Mark O'Leary / Han Bennink: Television

O'Leary's customary volume control techniques coupled with Bennink's cymbal shadings serve as textural components. However, the duo often seizes any given moment by way of a consortium of reverse- engineering maneuvers and soaring choruses. Not necessarily a slugfest, the musicians show a deep-rooted comprehension of each other's moves and styles. And, of course, they exercise a cordial balance of sorts, where they nicely blend some muscle-flexing episodes with a few quieter moments, featuring O'Leary's delicate voicings.

At various times they morph bluesy passages into linearly executed workouts, with Bennink a multifaceted polyrhythmic machine throughout the scope of O'Leary's single-note flurries. But they deflect ideas off one another with fluid runs and cat-and-mouse exchanges. Otherwise, they tone it down some with an off- kilter, New Orleans shuffle groove highlighted on the album's closer "Nothing New." To that end, the musicians perpetuate an optimistic outlook that transcends many of the more austere endeavors of this ilk. It's quite obvious they were enjoying themselves, which is a facet that is communicated in altogether mesmeric fashion. Bennink is the elder statesman here, yet O'Leary shines as an apprentice who has come of age—even though this set was recorded back in 2001.

Visit Mark O'Leary and Han Bennin on the web.

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