"Common Ground" is a captivating collaboration between the legendary guitarist Robben Ford and saxophonist Bill Evans, both esteemed alumni of Miles Davis' band. Released on September 30, 2022, under the MPS label, this album is a vibrant fusion of modern blues, blues rock, jazz blues, soul blues, and jazz fusion, spanning a dynamic 56 minutes.
The album features a powerful set of tracks, including the title track "Common Ground," which showcases the vocals of popular German singer Max Mutzke. Other standout tracks like "Ever Ready Sunday," "Crabshaw Don't Care," and "Hearts of Havana" highlight the intricate interplay between Ford's guitar and Evans' saxophone, blending complex compositions with a free and wild spirit. The music is perfectly paced, drawing from the best elements of be-bop and blues, creating a rich and engaging listening experience.
With the rhythm section solidified by Darryl Jones on bass and Keith Carlock on drums, "Common Ground" is a testament to the chemistry and shared history between Ford and Evans, who have performed together across Europe, North America, and Japan. This album is not just a follow-up to their previous collaboration, "The Sun," but a fresh exploration of their musical synergy, offering a blend of funk, blues, and jazz-rock that is both sophisticated and accessible.
Available in CD, LP, and digital formats, "Common Ground" is a must-listen for fans of blues and jazz, showcasing the timeless talent of Robben Ford and Bill Evans.