Originating from a Japanese concert, this CD from M-A teams together pianist Milcho Leviev in duets with superb bassist Dave Holland. The music ranges from variations of standards to more introspective interplay and stimulating originals by the duo. High points include versions of Leviev's "Up and Down" and Holland's challenging and rather exciting "Jumpin' In." Although the bassist has a fair share of solo space, Leviev's command of the keyboard constantly grabs one's attention; he has long been one of Los Angeles' unheralded treasures. This recommended disc concludes (as do all of M-A's discs) with a selection taken from another CD, a fine performance by pianist Todd Garfinkle. - Scot Yanow
Tracks
01. Billy's Bounce (Charlie Parker)
02. Quiet Fire (Dave Holland)
03. Cosmopolis (Dave Holland)
04. Up and Down (Milcho Leviev)
05. Jumping In (Dave Holland)
06. Cavatina (Cleo Laine/Stanley Myers)
07. Letter to Yana (Milch Leviev)
08. Once upon a Time (John Abercrombie)
09. Con Mucho Gusto (Milcho Leviev)
10. What Is This Called Love? (Cole Porter)
11. First Flight (Todd Garfinkle)
MILCHO LEVIEV piano
DAVE HOLLAND bass
Recorded live at Suntory Hall, Tokyo, September 15, 1987
MA Recordings - M002A