Record Reviews

JOACHIM KUHN ~ ALLEGRO VIVACE ACT 9750 (Barcode: 614427975027) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 Released: 2005 This is a solo piano album by veteran German Jazz pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, one of the great pioneers of modern European Jazz and one of my favorite musicians since decades. On the album Kuhn plays his interpretations of Classical music by Francois CouperinFind albums by this artist, Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist and Wolfgang Amadeus MozartFind albums by this artist, classic Jazz music by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist and finally his original compositions, all with the same passion and unique approach to the instrument. The music was recorded during one studio session and offers a superb sound quality. For many of Kuhn´s fans this album might come as a surprise, as it presents him in one of his calmest and most introvert moments of his career, gently stroking the keyboard, as if hesitating before making his next move, in complete contrast to the usual energetic and almost hyperactive self. As the result of this unique approach the listener is exposed to the contemplative side of Joachim Kuhn, which is a revelation. Obviously Kuhn treats the Classical pieces with a dose of liberty and perspective, which turns out to be way more interesting than a note for note treatment, which would only prove his technical ability to play Classical scores, rather than his ability to understand and feel the music, turning it into his very own on the fly. There is certain amount of frivolity and humor involved of course, which is truly a great fun. His treatment of the Jazz pieces are much closer to what Kuhn is know for, but of course his enormous sensitivity turns that music into a fountain of emotions sprinkling European Jazz aesthetics. Kuhn transforms the Jazz tunes into wonderful mini piano suites, which are superb examples of his ability to cross genres with ease and elegance. Obviously the last part of the album, where Kuhn plays his own music, is the absolute pinnacle, as nothing is better than Kuhn playing Kuhn. Limited only by his own imagination Kuhn stretches out his wings and soars to the sky lifted by his pieces. His virtuosity and improvisational powers come to full bloom here and the concentration of energy and emotion are truly electrifying. Overall this is a beautiful solo piano album, which all connoisseurs of this particular genre should try and get a copy of, and of course cherish. Although Kuhn is a very prolific artist, this is definitely one of his most intriguing recordings and as such is highly recommended.

Updated: 13/11/2016Posted: 13/11/2016

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