With the release of their Toluca Jazz two in-demand sidemen of the Southern California jazz scene step into the spotlight. Gitarist Doug MacDonald and bassist Harvey Newmark serve up a dish of easygoing, laidback tracks, six of them MacDonald originals, and seven standards, including a rather shy version of Coltrane's Village Blues.
The two men have an instant rapport, with their instrument blending seamlessly. Their superb technical dexterity to play blues-tinged jazz and gentle swaying bossa nova gets in the way of the spontaniety. A bit more risk taking would not have hurt. When the floor is yours, make it count.
