Phil Woods has regularly collaborated with other alto saxophonists on small group dates throughout much of his career, working with Gene Quill, Lee Konitz, Bud Shank, George Robert, and others. While in Europe in 2005, altoist Benjamin Koppel, a promising young man who released a number of CDs as a leader for Cowbell Music the following year, invited Woods to make a guest appearance on this studio date, which also includes veteran drummer Alex Riel's trio with seasoned bassist Mads Vinding and pianist Heine Hansen. Like all alto players who encounter Phil Woods, the much younger Koppel is on fire due to the presence of his idol. Koppel's ambitious set list includes seven of his originals, with Woods usually soloing first. The angular, punchy Chess Party is lots of fun, alternating between exchanges and unison lines before the solos. K.O. (I'm Fishing in the Seine) has the flavor of Thelonious Monk with its staccato theme. Woods chose two of his favorite standards, blazing on all cylinders in Autumn Leaves while sharing the spotlight with Koppel in an engaging 'How High the Moon. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden, Rovi

1		Chess Party
2		Mother's Song
3		36-14 (A Bop Result)
4		How High the Moon
5		Pass the Bebop
6		K.O. (I'm Fishing in the Seine)
7		Autumn Leaves
8		Before the Concert
9		Razorbill Relaxin'

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