Ivory Forest Redux

A glorious re-issue from 1980, pianist Hal Galper reminds us why this release is worthy of hearing again and again. His guitarist is a young fellow named John Scofield, whose ability is well on its way to what would ultimately make him a jazz legend. Galper's piano runs are full of fire and fury, and he and Scofield are perfect musical foils for one another. Scofield has turned his guitar's "tone" knob back a bit, unselfishly leaving room on the top end for the keyboard while the guitar runs roughshod through the middle. The two are unafraid to push the musical envelope because they know the rhythm section of Wayne Dockery (bass) and Adam Nussbaum (drums) will be right there to receive them when the lead instruments reel themselves back in. "Rapunzel's Luncheonette" is worth the price of admission. No doubt it burned the studio down when it was recorded 40 years ago, because the smoldering embers remain to this day. A most rewarding listen.