The concept of virtuosity is often misunderstood as an outsized display of technique. In truth though, by definition and in reality, it’s about mastery. Such expertise is just as likely to be shown in measured command as it is to appear as fireworks, and this absorbing duo date is a firm reminder of that fact. Legendary bassist Ron Carter and eminent guitarist Yotam Silberstein each possess extraordinary skills and have the wisdom and experience to know when not to flaunt them. That balance between sparkle and spare elegance is what makes Duets such a delight to behold. Crafted in part as a tribute to the late Jim Hall and a nod to the Carter-Hall partnership — and recorded, by divine coincidence, on Hall’s birthday — this music, nevertheless, speaks to its own…
Tag Archive: Ron Carter
Blue Note Records and Motown Gospel have joined forces for an unprecedented hybrid album, Sweet, Sweet Spirit, featuring Ron Carter’s improvisational bass lines underpinning gospel great Ricky Dillard’s famed New G Chorale. Whether this new venture will encourage jazz listeners to listen to traditional gospel remains to be seen, though Carter’s name alone will draw many to this effort. Although Carter’s bass is prominent enough in the mix, the choir’s power is overwhelmingly potent on every track. Fortunately, there are different lead vocalists throughout to provide some differentiation. The choir is clearly ‘the’ instrument, while Carter’s bass work serves as a narrator. As mentioned previously on other projects, many of these elder NEA Jazz Masters like Carter, have long-held dream…