Record Reviews

GORDON BECK ~ NOT THE LAST WALTZ ART OF LIFE 1008 (Barcode: 804640100829) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 Released: 2004 Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist is one of the key figures in the history of British / European Jazz. His consistently excellent output, which now spans over four decades of activity, has always been a source of inspiration and a fountain of musical purity. The piano trio has always been Beck’s main vehicle for expressing his musical vision, starting with his early recordings as a leader in the late 1960s and continuing up to this very day. This album, recorded live at the Appleby Jazz Festival, captures his recent “French” trio with Bruno RousseletFind albums by this artist on bass and Philippe SoiratFind albums by this artist on drums. Obviously in high spirits, they fly through a set comprised mostly of Beck’s originals, with just a couple of standards. Beck seems to be completely unaffected by his age and his technical capabilities are in fool blossom. Aided by the virtuosity of the bass player and limitless energy of the drummer, Beck is able to fly all over the keyboard with ease and elegance, developing his inspired improvisations with their aid. The unity and interplay between the musicians is remarkable, regardless of the age difference between them. A bonus track, recorded live at a Parisian Jazz club, closes the album. The album is an instant classic as far as Jazz piano trios are concerned, and can be listened to repeatedly, always revealing new facets of Beck’s genius. A must for all Beck’s followers and piano trio enthusiasts.

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GORDON BECK ~ SEVEN STEPS TO HEAVEN ART OF LIFE 1018 (Barcode: 804640101826) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005 Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist continues to perform and record as if time stands still for him and his music. At the age of 70 his piano playing is as energetic and flawless as it has been throughout his glorious career. This live recording at a Parisian Jazz club, captures Beck with his regular “French” trio (Bruno RousseletFind albums by this artist on bass and Philippe SoiratFind albums by this artist on drums), expanded ad hoc to a quartet with the addition of saxophonist Pierrick PedronFind albums by this artist. They soar through a set of standards, as appropriate for a club date and a first meeting with a new member, which BTW is not evident at all, since they sound as if they had time to rehearse together – a result of obvious skill and professionalism. There is nothing groundbreaking presented here, just some first class modern jazz, done extremely well by four superb musicians. Of course Beck’s playing is never ordinary and his exceptional skills can be enjoyed to the fullest. This album should be enjoyable to a wide range of Jazz listeners, with its highly spirited performances and familiar material. Beck’s followers will of course love this stuff.

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