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  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ MY FAVORITE THINGS: THE MUSIC OF RICHARD RODGERS
CONCORD 4631 (Barcode: 4003099805620) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1994
This is an album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with Czech bassist George MrazFind albums by this artist and American drummer Alan DawsonFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the album presents eleven tracks, all of which were composed by Richard RodgersFind albums by this artist, one of the most important creators of the American Songbook.
Makowicz, who left Poland in 1977 and settled first in the US and later on in Canada, is the only representative of the Polish Jazz scene to achieve a remarkable success in America. He fully embraced the American Jazz aesthetics, concentrating on playing mainstream Jazz, which includes the treasures of the American Jazz standards as well as his own compositions, which are in similar vein.
This album presents a set of highly imaginative interpretations of familiar songs by Rodgers, which often deviate quite radically from the originals, but retain the spirit of the compositions, even when the original tempo is significantly changed. Makowicz manages to deploy his entire repertoire of virtuosic tricks of the trade, playing neck-breaking arpeggios and running up and down the keyboard with brilliantly delicate touch. He is splendidly accompanied by the rhythm section, especially closely-knit with Mraz, who is an absolute wizard, and who recorded quite a few other albums with Makowicz over the years, which of course means they communicate almost telepathically.
Overall, this is another beautiful album by Makowicz, who in fact never recorded anything below his usual top standard, which offers some challenging and interesting interpretations of familiar material, which might take even the most experienced Jazz listener by surprise. Sadly, both Mraz and Dawson are no longer with us, so this album is a splendid tribute to their talents. Makowicz is alive and kicking, recording and performing actively, to the delight of his numerous fans and followers. This is a true gem, especially to those listeners, who think there is nothing new that can be done with these standards any more.
| | Updated: 06/07/2024Posted: 06/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
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