Intermodulation

Intermodulation continues the two-man conversation that was begun several years earlier with Undercurrent. Pianist Bill Evans and guitarist Jim Hall, both by this point towering figures in the post-cool jazz firmament, basically pick up where they had left off, exploring the standards book but bringing their unique sensibilities to the familiar melodies. One of the most impressive accomplishments of this album is the degree to which they manage to swing powerfully without the help of a rhythm section — note in particular the propulsive vibe they create on “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Each is as fine an accompanist as he is a soloist.