This duo date matches two veterans of the Chicago jazz and blues scene, pianist Erwin Helfer and tenor saxophonist Skinny Williams. The songs they cover draw from jazz, blues and R&B, yet all come together in very soulful settings. Williams' heavy vibrato adds to the mournful theme of "St. James Infirmary" along with Helfer's moving accompaniment. They turn boisterous in their jaunty take of Fats Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin'," as well as their gently swinging approach to "Honeysuckle Rose." Helfer delves into a gospel feeling with his stirring introduction to Percy Mayfield's "Please Send Me Someone to Love." He shows off a bit of stride piano in their playful rendition of the old chestnut "Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue." The pianist's "Pooch Piddle" is a modified form of boogie-woogie, which shifts the rhythms around a bit more. Whether your preference is blues or jazz, there's plenty to enjoy within this delightful duo meeting. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
