Tenor saxophonist Timo Lassy and drummer Teppo “Teddy Rok” Makynen have collaborated for years on the Finnish Jazz scene but this is their first lp as a duo. Makynen demostrates not only is he a wonderful drummer but a top notch composer as well. Makynen’s adventurous compositions provide a challenge for Lassy to stretch out and he delivers. “Liberty pt1 & 2” opens with Lassy delivering fiery free flowing solos. Makynen is equally up to the task with explosive cymbal work as well. On “Telemagenta” Makynen lays out a spirited groove with changing patterns while Lassy’s restrained yet powerful phrasings paint vibrant colors. “Dark Cyan” is a highlight among many that displays Makynen’s affection for electronic music and the boundless directions he can take his music. Makynen’s explosive polyrhythms combined with Lassy’s spiritual playing make for an extraordinary record. Thirteen tracks with each centering around three minutes and all of them packing a punch. Yet another sterling release from the brilliant We Jazz record label. As far as duos go they don’t get much better than this. Let’s hope an encore arrives soon.
