4 out of 5

Label: Challenge Records International

Produced by: Bobby Previte & Ray Anderson

Double Trouble is a pretty dramatic title for this crossover between trombonist Ray Anderson and drummer Bobby Previte; there’s a little cartoon icon on the edge of the CD liner that adds a comedic undertone to things that’s maybe closer to the truth. But I prefer instead cover artist Natasja Wallenburg’s representation: two differently colored sets of lines, intersecting at right angles.

“Double Trouble” has some looseness befitting its title, but its moreso a very precise work, balanced between two incredibly skilled players who know exactly how much room to give the other.

“Double’s” bookends are of a more traditional variety, with Anderson adding ambient horn toodles with Previte tippy-tapping, warmly; I recognize this brand of jazz has its fans, but my ears are harder to reach with it, and I’m admittedly here as an appreciator of the way Previte tends to inject some rock-like edge against or alongside his collaborators. The opening ‘Homage for Charles Moffet’ does lead us into some of that, but it’s really with the Previte-written ‘Austerity’ that things kick off in full. From here on out, the duo continue swapping songwriting credits, but there’s incredibly synergy in their approaches, generally giving way for Bobby to set the pace, and Anderson comes in a really grounds the rhythm with some earthy melodies, taking off at very controlled moments – akin to a guitar solo instead of free jazz freakouts.

Whoever’s leading, it’s not just a showoff showcase; time is put into setting down a solid groove, then softly backing to the side for the other to strut their stuff – you’re never just listening to the trombone or drums.

The bookends thus function well as warm-ups and cool downs, but I’d still say there’s less overall personality there – I hear less nuance I’d associate with either player – and I’d take another 2 or 3 upbeat tracks instead.