Houston Person's 2016 album, Chemistry, is a masterclass in nuanced and intimate jazz performances. This deceptively simple yet masterful collection of conversational duets, featuring the legendary saxophonist alongside bassist Ron Carter, is a testament to the pair's telepathic sense of communication. With a carefully curated set list of favourite standards, including 'Bye Bye Blackbird', 'But Beautiful', and 'Blue Monk', Person and Carter delve into the very essence of jazz, crafting an album that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Released on HighNote Records, Chemistry is a 49-minute journey through the realms of jazz, soul jazz, and hard bop, with each of the 10 tracks showcasing the duo's exceptional chemistry. From the melancholic 'Young and Foolish' to the upbeat 'Can't We Be Friends?', Person's tenor saxophone and Carter's double bass blend in perfect harmony, creating a sense of warmth and spontaneity that is nothing short of captivating.
With its release on 17 June 2016, Chemistry marked a significant addition to Houston Person's discography, and its impact has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike. As a testament to the enduring power of jazz, this album is a must-listen for fans of the genre, and a shining example of the magic that can occur when two master musicians come together in perfect harmony.
Vinylscout