Avi Rothbard: Twin Song

Twin Song, guitarist Avi Rothbard's second recording, is a funky, atmospheric exploration. Rothbard's group, which includes organist Jared Gold, drummer Joe Strasser and guest tenor saxophonist Wayne Escoffery (on three tracks), works as a tight unit, inviting the listener in on spirited musical conversations. The opening "Preach's Inches is a soulful, infectious groove that's hard not to dance along to; the subsequent up-tempo "Minor Impact really lets each musician burn. They slow things down with the ballad "Cheerleader. The title track is a swinging 6/8 workout.

Other highlights on the recording include "Five Corners, a moody 5/4 tune, and "The Password, a beautifully executed solo guitar piece. Rothbard's compositions are fully realized and clever, still retaining their emotional center. Strasser and Gold, who make a great rhythm section, are skilled in the art of listening. It is a joy to hear the interplay among the musicians. Overall, Twin Song is an excellent recording.