During a three-day period, pianist
D.D. Jackson recorded a series of duets with some of his favorite musicians; the results are two colorful and diverse CDs that are full of variety, adventure, and a bit of humor. Vol. 1 features the percussive
Jackson in collaborations with tenor and C-melody saxophonist
James Carter (who borders on the hilarious during "Rhythm and Things"), the talented if underrated trumpeter
Hugh Ragin, bassist
Santi Debriano, baritonist
Hamiet Bluiett, violinist
Billy Bang, and tenor saxophonist
David Murray. All of the ten selections (except for two by the trumpeter) are
Jackson originals. Although the second CD is also well worth getting, the first disc gets the edge due to the particularly fine playing of
Carter and
Ragin. An intriguing set that grows in interest with each listening. ~ Scott Yanow