George Haslam - Duos East West

Saxophonist George Haslam performing with pianists Vladimir Solyanik Ruben Ferrero and in duos (and one trio with the additional double bass) in Eastern Europe and Latin America.

Personnel tracks 1-5: George Haslam (baritone saxophone, taragato on track 3), Vladimir Solyanik (piano, tracks 1-5). Recorded at Ukrainian Broadcasting Co. Kiev, Ukraine. 11 June 1997.

Personnel tracks 6-10: George Haslam (baritone saxophone), Ruben Ferrero (piano), Mono Hurtado (double bass - track 10). Recorded at Moebia Studio, 30 Aug 1997, tracks 9-10 recorded at Aguaribay Studio, 30 Aug 1997, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

'Haslam has combined his talents with two distinguished, if little heard, pianists to create a memorable CD, one that brims with emotion and the sound of special musical contact. - Stuart Broomer, Cadence

Both sets are committed to a creative course and Haslam is in relaxed form on both. On the Kiev set we have his tarogato cutting a swathe through the opening and conclusion of Odessa. It is his authoritative baritone work on the languid Long Day and in his Aylerish treatment of Barbara Allen that he makes his biggest impression. In Buenos Aires his throbbing vibrato adds emotional depth to Rio De La Plata, he is excitingly inventive on Please Don't Ask and he really attacks Which Brother. - Barry McRae, Jazz Journal