The easy rapport between pianist Jeff Colella and bassist Putter Smith gives Between Friends the warmth and spontaneity of an unhurried musical conversation. Following their earlier duo recording, the two longtime collaborators reunite for an intimate session in which Colella’s lyrical touch and spacious harmonies pair beautifully with Smith’s deep, woody tone and expressive melodic […]
The easy rapport between pianist Jeff Colella and bassist Putter Smith gives Between Friends the warmth and spontaneity of an unhurried musical conversation. Following their earlier duo recording, the two longtime collaborators reunite for an intimate session in which Colella’s lyrical touch and spacious harmonies pair beautifully with Smith’s deep, woody tone and expressive melodic lines. Their original compositions move between tenderness, reflection and gentle rhythmic tension, while works by Bill Evans, Kenny Barron, Thelonious Monk, Billy Strayhorn and Ralph Towner are approached with subtle invention and a refreshing sense of freedom. With no drummer to define the pulse, Colella and Smith listen closely, trade ideas naturally and make effective use of silence, creating a thoughtful recording grounded in trust, patience, and understated swing.
