Record Reviews

EYRAN KATSENELENBOGEN ~ 88 FINGERS EYRAN 9008 (Barcode: 663330900824) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 - 2007 Released: 2009 Every new album by Israeli (resident in US) pianist Eyran KatsenelenbogenFind albums by this artist feels to me like a birthday of a new grandchild… after all Eyran started his illustrious career by recording two albums on my Jazzis label, before he achieved his international fame and recognition. Today critics compare Eyran´s work to such outstanding Jazz pianists like Art TatumFind albums by this artist and Oscar PetersonFind albums by this artist, but the seeds of his genius were evident already then, when he was taking his first steps towards greatness. Eyran was always an exceptional musician. Both his technical proficiency but even more so his incredible feel for the Jazz improvisation turn him into a unique phenomenon among thousands of good piano players around the world. Talent can not be measured of course and the appreciation of art is a completely subjective experience. But when a talent, such as the one Eyran is blessed with, is developing consistently (this is Eyran´s 10th album), one can take for granted the fact that every new recording he produces will reveal new layers of his great gift. This new album does that again, with Eyran choosing as the base for his solo piano improvisations themes by Classical composers, like Modest MussorgskyFind albums by this artist and Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, expanding his usual choice of Jazz standards and Israeli contemporary music. It is of course impossible to convey in words the beauty of the music and the feelings it inspires, listening to it is the only way to plunge into its magic. I could ramble on about the music, but honestly, just get a copy, put it on, close your eyes and let the music take you wherever it might take you. Eyran is a master of soul exploration; therefore no soul can stay indifferent under his spell.

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EYRAN KATSENELENBOGEN ~ SOLOTUDE EYRAN 9004 ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz This is a deeply emotional album for me. Of course in this case I can hardly be objective (but who gives a damn about objectivity when music is concerned), as I “discovered” Eyran almost 20 years ago when I released his debut album on my label (“Jazzonettes” on Jazzis Records). Eyran left Israel to settle in cold and dreary Boston, first to study and then to teach and perform music, and what a performer he is! In time he lost none of his juvenile spontaneity and innocence, but acquired a refined technique and a mature approach to the piano. His choice of recording music exclusively for solo piano could have proven disastrous for his career, being obviously the most intricate and precarious form of creating jazz – one on one with the instrument. Fortunately for Eyran (and all of us – his devoted listeners) he stood up to the challenge with bravery and flare and in my (not so) humble opinion reached the rank of the absolute top of his vocation. This beautiful album serves as a wonderful proof of his immense talent. On this album Eyran chooses to interpret 17 well known jazz standards (rather than play his own music). This could be a double-edged challenge, as virtually all the greatest piano players in the history of jazz have already performed all of those tunes. Nevertheless Eyran’s approach and vision manage to create new and undisclosed layers of musical delight based on the originals. He dares to play around with tempo, intonation and even combines a few of the melodies into a new melodic identity. Needless to say his performances are technically brilliant and flawless and his imagination boundless. He often plays as if there’s no tomorrow and the only negative thing I can say about this album is that it ended all much too soon for me – I just wanted more and more of this. Hopefully more will indeed follow suit on another album. “Rani” my friend – you make me proud. Bless you for the pleasures you bestow upon us with your magic fingers!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend