The year was 1987, and seems like just yesterday when these two guitar giants of the jazz world got together for their Collaboration. Rarely have two artists with so much in common been able to record such a classic.

“Mt. Airy Roa” is a Marcus Miller tune that features Benson on the chorus with his famous “scat” intertwined with the crisp acoustic of Klugh. Although it's composed by Miller, it has Benson written all over it. Add in some synth by Jason Miles and this is a great one to start the disc with. Benson adds the next track entitled “Mimosa.” Its deep melody has some Montgomery-inspired work by Benson with Klugh serving as backdrop. The tune is catchy and you find yourself bopping right along to one of the solo refrains by either artist. One of my favorites on the disc is a Klugh number titled “Brazilian Stomp.” It's fast-paced right off the shelf and is in sharp contrast to the first two songs. Klugh begins the work, while all along you know this one's building to a dramatic ending. Benson picks it up about half-way through and it's a race to the finish as the two take turns with their respective solos. Klugh's work is especially sharp, while pushed by the rhythm of Harvey Mason and a return by Benson as they finish the number together on a high note.

Another Miller tune, “Dreamin',” find our two artists laid back as Benson shares the spotlight while giving way to Klugh again. Miles adds in the synth programming to make it complete. “Since You're Gone” has Klugh telling a fine story with his guitar. The melody is good and one that you'll come to want to recognize as soon as you hear it. “Collaboration” was written especially for the project and surprising enough was penned by Harvey Mason and Randy Goodrum. The pace picks up somewhat and you know you're going to hear a good bit from Mason at the beginning. Benson scats the syncopated rhythms while Klugh answers many of the phrases with his acoustic. “ Jamaica ” features Klugh building on the Goodman tune as we feel the warm tropical air settle in. There are some nice jumps that make this one acoustically pleasing to the ear. Miller's background bass is there just enough to add highlights. The disc finishes off with the “Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet.” It's an odd way to finish this one, but they pull it off well.

Maybe you haven't had this one out in a while or may be you're just beginning your collection. But this is definitely one you should listen to real soon. It's rare that two masters meet for such a fine Collaboration.

- H.A. Cline