A somber, stately, altogether pensive tone permeates this 1997 date on which ECM stalwarts Tomasz Stanko and Bobo Stenson work their sensitive magic on 10 original pieces. Odes to sadness, such as "Morning Heavy Song," "Forlorn Walk," and "A Farewell to Maria" are taken at a dirge-like pace, allowing each musician space and time to explore the nuances of melancholy and introspection. Of particular interest is drummer Tony Oxley's contribution. More widely known for his highly textural, free-form style with musicians such as Cecil Taylor and Derek Bailey, here he adds sparse and wry commentary to the brooding music. Along with bassist Anders Jormin, he maintains a floating sense of pulse, around which Stanko's full trumpet sound and Stenson's feathery touch on the piano can ruminate. Not only does his drumming provide unconventional, though appropriate, new sounds (via an expanded drum kit), his masterful use of space gives the music a welcome element of mystery, adding yet another dimension to its depth.

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Leosia - Cd

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