Let's Call This...Esteem!

Recensione album

Steve Lacy and Mal Waldron have performed together so many times that it's easy to take them for granted. But that would be a mistake. Every one of their duos is filled with surprises and roads taken to curious and unsuspected destinations. This recording is no different. While it features the Monk charts for which the duo is noted, it highlights Ellington's "In a Sentimental Mood" and Strayhorn's "Johnny Come Lately," in addition to a few originals. Performed live in concert in Oxford, this generous, well-recorded set captures Waldron and Lacy in a very strong performance, one in which they stretch admirably. While this one differs only minutely from some of the other collaborations between these two outstanding musicians, the rewards are plentiful, and both the novice and experienced listener will thrill to the nuanced excitement.