Carol Liebowitz, piano
Nick Lyons, alto saxophone
REVIEW OF FIRST SET
…Most of this disc was recorded live at Connie Crothers’ loft series. All of the songs were written or improvised by the duo except for two songs by Ms. Crothers. Commencing with “Carol’s Dream,” the duo do sound like they are emerging from a dream: elegant, warm, sublime and filled with subtle spirits. Mr. Lyons has a splendid, rich and compelling Lee Konitz-like tone. Although this music sounds improvised, the duo seem to know exactly where each other is going, matching many of their lines gracefully. They sound as if they are completing each others’ lines at times. They also stretch out reaching past established boundaries at times, balancing just right without falling in or over the edge. As these pieces progress, the duo go further out yet remain together as they weave their tight lines around one another. The set closer is Ms. Crothers’ song, “Roy’s Joy” which does have a most uplifting, joyous vibe and reminds me of great vibes which often emanated from trumpeter Roy Campbell, another wonderful Downtown musician who passed away not that long ago. This is a great duo who work especially well together and sound as if they have been playing together for many years.
Bruce Lee Gallanter, Downtown Music Gallery
December 2016