Record Reviews

ORJAN HULTEN / ORION ~ LIBERIA BALLAD ARTOGRUSH 013 (Barcode: 5902693142690) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020 This is the fifth album by Swedish saxophonist / composer Orjan HultenFind albums by this artist and his OrionFind albums by this artist quartet, which also includes pianist Torbjorn GulzFind albums by this artist, bassist Filip AugustsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter DanemoFind albums by this artist. Liberian vocalist Ernie BruceFind albums by this artist guest on the album and contributed the lyrics of the songs he performs. The album presents nine original compositions, five by Gulz, and two each by Hulten and Bruce. The album was recorded following the visit by the quartet in Liberia and meeting Bruce there. The music is obviously influenced to some degree by African motifs, but continues the path established by the earlier recordings of modern European Jazz, based on solid melodic themes, which serve as basis for the improvisations. The vocals are a new element and bring the music somewhat closer to the tradition, but do not change the quartet´s modus operandi of basic aesthetics dramatically. All four instrumentalists are experienced players and their performances are, as expected, perfect for the occasion. Both Hulten and Gulz offer superb soloing and the rhythm section drives the music forward with grace and effectiveness, also adding solo parts. The vocals are in a way less professional, but charming in their natural way and perfectly acceptable. The lengthy suite, which combines free improvisation and narration, and later develops into a blues, is very original and is one of the most interesting moments on the album. Overall this is an excellent album, which offers a genuine Jazz experience full of heartfelt musical statements, which should keep every Jazz connoisseur perfectly happy. As usual, wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 25/05/2020Posted: 25/05/2020

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