Fans of Keith Jarrett always welcome the announcement of a new release – and I’m sure that “Jasmine” will figure strongly for many in his most recent discography.

For this new recording he departs from his now almost traditional trio setting for an intimate and heartfelt session of duets with double-bassist Charlie Haden, a one-time member of Keith’s celebrated “American quartet”. The album CD marks a 33 year reunion for the two and came about 3 years ago when the pianist was asked to contribute to a documentary film about his former band-mate (Rambling Boy, which screened at last year’s Melbourne International Jazz Festival, where Charlie also head-lined) which led to the two getting together for some informal playing. They enjoyed it so much that they then adjourned to Keith’s home studio for 4 days of recording.

“Jasmine” is the culmination of almost 3 years of listening and discussion – with the best of those 4 days eventually chosen for release. The focus is on jazz standards and their performances are filled with warmth and subtlety, beautifully poised and almost completely unadorned. It includes such time-honoured pieces as “Body and Soul”, “Goodbye”, “For All We Know” and “Don’t Ever Leave Me” … Jarrett says: “This is spontaneous music made on the spot without any preparation save our dedication throughout our lives that we won’t accept a substitute. These are great love songs played by players who are trying, mostly, to keep the message intact. I hope you can hear it the way we did.”

The CD also makes a wonderful companion piece to Keith’s solo piano recording “The Melody At Night With You”, also recorded in the intimacy of his home studio.