Just Jazz Just Two

Album review

Brooklyn based pianist Sibirsky and Australian native-NYC resident (since '78, ) bassist Wall have tons of experience working in the Big Apple music scene. Their clear empathy and listening skills are put to the drummerless test on this set of relaxed jazz selections. On the ten tracks, you hear soulful, resonant renditions of standards like "Love Me Or Leave Me," "Embracable You," "My Old Flame" and "I Remember You."
Some of the compositions Sibirsky is credited with writing are based on well known, slightly reharmonized themes; i.e. "South Eight," ("Out Of This World") and "For Graeme" ("What Is This Thing Called Love?") Others as "Blues For Ted," and "Blame Me" are a bit freer from cliches. Sibirsky's piano rings out with a sense of purpose and reflects his literate, classical education. While mixed in the background, Wall's basslines act as a buoy, supporting the flowing piano of his bandmate. This is unhurried, patient, cool, non-threatening jazz of which a lack of urgency is its hallmark. Together Sibirsky & Wall create a timeless jazz sound, good for late night or your typical cocktail lounge. This CD's a sleeper, and it is one whose underlying treasures and conscious subtleties should not be passed over. In these frantic modern times, a good tonic for the troops. Recommended.

© Michael G. Nastos /TiVo