Shinichi Kato & Masahiko Sato - Duet (2001)

Bassist Shinichi Kato composed all 11 selections included on this CD, a set of duets with pianist Masahiko Sato. Because the first four numbers are all ballads that emphasize out-of-tempo playing, this CD gets off to a very slow start. The second half of the program is more exciting, with excellent interplay between the two musicians and some solid swinging along with some chance taking. They react to each other's ideas quickly and some sparks do occur. It is just a pity that the first few numbers are a bit dull; better planning and programming would have improved this disc.