Record Reviews
14 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | JAN GUNNAR HOFF ~ FLY NORTH!
LOSEN 119 (Barcode: 7090025831195) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is the fourteenth recording as a leader by the celebrated Norwegian pianist / composer Jan Gunnar HoffFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with Norwegian trumpeter Arve HenriksenFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and Danish (born in US) drummer / percussionist Marilyn MazurFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Hoff.
Recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, this album is the epitome of what is known as Scandinavian Jazz or Scandinavian Sound, popularized for decades by ECM Records. Characterized by slow, melancholic, introvert and minimalistic melody lines and delicate, rounded notes, that seem to be floating like leaves in the wind or flowers on the (icy) water, The Scandinavian Sound has many avid followers around the globe and honestly nobody even tries to mimic this unique phenomenon, not even the Chinese ;)
Of course Scandinavian Sound is often criticized by (mostly American) Jazz fans and critics for being tedious and lacking the basic daring Jazz spirit of exploration and discovery. Sadly in some cases this is indeed true, but certainly the entire idiom is very far from that shortsighted criticism, and in many cases produces extraordinary music, full of intelligence and deep emotion, and proudly representing the multifaceted European Jazz.
There is no doubt that this music, apart from being breathtakingly beautiful, is also very communicative. The ability of musicians to communicate with their audiences without compromising their artistic vision is often underestimated, and this album is a superb example of such a case. This music can be absorbed on many different levels, from the purely emotional to the deeply intellectual, with each of these levels having something magical to offer to the listener.
Although the focus of the album is directed towards Hoff´s piano, which he plays with grace and virtuosity, the other members of the quartet also contribute enormously; Henriksen´s "flute-like" trumpet sound is absolutely unique and captivating, Jormin, who is one of my all times favorite bassists, plays marvelously and his long melodic lines are a balsam to the ears and finally Mazur is, as always, more ornamenting the proceedings with her delicate and wonderfully timed touches, rather than setting the rhythms.
Overall this is an instant Scandinavian Sound classic, which was warmly received upon its release and surely will keep many listeners happy in years to come!
| | Updated: 08/03/2016Posted: 08/03/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAZZBALTICA ENSEMBLE / DAVID MURRAY ~ BALTIC SUITE
GOWI 05 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1992 Released: 1993
This is a relatively little known album recorded live by a large assembly of Jazz musicians from several countries situated around the Baltic Sea, called JazzBaltica EnsembleFind albums by this artist, directed by American saxophonist / composer David MurrayFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded during the second JazzBaltica Festival held in Germany. The ensemble included some of the absolutely top-notch Jazz players from the Baltic countries, such as Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist, Finnish drummer Jukkis UotilaFind albums by this artist and many others. Another American taking part in the ensemble is tuba player Howard JohnsonFind albums by this artist, who very often plays with European Jazz musicians. The music is a suite arranged for a large ensemble / Big Band, which comprises of several earlier compositions by Murray, which were reworked anew and incorporated into a coherent suite.
The music is a wonderful example of a Big Band setting, which allows for a series of expanded improvisations by all the participants, either individually or in small groups, accompanied by the entire ensemble. Although clear melodic themes are stated periodically, most of the music is freely improvised and allows for a large degree of individual expression. The solos are all exceptional, which is not surprising considering the incredible level of the musicians involved.
Although directed by Murray, this is typically European Jazz, with its relaxed and even somewhat melancholic ambience and sophisticated solos, which open up and explore new sonorities well beyond the standard Big Band arrangements. Several of these solo excursions depart beyond the thematic framework of the pieces, which build up this suite, being completely free spirited and spontaneously created, which is a norm as far as European Big Bands are concerned.
Overall this is a superb piece of large ensemble music, exquisitely performed and worthy of an honorable place among other similar efforts of European Jazz. For Tomasz Stanko aficionados, like myself, this is simply a must, especially since so few people know about this album!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ ALL MY RELATIONS
ECM 1557 (Barcode: 731452734426) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ CANTO
ECM 1635 (Barcode: 731453734524) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform seven original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ NOTES FROM BIG SUR
ECM 1465 (Barcode: 731451199929) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Ralph PetersonFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ THE CALL
ECM 1522 (Barcode: 602517799240) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2008
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform nine original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ FROM THE GREEN HILL
ECM 1680 (Barcode: 731454733625) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. This album, perhaps the most atypical one ever recorded by Stanko so far, presents his music somewhat away from the usual Jazz setting, with strong contemporary Classical and World Music influences. Not only the music, but also the choice of the musicians participating in this recording, is quite different from everything he attempted before. British saxophone Giant John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Argentinean bandoneon player Dino SaluzziFind albums by this artist, American violinist Michelle MakarskiFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist create an amazing amalgam of sounds and musical ventures, travelling along Stanko´s vision. Of the fourteen relatively short pieces on this album nine were composed by Stanko, two by his Mentor Krzysztof Komeda and three by Surman. The overall effect is like a strange and enchanted sound voyage, which moves around the globe oblivious of borders and distances. Although quite demanding and less glamorous than other Stanko albums, it is full of beauty and charm and definitely worthy of admiration, like everything Stanko ever recorded. Superb stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Who would have thought that an accordion (OK, bandoneon) could be a major enhancement of a Stanko album or a Surman album? But it is - and Messrs S&S are a fabulous partnership.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LEOSIA
ECM 1603 (Barcode: 731453169326) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, dedicated to his late Mother, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. Stanko´s compositions on this album are more melodic and lyrical than usual, perhaps in view of the fact that he intentionally wished to concentrate on melody here. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both extremely melodic players themselves. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MATKA JOANNA
ECM 1544 (Barcode: 731452398628) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. This is the first of the two albums Stanko recorded with this quartet. The album is dedicated to the Polish film director Jerzy KawalerowiczFind albums by this artist, whose film "Matka Joanna Od Aniolow" (1961) was a groundbreaking masterpiece of the Polish post-WWII cinema. The music was composed mostly by Stanko, but also co-composed by the quartet members and includes one composition by Oxley. This is one of the last albums, on which Stanko´s compositions are very sparse and the music is mostly freely improvised. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both greatly gifted players. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ GOODBYE
ECM 1904 (Barcode: 602498251737) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
This is a beautiful album by Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, one of the most important modern European Jazz musicians with an extensive recording legacy, which includes many absolute classic Jazz albums. Recorded with his trio with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, the music includes original composition by Stenson, and Motian, as well as standards and lesser known pieces like, one even by Classical composer Henry PurcellFind albums by this artist arranged by Jormin. This musical diversity reflects well Stenson´s ability to feel comfortable in any musical setting, always elegantly and with true virtuosity. The performances are stellar indeed and overall this is a perfect piano trio album, which is my favorite format. The album is an absolute must to all piano / piano trio lovers and serious Jazz connoisseurs.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ INDICUM
ECM 2233 (Barcode: 602527945750) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
This is a breathtakingly beautiful album by the veteran Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, one of the pillars of Scandinavian and European Jazz, recorded in his favorite classic piano trio format with his long-time collaborator bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and much younger upcoming drummer Jon FaltFind albums by this artist. Together they perform twelve pieces, three of which are credited to all the trio members, two are by Jormin and the rest come from many diverse sources, both from the Jazz idiom and outside, an eclecticism typical of Stenson´s recordings.
In many respects Stenson is an epitome of European Jazz, combining in his refined stylistic approach the elegance and sophistication of the European Culture at its best, which elevates the Jazz tradition to a new level. Reserved, even humble at times, delicate and minimalistic, Stenson spreads his magic with single touches of the keyboard, following the "more is less" aesthetics.
Of course a trio is only as good as the quality of all its members, which in this case is beyond reproach. Jormin is already recognized as one of the great Masters of the acoustic Bass and Falt by now earned quite a reputation as an intelligent, highly sensitive player. Together they create a kind of enchantment, which characterized only very few selected piano trios in Jazz history. Fans and followers of Stenson´s piano trio recordings are by now convinced, that he and his trios belong to the top echelon of artistic achievements and he is a fabulous gatekeeper of the exquisite piano trio legacy.
This music is very calm, reflective and somewhat reserved, and as such requires total attention and dedication in order to be fully appreciated. And yet in spite of its seemingly delicate structure, it cuts deeply into the listener´s emotional fabric, arising very strong reactions, which of course is a part of its magic. Although I love everything Stenson recorded so far, I developed a very special attachment towards this particular recording, as it touches my innermost strings. This is an absolute masterpiece and an essential ingredient of the beautiful Jazz spirit that we all love so much. A must!
| | Updated: 07/02/2016Posted: 07/02/2016 | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ VERY EARLY
DRAGON 304 (Barcode: 7391953003044) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1997
This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the third album by the great Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio format with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist. Originally released in 1987, this CD edition adds three bonus tracks not present on the LP. The album presents nine tracks, one of which is an original composition by Stenson and another by Jormin, and the rest are standards.
The music is absolutely delightful, classic Jazz piano trio setting and modern mainstream repertoire, emphasizing the talents of three Giant musicians. Stenson is one of the great European romantics, whose music can be followed on the impressive series of recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, starting with his debut album from 1971 and the latest one (at the time of writing) released in 2023. Stenson released only two albums as a leader outside of his ECM recordings, this one being one of them.
Jormin is one of my favorite Jazz bassist, a true virtuoso and a brilliantly sensitive player, with an impressive recording legacy both as a leader and member of groups led by Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist.
Carlsson, one of Sweden’s Jazz Godfathers, known to be the drummer of choice by many American Jazz musicians, who played often in Sweden on the 1960s and 1970s. He is also known to Polish Jazz followers as a member of the early groups led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist.
Overall, this is an excellent Jazz piano trio album, which shows the Swedish / European Jazz at its best, and is a delightful musical experience from start to finish. Piano trio buffs will be absolutely smitten by this music, especially if they were not previously exposed to the early years of Stenson. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/08/2023Posted: 03/08/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TORTO / TAYLOR / JORMIN ~ TRIANGOLI
ASTARTE 002 (Barcode: 8015948301951) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
This is a criminally little known album by the European Jazz trio, which comprises of Italian vocalist / composer / lyricist Diana TortoFind albums by this artist, British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist / composer Anders JorminFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven songs, two composed by Torto, who also contributed lyrics to four of the songs, three by Taylor, four by Jormin and the remaining two are b other composers.
The music is insanely beautiful, which is hardly surprising considering the presence of two sublime European instrumentalists and less know but highly talented vocalist, who seems to have no limit in her upper tonal range and is able to sing lyrics and vocalese with the same ease and elegance.
The music is highly melodic and mostly almost romantic, perfectly handled by the trio from one tune to the next, creating an uplifting musical continuity, which one never wants to end. Taylor’s delicate touches of the keyboard and Jormin’s beautiful and perfectly harmonious bass lines supply the perfect accompaniment to Torto’s vocal acrobatics, and together they are simply irresistible.
Considering the fact that almost all of the material is original, this album offers by far more excitement and aesthetic pleasures, than a recording of well-known standards, although all the compositions are certainly as good as any standard out there, which again is not surprising considering the level of composition abilities by Taylor and Jormin.
Overall, this is an instant classic, which truly deserves to be heard. Sadly, it seems to be completely obscure even to the most devoted Taylor fans out there. I wholeheartedly recommend looking for a copy, which are still floating around, as this is definitely too good to be forgotten. Great stuff!
| | Updated: 08/03/2023Posted: 08/03/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
|
