The album showcases the deep musical rapport between Bickert and Thompson, who had played together for years in various settings, including Paul Desmond’s "Canadian Group".
: Bickert is celebrated for his "piano-like" approach to the guitar, using complex reharmonized chords and dense voicings. His choice of a Fender Telecaster—an unusual instrument for jazz at the time—contributes to his signature warm, lyrical tone. Ed Bickert & Don Thompson - At the Garden Party...
The original 1979 Sackville release featured seven duo tracks. A 2004 CD reissue expanded the album to include four bonus tracks from a 1976 trio session with drummer . Track Title Alone Together Dietz/Schwartz A Face Like Yours Feldman/Wolf You Are Too Beautiful Rodgers/Hart What Is This Thing Called Love? Cole Porter Who Can I Turn To? Engvick/Wilder Walkin' My Baby Back Home Ahlert/Turk Please Be Kind Cahn/Chaplin The album showcases the deep musical rapport between
Toronto, the album is widely regarded as a "hidden gem" and a masterclass in duo improvisation. Musical Significance and Style The original 1979 Sackville release featured seven duo
Experience the intimate atmosphere and harmonic interplay of the duo in this performance of 'Alone Together': Ed Bickert (1978) [ALONE TOGETHER] JGC History YouTube• Dec 12, 2020
: The record won the 1980 Juno Award for Best Jazz Recording . Critics often compare the duo’s chemistry to the legendary collaborations of Jim Hall and Ron Carter. Tracklist and Editions
Released in 1979, At the Garden Party is a seminal live recording by Canadian jazz legends (guitar) and Don Thompson (bass). Recorded on January 22, 1978, at The Garden Party in