Record Reviews
15 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | MUHAL RICHARD ABRAMS ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE VOLUME 2
CAM JAZZ 1041 (Barcode: 8052405142504) ~ USA ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1975 - 1995 Released: 2016
This superb Box Set collects recordings by the legendary American keyboardist / composer / conductor Muhal Richard AbramsFind albums by this artist released on the Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label labels. It includes nine albums, four of which are duets: "SightsongFind albums with this title" with bassist Malachi FavorsFind albums by this artist, "Lifelong AmbitionsFind albums with this title" with violinist Leroy JenkinsFind albums by this artist, "DuetFind albums with this title" with pianist Amina Claudine MyersFind albums by this artist and finally "Duets And SolosFind albums with this title" with saxophonist Roscoe MitchellFind albums by this artist. The album "Shadowgraph, 5 (Sextet)Find albums with this title", released under the name of trombonist / composer George LewisFind albums by this artist and presenting music composed by him, features Abrams playing piano on two tracks. The remaining four albums: "1-OQA+19Find albums with this title", "Colors In Thirty-ThirdFind albums with this title", "Family TalkFind albums with this title" and "Song For AllFind albums with this title" present various ensembles led by Abrams, which include the crème de la crème of American improvisers of the period, including saxophonists Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, Henry ThreadgillFind albums by this artist and John PurcellFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Jack WalrathFind albums by this artist and Eddie AllenFind albums by this artist, bassists Dave HollandFind albums by this artist (well he was a Brit) and Brad JonesFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve McCallFind albums by this artist and Andrew CyrilleFind albums by this artist and numerous others. All the music on these last four albums was composed by Abrams and the music on the duo recording is, as expected, partly his and partly by his duet partners.
Abrams is best known as the founder of the original AACM in Chicago in 1965 and then the New York chapter of AACM after he moved there permanently in 1975. He was a prolific recording artist, with an impressive list of albums to his credit. He plays piano, synthesizer and conducts the ensembles. These recordings are all excellent examples of his work, which is a completely unique combination of Free Jazz, Improvised Music and Contemporary Classical music techniques. His music is deeply influenced by the Blues as well as the compositional approach of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, who was his model. In retrospect his work could be seen as a continuation of Ellington´s legacy into the realm of Avant-Garde Jazz.
The music is absolutely brilliant and fascinating and connoisseurs of Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde will find it obviously essential, but other less refined listeners might find it quite accessible, with just a minimal effort of attentive listening. This is definitely an important document of the American Free Jazz movement, which deserves to be preserved for posterity and which should serve as a source if inspiration to the young generation of contemporary Free Jazz artists.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 16/04/2020Posted: 16/04/2020 | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ CHARLIE PARKER PROJECT
HATOLOGY 612 (Barcode: 752156061229) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2004
This is a long overdue reissue of the legendary album by American musician / composer / bandleader Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, one of the most iconic figures of the late 20th Century Free Jazz and Avant-Garde music scene and probably the most important Jazz pioneer in the post John ColtraneFind albums by this artist era. The album captures a live recording of the Braxton´s sextet in Switzerland and Germany, with him playing saxophones and clarinet, accompanied by saxophonist Ari BrownFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Paul SmokerFind albums by this artist, pianist Misha MengelbergFind albums by this artist, bassist Joe FondaFind albums by this artist and drummers Han BenninkFind albums by this artist and Pheeroan AkLaffFind albums by this artist (each playing on one of the two CDs). The music is a loving tribute to Bee Bop and includes mostly compositions by the genre´s pioneer Charlie ParkerFind albums by this artist with three tunes by Dizzy GillespieFind albums by this artist and one each by Tadd DameronFind albums by this artist and Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. Braxton re-visits Bee Bop with respect and love, but of course applies his completely unique interpretation of the music, which is, as usual, completely breathtaking. The level of virtuosity in interplay is simply astounding and this album surely deserves an honorable place in any serious Free Jazz collection. The intercontinental meeting of improvising forces and talents works beautifully, soaring to previously undiscovered heights. This is an absolutely essential example of Free Jazz, for those who are connoisseurs of the genre, which is not to be missed, especially for the second time around.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ CREATIVE ORCHESTRA (KÖLN) 1978
HATOLOGY 644 (Barcode: 752156064428) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
This is a long overdue reissue of the legendary album by American musician / composer / bandleader Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, one of the most iconic figures of the late 20th Century Free Jazz and Avant-Garde music scene and probably the most important Jazz pioneer in the post John ColtraneFind albums by this artist era. The album captures a live concert, recorded in Germany (Braxton was always an icon in Europe, and hardly ever taken seriously at home), with Braxton conducting a huge orchestra performing his compositions. The orchestra includes some of the most important and celebrated Free Jazz players, such as trumpeters Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Leo SmithFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Vinny GoliaFind albums by this artist and Marty EhrlichFind albums by this artist, trombonists Ray AndersonFind albums by this artist and George LewisFind albums by this artist, pianist Marilyn CrispellFind albums by this artist, bassist John LindbergFind albums by this artist and many others. The sound and overall effect of the orchestra performing this music is simply magnificent, and leaves the listener completely dazed. The music just rolls on all over one´s mind, constantly entering new territory both sonically and rhythmically. People familiar with Braxton´s music need no encouragement to plunge into this masterpiece, and those less familiar should definitely try this one in particular, as it might prove to be more accessible. Definitely a masterpiece!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ PERFORMANCE (QUARTET) 1979
HATOLOGY 610 (Barcode: 752156061021) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2007
This is a long overdue reissue (actually 2nd reissue) of the legendary album by American musician / composer / bandleader Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, one of the most iconic figures of the late 20th Century Free Jazz and Avant-Garde music scene and probably the most important Jazz pioneer in the post John ColtraneFind albums by this artist era. The album captures a live recording of the Braxton´s quartet at the Willisau Jazz Festival in Switzerland, with him playing saxophones and clarinet, accompanied by trombonist Ray AndersonFind albums by this artist, bassist John LindbergFind albums by this artist and percussionist Thurman BarkerFind albums by this artist. The music includes seven original compositions by Braxton, performed continuously in two extended parts. The level of virtuosity in interplay is simply astounding and this album surely deserves an honorable place in any serious Free Jazz collection. The intercontinental meeting of improvising forces and talents works beautifully, soaring to previously undiscovered heights. This is an absolutely essential example of Free Jazz, for those who are connoisseurs of the genre, which is not to be missed, especially for the third time around.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ SEVEN COMPOSITIONS (TRIO) 1989
HATOLOGY 658 (Barcode: 752156065821) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2009
This is a long overdue reissue of the legendary album by American musician / composer / bandleader Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, one of the most iconic figures of the late 20th Century Free Jazz and Avant-Garde music scene and probably the most important Jazz pioneer in the post John ColtraneFind albums by this artist era. The album captures a recording of a trio, one of Braxton´s favorite settings, with him playing saxophones, clarinet and flute, accompanied by German bassist Adelhard RoidingerFind albums by this artist and legendary British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The music includes five original compositions by Braxton, one by Oxley and one standard. The level of virtuosity in interplay is simply astounding and this album surely deserves an honorable place in any serious Free Jazz collection. The intercontinental meeting of improvising forces and talents works beautifully, soaring to previously undiscovered heights. This is an absolutely essential example of Free Jazz, for those who are connoisseurs of the genre, which is not to be missed, especially for the second time around.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1012 (Barcode: 8052405140081) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 - 1994 Released: 2011
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary US reedman / composer Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Braxton needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that from the early days with AACMFind albums by this artist in Chicago he retained his position in the spearhead of modern music as one of its greatest pioneers, prophets and philosophers. His completely unique approach to playing and composing music has put his in a class of itself and his prolific recorded output is always a source of great musical joy. The musicians playing on these five albums include: drummer Max RoachFind albums by this artist, trombonist George LewisFind albums by this artist, bassist John LindbergFind albums by this artist, drummer Gerry HemingwayFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark DresserFind albums by this artist, pianist Mal WaldronFind albums by this artist and many others. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 05/05/2020Posted: | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON (+ DUKE ELLINGTON) ~ CONCEPT OF FREEDOM
HATOLOGY 614 (Barcode: 752156061427) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2005
This album presents the compositions by two of America´s most iconic Jazz composers: Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist and Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist. Although seemingly totally separated and different, the works of these two composers are reflections of their respective eras. Ellington symbolizes the sophistication of the Jazz Art Form at its peak; at least as far as Jazz composition is concerned, and marks the turning point of Jazz, when its musical qualities finally reached the level of complexity and sophistication of the Classical Music heritage. Braxton symbolizes the next giant step in the development of Jazz, when it finally freed itself from any preconceptions and limitations, concentrating on its intrinsic quality, i.e. improvisation. Side by side, these compositions can certainly compliment each other, especially when performed by an excellent quartet of European musicians, two of which have recorded Braxton´s music before under his supervision: Swiss trombonist Roland DahindenFind albums by this artist and pianist Hildegard KleebFind albums by this artist with Greek violinist Dimitris PolisoidisFind albums by this artist and Austrian electronic musician Robert HöldrichFind albums by this artist. The performances are virtuosic and the music, although difficult and demanding, offers besides the obvious challenges also many hidden treasures associated with contemporary Improvised Music. For serious listeners only!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Recommend To A Friend |
  | CIRCLE ~ PARIS-CONCERT
ECM 1018/19 (Barcode: 042284316323) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1991
Circle was a short-lived quartet formed by US pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist at the high peak of his activity in the field of Free Jazz and improvised music with three other outstanding and legendary musicians also active in the same field: saxophonist Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Barry AltschulFind albums by this artist. This live recording is the only document of the quartet´s performances and it is a remarkable piece of music in every respect. The music played on this album is a mixture of standards and original compositions by all the four musicians involved and presents a unique glimpse at the Free Jazz scene at the peek of its development. The performances are absolutely stunning from start to finish and the player´s virtuosity obvious at all times. Telepathic conversations, solos, duos, trios and the entire quartet playing chase each other constantly, creating an atmosphere of intellectual tension and anticipation. This is absolutely brilliant stuff, which has been one of my favorite albums for forty years now. A must to all Free Jazz listeners!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GIORGIO GASLINI ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON DISCHI DELLA QUERCIA
CAM JAZZ 5001 (Barcode: 8052405140708) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1985 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set collects all the recordings by legendary Italian pianist / composer / bandleader Giorgio GasliniFind albums by this artist, released on his own Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label label. The set includes eleven albums featuring various Gaslini´s ensembles (quartet, quintet, sextet and octet) as well as his duos with American musicians like Roswell RuddFind albums by this artist, Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist.
Gaslini (who died in 2014) was one of the pillars of modern Italian Jazz, recorded dozens of albums and led countless ensembles during his career that spanned almost seven decades. In parallel to his Jazz activities he also composed music for cinema and contemporary Classical Music. He was one of the few Italian musicians known outside of his country and a tireless and prolific Jazz propagator in his country. In retrospect he is one of the Godfathers of European Jazz.
Gaslini played modern Jazz, which often stood on the verge of Free, always challenging the boundaries of the genre, as can be heard well on the albums included here. His ensembles were always a breeding ground for generations of young Italian musicians, like the ones found here: Gianni BedoriFind albums by this artist, Gianluigi TrovesiFind albums by this artist, Daniele Di GregorioFind albums by this artist and many others.
This music is an absolute must to all European Jazz enthusiasts, and the fact that it is available again is pure joy. Gaslini was a genius composer and pianist and his legacy must be preserved and studied by the new generation of Jazz musicians.
Remastered, mini-sleeved and with a great bargain price – this Box Set is an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 12/04/2020Posted: | CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOËLLE LÉANDRE ~ LIVE IN ISRAEL
KADIMA COLLECTIVE 17 (Barcode: 634479851179) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
French bassist Joëlle LéandreFind albums by this artist is one of a relatively few women pioneers on the Free Jazz and Improvised Music scene to earn a legendary status. Her activities on the scene have brought her in contact with the most distinguished performers, both European and American (such as Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist). She also worked in the field of contemporary Classical music with composers like Pierre BoulezFind albums by this artist and John CageFind albums by this artist. In 2007 Joëlle visited Israel and her live performances there have been recorded and are now issued on this double CD. The first CD includes 7 solo bass (and voice) performances and the second CD offers her playing in duo, trio and sextet settings with the top Israeli Improvised Music artists: Jean Claude JonesFind albums by this artist – bass, Steve HorensteinFind albums by this artist – baritone and soprano sax, flute, Sameer MakhoulFind albums by this artist – oud and voice, Assif TsaharFind albums by this artist – bass clarinet, Daniel SaridFind albums by this artist – piano, Hagai FershtmanFind albums by this artist – drums, Albert BegerFind albums by this artist – tenor sax and Ariel ShiboletFind albums by this artist – soprano sax. These wonderful musical moments are some of the highlights of the Improvised Music created in Israel, a small but quite lively scene led by Jones and consistently documented on his Kadima CollectiveFind albums on this label label. Connoisseurs of the genre will be quite delighted to hear this stuff.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOËLLE LÉANDRE / BARRE PHILLIPS ~ A L`IMPROVISTE
KADIMA COLLECTIVE 16 (Barcode: 634479752964) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
French bassist Joëlle LéandreFind albums by this artist is one of a relatively few women pioneers on the Free Jazz and Improvised Music scene to earn a legendary status. Her activities on the scene have brought her in contact with the most distinguished performers, both European and American (such as Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist). She also worked in the field of contemporary Classical music with composers like Pierre BoulezFind albums by this artist and John CageFind albums by this artist. Her partner for this recording is no other than another bass virtuoso – American born (but living in France since the early 1970s) Barre PhillipsFind albums by this artist, one of the most esteemed Free Jazz and Improvised Music players, with a career stretching back to the 1960s and cooperation with such great musicians like John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Derek BaileyFind albums by this artist, Paul BleyFind albums by this artist and many others. His ECM album with Dave HollandFind albums by this artist “Music From Two BassesFind albums with this title” was the first bass duo recording (1971), which brings us to this superb duet. Excellently recorded by the French Radio, the music is a completely improvised set, full of beautiful conversations and exchanges between the players, who display almost telepathic contact. Full of deep feeling and lyricism, but always inspired by the fire and passion for the music, the duo performs some incredible music, which although demanding, is most enjoyable. It is a great example of how Improvised Music can stay being Avant-Garde in nature, but become mature and technically flawless. Highly recommended to lovers of acoustic bass and challenging musical experiences.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD-R 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAX ROACH ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1038 (Barcode: 8052405141859) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 - 1986 Released: 2015
This superb Box Set collects recordings by the iconic American drummer / composer Max RoachFind albums by this artist released on the Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label labels. It includes five (one double) albums, which present Roach as a versatile performer and composer, among them the two legendary duo albums, one with reedman Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist ("Birth And RebirthFind albums with this title") and the other with pianist Cecil TaylorFind albums by this artist ("Historic ConcertsFind albums with this title"), which to this day are considered paradigmatic as far as the "Art Of The Duo" and Free Jazz / Improvised Music are concerned. Another album finds him playing with only a string quartet, creating a brilliant Jazz-Classical Fusion, or playing solo drums ("SurvivorsFind albums with this title"). Yet another album finds him as a member of the all-percussion tentet M`BoomFind albums by this artist ("CollageFind albums with this title") and the last one finds him leading his double quartet with trumpeter Cecil BridgewaterFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Odean PopeFind albums by this artist and bassist Tyrone BrownFind albums by this artist and a string quartet ("Bright MomentsFind albums with this title"). Almost all the music was composed or co-composed by Roach.
Together these albums present some of the most innovative, adventurous and groundbreaking music created between late 1970s and mid 1980s and are a wonderful document of the genius of Max Roach, who was not only a virtuosic drummer but most importantly a complete musician and a visionary.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 11/04/2020Posted: 11/04/2020 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SKEREBOTTE FATTA ~ APPAZ
FOR TUNE 0152 (Barcode: 5906395808670) ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is the second album by Polish Free Jazz duo Skerebotte FattaFind albums by this artist, which comprises of saxophonist Jan MalkowskiFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Jan SkerebotteFind albums by this artist) and drummer Dominik MokrzewskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions credited to the duo members. As the album’s title and the track titles (when read in reverse) suggest, the album is a tribute to icons of creative music, as diverse as Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist, Albert AylerFind albums by this artist or Han BenninkFind albums by this artist.
Both Malkowski and Mokrzewski already participated in several Polish Free Jazz / Improvised Music recordings, including the RdzaFind albums by this artist ensemble and the Infant Joy QuintetFind albums by this artist, the latter also released on the For TuneFind albums on this label label.
The rather unusual saxophone – drums duo obviously immediately prompts for comparisons to similar recordings on the world scale, but honestly it’s hardly relevant to compare these relatively young musicians with world-class veterans like Max RoachFind albums by this artist / Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist or John ColtraneFind albums by this artist / Rashied AliFind albums by this artist. It’s better to keep things in proportion.
The duo members display an obvious rapport and excellent partnership, while building their performances, usually driving them to an explosive crescendo. Both also display excellent technique and evident understanding of the Improvised Music idiom. As a result, the music they create offers honest effort and inventive excitement, which are perhaps more appropriate for a live performance than a studio recording, but that is just a mere observation.
The problem with Improvised Music is always its long-term musical value, which faces the obvious conflict between spontaneous / momentary creation and its lasting significance. In plain words, will a potential listener return to listen to this music ever again? In times when listeners are constantly bombarded with an endless flow of new releases and the opportunity to discover older recordings made available, the chances of Improvised Music recordings become ever slimmer, unless they are truly unique and everlasting. As wonderful as the Polish Jazz scene has become in the last two decades, Improvised Music is unfortunately not one of its fortes.
Overall, this is an ambitious and generally successful Free Jazz / Improvised Music duo recording, with a lot of passion and technique involved. For lovers of the genre, it is certainly a worthy excursion into the Polish flavor of the idiom.
| | Updated: 25/09/2021Posted: 25/09/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAL WALDRON ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE VOLUME 2
CAM JAZZ 1043 (Barcode: 8052405142528) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 - 2000 Released: 2016
This superb Box Set collects recordings by the American pianist / composer Mal WaldronFind albums by this artist on the Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label labels. It is the second such collection, this time dedicated to solo, duo, trio and quartet recordings, following the previous Box Set with quintet recordings. It includes eleven albums: "UpdateFind albums with this title" is a piano solo, "Sempre AmoreFind albums with this title" (*) and "CommuniqueFind albums with this title" (*) are duets with saxophonist Steve LacyFind albums by this artist, "DedicationFind albums with this title" and "Remembering MalFind albums with this title" are duets with bassist David FriesenFind albums by this artist, "Riding A ZephyrFind albums with this title" is a duet with vocalist Judi SilvanoFind albums by this artist, "Up And DownFind albums with this title" with saxophonist Chico FreemanFind albums by this artist, German bassist Ricky KnauerFind albums by this artist and Italian vocalist Tiziana GhiglioniFind albums by this artist (on two tracks only), "Sometimes I`m BlueFind albums with this title" with vocalist Kim ParkerFind albums by this artist, Swiss bassist Isla EckingerFind albums by this artist and drummer Ed ThigpenFind albums by this artist, "Our Colline`s A TreasureFind albums with this title" with bassist Leonard JonesFind albums by this artist and drummer Sangoma EverettFind albums by this artist, "I`ll Be AroundFind albums with this title" with Ghiglioni and Italian trumpeter Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist and finally "Six Monk`s Compositions (1987)Find albums with this title" (*) with saxophonist Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, bassist Bluell NeidlingerFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill OsborneFind albums by this artist. Most of the music is by Waldron, except for the album dedicated to the music of the great composer Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, and of course some standards.
Waldron is considered as one of the most influential and prominent American Jazz personalities and a great master of the piano. He started his career as a Bebop player but moved later also into the Avant-Garde idiom. He was also one of the first American Jazz musicians who discovered European Jazz and understood its importance. He moved to Europe in the mid-1960s, where he spent the rest of his life. He left a most impressive recorded legacy of well over a hundred albums.
The music is absolutely timeless, and offers a perfect glance at Waldron´s diversity as a composer and player. It is also a unique document of European Jazz, as most of his albums involved European musicians playing side by side with their Americans partners. For serious Jazz connoisseurs this Box Set is a pure delight and an absolute must!
The albums marked with (*) were also included in other Box Sets of this series.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 20/05/2020Posted: 20/05/2020 | CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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