Archie Shepp, Dollar Brand
Duet
Denon (Japan) 1981
YZ-133-ND (LP) Promotional copy. w/insert.
sleeve : VG+(DJS, RW, wear on side and corner)
media : EX+/EX+(some slightly noise)
Released in 1978, this superb duo album brings together American saxophonist Archie Shepp and South African pianist Dollar Brand. Produced by Yoshio Ozawa, it was recorded at Nippon Columbia’s studio during their visit to Japan the same year, and released as a Japan-only project. Highlights include A1, a Dave Burrell / Marion Brown composition transformed into a deeply spiritual performance; A3, a wonderfully moody and dramatic reading of a Mal Waldron classic; B1, their interpretation of the theme from the Japanese film Proof of the Man, scored by Yuji Ohno; and Dollar Brand’s own pieces on B2/B3. Throughout, the album unfolds in an exceptionally atmospheric mood, with beautifully restrained yet deeply expressive playing from both musicians. A truly outstanding session, and the meeting of two personal favorites makes it all the more special. Highly recommended.
A1: Fortunato
A3: Left Alone
B1: Theme from “Proof of the Man”