Since 1995, whenever Aki Takase has not been making solo recordings, she has always sought the company of Rudi Mahal: The depth of their knowledge of jazz history and their craft-oriented approach are self-evident – if actually rather secondary to their remarkable, dazzlingly entertaining connections between a tempered drive toward freedom and a quite specific wit that shows how to take life both as seriously and as lightly as possible. Their take on this striking collection of evergreens moves through airy amusement, the serious rapport of a sensitive give and take, intellectual juggling, and bizarre dance theater as they wander between aesthetic peaks. – The CD is a stroll through many styles, from stride piano in "You Took Advantage of Me" to free-jazz impressions in "You and the Night and the Music" or the surprisingly pensive paraphrase of "It's Only a Paper Moon." This is vital chamber music, infinitely rich and imaginative, featuring the complex and miraculous sound of the best bass clarinetist in the world.

Cover art and graphic design: Jonas Schoder
Liner notes: Ulrich Olshausen
Photo: Fumi Udo

Recorded July, 4 and 5, 2008 by Rainer Robben at AudioCue in Berlin. Mixed and mastered by Rainer Robben, Rudi Mahall and Aki Takase, Pianotuning: René George, Producedby Intakt Records, Patrik Landolt