Jim Hall & Basses
Jim Hall has a talent for reducing music to its essence: the barest glimpse of melody, the subtlest inflection, the most imaginative harmonic choice. His economy and empathy have led to some brilliant duo performances during his career, including sets withBill EvansandRon Carter, and those qualities distinguish his encounters here with some outstanding bassists. The materials range from standards and fresh Hall compositions to free improvisation, and the results match low-level volume with intense creative activity, as Hall seems to find the essential character of each of his partners. Hall andDave Hollandhave worked frequently as a duo, and they're particularly imaginative together, Hall turning to a 12-string guitar to accompany Holland's lead on "End the Beguine." The two also maintain constant undercurrents of supportive play in a driving, soulful tribute to the great Sam Jones.Charlie Haden's sparse, low-register lyricism on "Don't Explain" complements Hall's own, whileChristian McBridegenerates strong propulsion and an emphasis on fundamentals on two Hall compositions written with him in mind, the blues "Bent Blue" and the waltz "Dog Walk." Hall also matches up withGeorge Mrazand his regular bassistScott Colley, both for duets and a series of adventurous trios with guitar and two basses, from the complex atonal dialogue of "Abstract 3" to the profound longing of Mraz's keening bow work on "Tango Loco."--Stuart Broomer