All Too Soon

• Artist: Mort Weiss/Ron Eschete
• Rating:
• Release Date: October 21, 2008
• Total Time: 0:00
• Genre: Jazz

Review

Since emerging from years in jazz exile to reassert himself as one of the 2000s most compelling and critically acclaimed clarinetists, Mort Weiss' eclectic discography has been highlighted by collaborations with Hammond B-3 master Joey DeFrancesco and saxman/flutist Sam Most (who also re-emerged from the wilderness around the same time). Famed L.A. based guitarist Ron Eschete, whose résumé includes jazz greats both late (Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie) and modern (Diana Krall), has been lurking beautifully behind the scenes during most of these recordings (though Weiss' first album, No Place to Hide, was fashioned as something of a duet also). Now he steps back into the spotlight as an equal collaborator on another wonderful and eclectic date featuring lively, swirling twists on unique choices of standards including "Be My Love," "Dearly Beloved," and "Afternoon in Paris." Their general vibe is to let Weiss carry the wistful melodies and tasteful improvisations while Eschete keeps the easy rhythms and crisp harmony lines flowing; the solos Eschete peppers in are poetic hypnosis in motion. The overall cool swinging feeling of the date is offset by charming, subtle explorations of ballads like "Emily." "D Jango" has a little of both, starting as a thoughtful reflection before breaking into a spirited little jaunt with wild improvisations. Weiss' liner notes lament the decline of great jazz clubs and the lack of recognition for his own choice of instrument. Fortunately for the real jazz fans out there, this session, recorded on his 73rd birthday, lets his optimism triumph over that frustration. ~ Jonathan Widran, Rovi

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