This 1993 recording is a follow-up to an earlier duo session by
Andy LaVerne and
John Abercrombie, although they add bassist
George Mraz and drummer
Adam Nussbaum for this date. Following a rather upbeat, introspective arrangement of the standard "Beautiful Love," they stick to originals by either the pianist or the guitarist.
LaVerne's "Mother of Pearl" is a shimmering post-bop work that is full of surprises, while "Opal" is a treasure of a different sort, prominently featuring
Abercrombie's brittle-sounding electric guitar.
Abercrombie's "Monk Like" has a quirky line much like its namesake might employ, and the unpredictable ballad "Farewell" serves as an appropriate conclusion to this enjoyable CD.
–
Ken Dryden, Rovi