A Place for Bass – Chamber Jazz Duets

As a lifelong jazz bassist myself, I’m impressed by the fact that this album exists, especially with the focus being on the bass, an often overlooked instrument. “Bass-in Street Blues” put a smile on my face instantly. What’s not to love about this body of music? Greg and Mason are in total agreement throughout, as they smoothly negotiate the various complexities of this wide variety of challenging compositions with masterful precision. Their unison melodies, and intricate transitions are absolutely amazing! They’ve redefined playing together. They complement each other’s solo offerings as if they’re a single organism. Constantly lyrical and swinging, whether playing improvised or written components, these are two mature musicians making concise musical statements from beginning to end. The key factor here is a refreshingly prevalent and collective confidence and warmth, which unerringly prevails on every track, each containing its own story, conveyed with clarity and always conversational in content. This is an album that will withstand repeated listening, I think everyone will agree that Greg and Mason truly nailed this one! I love the subtleties of the writing and their uncluttered and coherent interplay during their solos. A collection of “Chamber Jazz Duets” with emphasis on the bass, conceived and performed intelligently. Overall, I think most people will enjoy this listenable album of original works, thoughtfully steeped in the jazz tradition, while uniquely adventurous, creative and sensitive. On the McJolt meter, I give it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐