The indefatigable 83-year-old legend has made solo bass sets a key component of his discography, consistently exploring the format since the late 1960s. According to the artist himself, this offering is a valedictory statement and, if so, it is a stunning way to sign off. As with a virtuoso on any instrument Phillips can catch the ear with a single note or relatively simple phrase, but it is his poise, self-possession and desire to work with space and silence, rather than rush to fill it, that makes this work so compelling. There is such clarity in both the developmental path and the ambience of each piece, possibly a fringe benefit from Philips’ extensive work in film music. When a theme comes back into earshot, none more so than the wistful strummed chords reminiscent of a North African string instrument such as the oud, the impact is enormous. While Phillips’ fingered lines have wonderfully precise articulation his arco work is outstanding, again because of the balance he shows in an approach where he doesn't overplay but still fashions a textural range that moves coherently from dark and fibrous to light and luminous. Free of superficial pyrotechnics, this is a masterfully measured work that should appeal as much to lovers of song as to students of sound.