Changes & Changes

by Steven A. LoewyBoth under-appreciated masters of jazz improvisation, Odean Pope and pianist Dave Burrell dish up some beautiful music throughout the nine original compositions found on this disk. This may seem like a somewhat subdued set for the label and these two giants, but anyone who has followed their careers knows that, although both musicians are identified as players pushing the edge, neither one of these fellows is a scorcher. Instead, the focus is on melodic invention, tasteful winding lines, beautiful tone, and logical constructs. The synchronicity is astonishing, as the saxophone and piano perform as one, anticipating each other's moves. If it feels a bit less adventurous than it might have been, it is nonetheless filled with plenty of hidden treasures and is a fine example of the art of the jazz duo.