Abby & Norm Group: Volume 1: The Book Of Norm

"Old Blues" represents much of the session. Zocher's guitar (the featured instrumental voice) moves furtively in and out of the limelight with a down-home charm and rock-influenced technical prowess. Pianist Bevan Manson, whose day job is chairman of the jazz department at the University of California in Berkeley, comps with a wide array of tools and solos frequently. His approach is consistent with the guitarist's slant; however, the mix takes him to a more subdued volume level. Bassist Aronson, whose degree is in classical guitar performance, favors a lyrical accompaniment technique with fiery solo lines. George Garzone's contributions to the session are special in their apparent ease of movement. While his motion is highly creative and spontaneous, the saxophonist's manner gives one the outward impression that things are consistently smooth and laid-back. All that action taking place in the arena, and yet the scenery seems mellow. It's a perfect mix.

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