Sparks

During the recording of "Sparks," a song I had written for bass player Phil Sparks, Elvin answered one of my phrases with a snare rim shot that cracked off the ceiling and shot through my spine. At that moment, I revelled in the blessing that Elvin and I were having a musical conversation. This master artist, who I had heard on so many of my favorite recordings, was listening to me and interacting with what I played.

Later, Elvin came close to me and said, "You can really play."

"Really?" I was dumbfounded.