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Pianist/composer Fred Hersch and vocalist/bassist/songwriter Esperanza Spalding can both be counted among the most acclaimed and inventive artists in modern jazz. The Village Vanguard is the music's most revered venue, having played host to countless legendary musicians and beloved live recordings. The duo and the club converge for a magical performance on Alive at the Village Vanguard, a rare opportunity for listeners to enjoy the singular and thrilling collaboration between two marquee jazz artists at the top of their game. Alive at the Village Vanguard showcases the astonishing chemistry shared by these two master musicians, who bring out distinctive aspects in each other's playing. Hersch and spalding have convened for only a handful of New York City performances since their first meeting in 2013 during the pianist's annual duo series at the Jazz Standard. In that limited time, the pair has developed a wholly personal approach, not only in the annals of piano-voice duets but in their own already-highly individual practices. Taking the stage with no set arrangements and only a vague sense of the repertoire they'll explore, the dauntless pair delights in playing without a safety net. "This recording sounds like you're in the best seat in the Vanguard for a very live experience," says Hersch. "You can really feel the vitality of the room, of the audience, and of our interplay. We decided on the word Alive for the album title as you can really feel the intimacy and energy of the performances."