This two-record set combines two distinctly separate studio dates, the earlier one featuring Jean-Luc Ponty, the latter with Stephane Grappelli leading a completely different group not including Ponty; the two records were likely issued separately in Europe before being combined in this package. Ponty could have made remained a valuable contributor to straight-ahead jazz if he had continued his early love affair with bop. Several numbers show Charlie Parker's influence, especially in his slashing attack in "Une Nuit Au Violon," "Au Privave" and the very effective take of "Night In Tunisia." Pianist Eddy Louiss and drummer Daniel Humair, who later formed a working trio with Ponty, are valuable assets, as is the occasional addition of flautist M. Portal. Grappelli's record has fewer surprises, as most of the material and playing will be familiar to his fans. The master was clearly in his prime, joined by guitarist Diz Disley, pianist Marc Hemmeler, bassist Lenny Bush and drummer John Spencer, with Hemmeler moving to organ when Alan Clare sits in on piano on three tracks. Though the gospel-flavored approach to "Willow Weep for Me" is rather novel, the remainder of the album hasn't aged as well as the Ponty record compiled with it, deserving a lower rating by a half star. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
