March 7, 2019
The teaming of Joe Lovano and Greg Osby, two of the most exciting saxophonists of the ’90s, is kind of a dream come true, and it’s a pleasure to say that Friendly Fire doesn’t disappoint. True, it may not be as adventurous as some listeners may have hoped for, but it’s undoubtedly vibrant hard bop with an evident adventurous streak. Lovano and Osby are both first-class improvisers, and they turn in dynamic performances throughout the album, whether it’s on originals or standards. They turn Friendly Fire into a compelling listen that’s the musical equivalent of the title’s promise.
