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  | DIMITRIS KALANTZIS ~ MANO`S
VERVE 6025277648016 (Barcode: 602527764801) ~ GREECE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011
This is an insanely beautiful album by Greek Jazz pianist Dimitris KalantzisFind albums by this artist and his quintet, with saxophonist Takis PaterelisFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Andreas PolyzogopoulosFind albums by this artist, bassist George GeorgiadisFind albums by this artist and drummer Alexandros-Drakos KtistakisFind albums by this artist. The quintet is accompanied by the Athens CamerataFind albums by this artist string orchestra conducted by Miltos LogiadisFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the album is a Jazz tribute to the great Greek composer Manos HadjidakisFind albums by this artist and all the nine tracks are composed by him.
Hadjidakis needs no introduction of course, and his enormous body of work is an absolutely essential part of European culture, spanning the entire spectrum of music from popular, cinema, folklore and Classical music. His music received many interpretations in Rock, like the famous “ReflectionsFind albums with this title” album by the New York Rock & Roll EnsembleFind albums by this artist, but this is one of the very few Jazz projects covering his music.
The quintet’s treatment of Hadjidakis’ music is close to the original melodic contents, but allows the individual music to solo extensively. The string arrangements are subtle and atmospheric, emphasizing the lyrical depth of the compositions, and cleverly shunning any kitschy accents, which is highly commendable. This album is a wonderful example of good taste, perfect balance between its source and the Jazzy interpretation, excellent sound quality and just heartbreakingly beautiful music. I hope more Greek Jazz musicians would pay tribute to their National music hero.
Overall, this is a perfect album in every respect, which offers excellent music, brilliant arrangements, superb performances and a general feel of Cultural respect to one’s roots. I picked this jewel accidentally, while browsing the Greek Jazz section in a second hand music store in Athens old town, which had a great selection of stuff – love Athens!
| | Updated: 26/07/2025Posted: 15/07/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
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