Kris Davis: piano; Craig Taborn: piano.

Kris Davis & Craig Taborn: Octopus

by Don Phipps
February 28, 2018

Combining discrete notes with splashes and collages of sound, the music of pianists Kris Davis and Craig Taborn on Octopus showcases improvisational prowess at the highest levels. The live recording challenges listeners with electric and sometimes jarring compositions that appear to send shards of musical light in every direction. Davis provides two compositions for the album and Taborn three. In addition, the pianists cover two tunes, both by keyboard players--Carla Bley's “Sing Me Softly of The Blues" and ...