Stan Getz
's final recording, a two-CD live set of duets with pianist
Kenny Barron
that was cut just three months before his death, finds the great tenor in surprisingly creative form despite an occasional shortness of breath.
Getz
's tone is as beautiful as ever and he does not spare himself on this often exquisite set. His version of
Charlie Haden
's
"First Song"
is a highlight but none of the 14 performances are less than great. A brilliant farewell recording by a masterful jazzman. ~ Scott Yanow