Few of French pianist Martial Solal's recordings as a leader have been made available in the U.S. through the years. This set, originally cut for MPS and then released domestically on a 1981 Pausa LP, will be difficult to find, but is worth the search. The stimulating pianist is heard in a set of duets with bassist Niels Henning Orsted-Pedersen, performing five standards, two of his originals and Pedersen's "Afternoons Sentiment." Although essentially straight-ahead, the music is quite spontaneous and full of surprises. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
01. Spring Swing (Bernhard Sperrfechter/Gerd Mayer-Mendez)
02. My One and Only Love (Guy Wood)
03. Note-Ability (martial Solal)
04. The Continental (Con Conrad)
05. Lalos (Martial Solal)
06. Afternoons Sentiment (NHØP)
07. Autumn Leaves (Joseph Kosma)
08. Donna Lee (Miles Davis)
NIELS-HENNING ØRSTED PEDERSEN double bass
MARTIAL SOLAL piano
Recorded July 26, 1976
MPS Records - DC 228 606 Germany