It’s been a busy year for José James. The neo-soul/jazz singer has already worked with the likes of Flying Lotus, Gilles Peterson and DJ Mitsu the Beats to name a few. He released what is, without question, one of 2010’s standout albums with Blackmagic. And now he’s back at it – this time with jazz pianist Jef Neve.

Their collaborative effort, For All We Know, is about as elemental as an album can get. One piano. One singer. However, as simple as it may seem, James and Neve are careful to not settle for the pure basics. They turn the musicality knobs way past ten and deliver some of the most enjoyable jazz of the year by flipping the script on some of the most notable classics of all time.

For All We Know opens with “Autumn In New York,” revealing just how impossibly perfect James’ baritone vocals melt into Neve’s tender piano licks. The utterly smooth song lures the listener into what is a truly progressive yet approachable jazz album (not a common combination). This is followed by a reinterpretation of George and Ira Gershwin’s “Embraceable You,” which leaves some room for Neve to experiment with piano solos that add an extra layer of depth to the intelligence of the album.

It’s hard to say who really owns this album. There are times when Neve’s soundscapes steal the show, such as on the aforementioned “Embraceable You.” Then there are moments when James absolutely controls the tempo, precisely landing every note with perfect pitch and volume. “Body and Soul” allows James to stretch his vocal dexterity during the first half then pass the reigns to Neve for a jaw-dropping piano spotlight during the body of the song.

Not only is the song selection fantastic – other notables include “When I Fall In Love,” “Tenderly,” and Billy Strayhorn’s “Lush Life” – but the chemistry between the two musicians is equally impeccable. There is a like-mindedness that keeps both James and Neve on the same page, while still offering each other the freedom that classical jazz demands. There are definite boundaries in place on this album, which perhaps cuts short any outlandish progressive jazz, but that’s not this album’s goal. For All We Know succeeds because it is the brilliantly accessible and gorgeous work of two of the brightest names in jazz.

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