David Chevan and Warren Byrd: Let Us Break Bread Together

Pianist Warren Byrd and bassist David Chevan work together on these duo improvisations, melding a variety of approaches into a coherent whole. Much of the music borrows heavily from a blues-rich gospel sound, while other portions represent more traditional jazz. The spirituals feature rolling piano trills and a relaxed, sauntering feel. The Jewish tune "Oseh Shalom," with its unspoken prayer book lyrics and synagogue origins, receives straight-ahead jazz treatment. And the duo perform the traditional "Eliyahu HaNavi" with a up-tempo swinging feel, featuring solos by both players. On other selections they broaden their sound with the used of extended techniques. Let Us Break Bread Together successfully accomplishes its goal of combining African-American and Jewish experiences, offering a mixture of music which can be appreciated from any cultural perspective. And there's no reason not to tap your toes while the music dances forward.