Pierre Bensusan/Didier Malherbe: Live In Paris

This set of original material features the talents of acoustic guitarist Bensusan and former Gong reedman Malherbe. The creative, entrancing results transcend their respective new age and fusion backgrounds.

Throughout, Bensusan provides airy accompaniments that he occasionally abandons for his own free-flowing solo outings, while Malherbe uncannily follows his every move on an array of woodwinds. On “Fetish,” articulate flute work sets the stage for the entrance of delicate guitar arpeggios, which kaleidoscopically shift grooves. “1000 Valleys” begins with a familiar Methenyesque guitar motif that soon heads for uncharted territory, providing a vehicle for soprano sax and several bright moments of highly intuitive ensemble work. “Alive” is an impromptu improvisation that encompasses dissonances, quirky tones, jazz-like interludes, and more of the musical mindreading that characterizes this duo’s general approach. Creative improvisation of a different sort, courtesy of two master musicians.

Originally Published December 1, 1998