Howard Riley - Duets March 2002 (LP)

"Duets March 2002" is a captivating free jazz album that captures the spontaneous and dynamic interplay between two master improvisors, pianist Howard Riley and saxophonist Lol Coxhill. Recorded live at The Holywell Music Room in Oxford on March 13, 2002, this album is a testament to the raw power and creativity of live improvisation. The 12-track album, released on January 1, 2003, under Slam Productions, spans a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.

The album opens with "Breaking the Habit," setting the stage for a journey through a variety of moods and textures. Tracks like "Solo for Lol" and "Exemplary" showcase the individual artistry of Coxhill and Riley, respectively, while pieces such as "Blankets" and "Say Yes" highlight their seamless synergy. The album's title track, "Duology," and the closing piece, "Broom Dust," underscore the depth and complexity of their musical conversation.

Fans of free jazz will appreciate the album's unstructured yet cohesive nature, as Riley and Coxhill navigate through a landscape of spontaneous melodies and rhythms. The live recording adds an extra layer of authenticity, capturing the energy and immediacy of the performance. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Duets March 2002" offers a compelling exploration of improvisational music at its finest.