Lee Konitz arrived in Toronto in the spring of 2005 for a concert and television show taping, setting up the opportunity for a studio recording session with veteran Canadian pianist
Brian Dickinson. The recording took place at the Glenn Gould Studio, which is named for the late internationally acclaimed classical pianist who called the city home. The cool-toned alto saxophonist responds to
Dickinson's swinging accompaniment, delving into a number of standards and memorable jazz compositions, highlighted by the interpretations of "Invitation" and the rhapsodic setting of "If You Could See Me Now." There are also several of
Konitz's well known, delightful works based upon standards like the upbeat "It's You" ("It's You Or No One") and the intricate "Thingin'" ("All the Things You Are"). The pianist contributed a pair of originals to the date, including the subtle ballad "You Go" and his spirited "The Kindness of Strangers." This is yet another rewarding chapter added to
Lee Konitz's extensive discography, with the added bonus of helping a talented pianist gain wider exposure outside of Canada. ~ Ken Dryden