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".
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
: Thompson acts as an equal partner rather than a mere accompanist, with his acoustic bass providing both a rhythmic foundation and melodic counterpoint. Ed Bickert & Don Thompson - At the Garden Party...
Toronto, the album is widely regarded as a "hidden gem" and a masterclass in duo improvisation. Musical Significance and Style
: 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 The album showcases the deep musical rapport between
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
Note: Tracks 8–11 on reissues (e.g., "Come Rain or Come Shine," "One Morning in May") feature the trio format recorded at Captain Audio in 1976. Musical Significance and Style : The record won
: 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.