The duo format is maybe the most intimate of all music's collaboration forms. There is nowhere to hide; all frictions and imperfections stand out in the light, and the unspoken is as important as what is said. Combining acoustic guitar and trumpet makes doesn't the format any easier. In this duo, the softness of nylon strings assert themselves against hard brass.

If there is anyone who masters this intricate dance to the fullest, it has to be Ralph Towner and Paolo Fresu. The former is an ECM veteran who has played with everyone: Garbarek, Andersen, Christensen. And Fresu, the Italian trumpet virtuoso is of similar company, playing with a tone that is somewhat reminiscent of a husky Miles. They have unfortunately only found time to release one album, Chiaroscuro from 2008, but its timeless quality has been our reward.

Ralph Towner - acoustic guitars, Paolo Fresu - trumpet, flugelhorn

A trumpet and an acoustic guitar, and that classic ECM sound.