bill Evans, his lyricism and long, thoughtful lines in the ballads like
Evans' "Time Remembered" are unmistakable. Together with Klinefelter, the duo has the kind of musical E.S.P. that is somewhat rare in jazz, whoever is accompanying the other player always anticipates just where he is going. The intricate improvisation leading into
Charlie Parker's "Yardbird Suite" is a treat, while the breezy samba setting of "Young and Foolish" nicely freshens an old chestnut. The pianist's deliberate "Blues for Zarathustra" leave the listener wanting more. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden