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Azica Records, Inc. Just DuetJAZZ L.A. Jazz Scene October 1997 Azica Jazz AJD-72205 Holly Hofmann, flute Flutist Holly Hofmann (based in San Diego) and Bill Cunliffe (who plays often in both Los Angeles and New York) have teamed up in several different situations during the past couple years, most notably as a duet. Their recent CD (available from Azica, 1641 Eddy Rd., Cleveland, OH 44112) finds the two-piece band to be a very self-sufficient unit with a surprising amount of variety.
During a set that ranges from hot boppish stomps (such as "Powell's Prances", "I Mean You" and "High Flutin' Blues) to explorative and at times wistful versions of ballads ("Time To Say Goodbye" and "Old Folks") and Schumann's "Three Romances," Hofmann and Cunliffe consistently inspire each other. The close musical communication between the pair is quite impressive as are their spontaneous ideas and quick reactions. The music is moody but generally quite upbeat and, although based in bop, it is not limited by its boundaries. The closing "Home" is a change of pace with Cunliffe playing synthesizer and Mark Libby added on percussion. Otherwise this is a strictly acoustic (but often electrifying) collaboration. Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Scott Yanow Review 1, 2, 3,
4 © 2001 Azica Records, Inc. email egre@azica.com
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