JAZZ SPOTLIGHT : A Harmonic Convergence

**; MCCOY TYNER-BOBBY HUTCHERSON, “Manhattan Moods” ( Blue Note )

No surprises here. Keyboardist Tyner and vibist Hutcherson have teamed before, but “Manhattan Moods” pairs them one-on-one in a gentlemanly session where each is careful not to step on the other’s toes. This makes for a sweet harmonic convergence--their respective instruments are tonally compatible, especially when Hutcherson moves to the woody sounds of marimba--and the two take full advantage of this sonic match made in heaven.

But there’s a little too much mutual admiration in their approach, with each doing little to stir the other. Tyner’s accompaniment is broad yet predictable and Hutcherson responds with lines that, despite a polite beauty, do little to expound on the familiar themes of “Blue Monk,” Mal Waldron’s “Soul Eyes” or “I Love You Porgy.”

Tyner’s best moments come solo as he weaves through the themes with his trademark looping phrases and chordal climbing. Still, he shows little of his fiery side and the recording suffers for it; Hutcherson, unquestionably the best mallet slinger of his generation, could stand a good jump start at times. This pretty collection may be fine for late nights and low lights, but wouldn’t do much to get your motor running come morning.

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