Cornetist Ruby Braff and pianist Ellis Larkins recorded a classic album of duets in 1955 and had a reunion in 1972. They waited another 22 years before cutting their third set but, despite the passing of time, the magic heard on their earlier recordings is still very much present on their Arbors release. Both Braff and Larkins love melodies and rarely leave the themes behind in their improvisations. They perform 15 Irving Berlin tunes, ranging from the famous ("Alexander's Ragtime Band," "Easter Parade," and "How Deep Is ...
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Cornetist Ruby Braff and pianist Ellis Larkins recorded a classic album of duets in 1955 and had a reunion in 1972. They waited another 22 years before cutting their third set but, despite the passing of time, the magic heard on their earlier recordings is still very much present on their Arbors release. Both Braff and Larkins love melodies and rarely leave the themes behind in their improvisations. They perform 15 Irving Berlin tunes, ranging from the famous ("Alexander's Ragtime Band," "Easter Parade," and "How Deep Is the Ocean") to the more obscure ("My Walking Stick," "You're Laughing at Me," and "Steppin' out with My Baby"). In all cases the interpretations are loving, personal, and uplifting. Guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli makes the group a trio on two numbers, and his mellow playing fits right in to the intimate setting. Because Braff (who has always had his own sound) has long been a jazz giant, and Larkins is rightfully considered an extraordinary accompanist and perfect on melodic ballads, their most recent matchup is quite successful and delightful. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi
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