Kenny Wheeler & John Taylor - On The Way To Two (2015)

When this album was mooted, following the death of Kenny Wheeler, it seemed impossible that by the time of its release both protagonists would be gone. And so, what was intended as a tribute to the great Canadian trumpet player, is instead a memorial to two musicians who, in their understated way, dominated jazz in the UK through the 70s and 80s, recording together in the band Azimuth and then on key labels ECM and Cam Jazz, creating a body of work that will stand witness to their greatness. Released from CAM JAZZ s archives 'On The Way To Two' was recorded in 2005 featuring 10 songs over a total 45 minutes of stunning music. Complex themes alternate with short improvised passages, as proof of that natural, special feeling that bound the two musicians. Before Taylor died, he wrote in the liner notes his valediction to Wheeler: 'It was a privilege and joy to play with you for most of my life, and I wish you were here now to listen to this music again with me'. 'On The Way to Two' demonstrates and celebrates the empathy that these two musicians managed to build and develop over the long years of their playing together.