Last Dance

Keith Jarrett and Charlie Haden's follow-up to 2010’s Jasmine features nine additional songs from recording sessions in Jarrett’s home studio in 2007. Last Dance is as lovely as its counterpart (and the musicians’ earlier work); it features a number of previously unreleased tunes as well as an alternate version of “Where Can I Go Without You” and a slightly slower take on “Goodbye." Haden consistently explored his romantic inclinations on his Quartet West recordings, but Jarrett also reveals a more serene side here—both more conversational than his solo performances and warmer than his transcendent trio work. Haden solos vibrantly (and most soulfully on “My Old Flame”), always striking a tasteful, expressive tone. Jarrett’s willingness to share the song (“My Ship”) is noteworthy, as is his stunning work in the reshaping of “’Round Midnight.” Briefly breaking the balladic spell, the midtempo piece “Dance of the Infidels” showcases an expansive Jarrett and a groovin’ Haden and rounds out this beautiful collaboration.