by Steven Loewy

Kahil El'Zabar and

David Murray

last recorded together in 1989, and this reunion more than a decade later compares favorably. This one features a diverse repertoire, documenting the enormous range of these two masterful players. Whether on his thumb piano, body rhythm, hand drums, congas, or the Earth Drum, El'Zabar is a serious performer whose music delves far into the soul. He wrote most of the pieces for this album, which reflects his deep spirituality and ability to play in a multitude of styles.

Murray

, of course, has been widely recorded (some might say over-recorded) in a wide range of contexts, but he is heard here to wonderful effect, whether on tenor sax or bass clarinet. From hard bop, to ballads, to adventurous escapades -- it is all here. As with other issues on the CIMP label, there are no commercial concessions, and the two musicians achieve a duality in which they often achieve an almost spiritual union. A warmth permeates the music, and the results make for worthwhile listening.