Artist: Mal Waldron & George Haslam
Title: Waldron – Haslam
Cat Number: SLAMCD305
Year released: 1994
Format: CD & all digital platforms
Barcode: 5028386030522
The first duo recording between legendary US pianist Mal Waldron and British saxophonist George Haslam, who play four original compositions/improvisations as well as songs by Duke Ellington, Leonard Bernstein, Frank Loesser and Brahms.
Recorded at SRT Studios, St. Ives, 24th February 1994.
Mal Waldron: piano
George Haslam: baritone saxophone
“Mal Waldron’s dark, circumspect approach is in full force as he carves agile lines with the help of British baritone saxophonist George Haslam… Haslam boasts a singularly attractive, thin tone that balances the pianist’s dense styling. The commanding improvisations by both Haslam and Waldron straddle the boundaries of free and post-bop jazz in a compellingly charming way.” – ★★★★ Steve Loewy, AllMusic
“These engaging duet records with Haslam don’t have the gravitas and sheer monumentality of the best Waldron, but their friendly dialogue has its own rewards and at some moments there is the trademark dry, lyrical intensity, which is in all of the pianist’s best work…Haslam’s light, flexible lines make an attractively serene counterpoint. Excellent recording on both discs.” – The Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD