Benny & Bucky – Live At The Dakota

Benny & Bucky – Live At The Dakota
Written by Mario Carrington

Jazz musicians are among the most accomplished individuals in the art of “in the moment” conversations which require superior listening skills. This is most apparent in small group combinations, unless you are Bill Evans and able to have eloquent “Conversations With Myself.” In September 2008, a live recording by the duo of Benny Green and Bucky Pizzarelli, in the intimate confines of the Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis, yielded a blissful conversation between two immense talents.

Green on piano and Pizzarelli on guitar offer their interpretations of classics from The Great American Songbook, featuring compositions by Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer and John Green, among others. The album opens with Green’s introduction of “These Foolish Things” and Pizzarelli, on his seven-string Benedetto guitar, joins the chorus at the absolutely perfect moment. The beauty of their conversations on the album is in evidence with this opening arrangement–they take turns making statements that elicit responses in support of what was just said, expand the dialogue in a new direction, engage in point/counterpoint, summarize the discussion, and then bring the discourse to a satisfying close.

Album highlights include Pizzarelli beginning “On Green Dolphin Street” followed closely by Green; their interplay allows the listener to become immediately engaged and recognize the tune. “Tangerine,” “In a Mellow Tone” “In a Sentimental Mood” and “Satin Doll” also deliver in a similar manner. “If I Had You” has a sobering extended opening by Green and then Pizzarelli thoughtfully comes aboard, resulting a meditative vibe.

The Dakota has been a long-time cultural beacon on the landscape of the Twin Cities and the pairing of Green and Pizzarelli in concert was inspired. Add this release to your list of must-buy CDs.

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