Record Reviews
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  | JOHN ABERCROMBIE ~ GATEWAY
ECM 1061 (Barcode: 602517762121) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
US guitarist / composer John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist emerged as one of the most formidable forces in Fusion in the late 1960s / early 1970s. By the time he signed with the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label his musical horizons expanded tremendously and he started experimenting with music outside the relatively limited scope of Fusion. This trio recording with British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and US drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is a great example of this metamorphosis. Abercrombie still uses Fusion phrases and voicing, but the format is much more free and exploratory. The music was composed mostly by Holland (four of the six tracks on this album), who would become one of the greatest modern Jazz composers in addition to his virtuoso bass playing. DeJohnette composed one of the tracks and co-composed the remaining one with Abercrombie. The performances are of course stellar and the album remains an important milestone of adventurous Fusion, similar to John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title". Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN ABERCROMBIE ~ TIMELESS
ECM 1047 (Barcode: 042282911421) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2000
This is the debut album for the ECMFind albums on this label label by US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and his second release as a leader. With keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, this is a perfect early Fusion ensemble and the album was recorded at the epicenter (chronologically) of the big Fusion explosion, but it is much more focused and artistic than most of the stuff recorded at the time. In fact although the spirit of Fusion floats in the air, the album wanders all over the place, often touching even Free Jazz. These musicians are of course Masters of the trade and everything they do is just perfect, which holds true now, three and a half decades later. In retrospect this is one of the true classic Fusion recordings and not much done in the years that followed surpassed it, or even got to the same level. A classic indeed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Delightful; as Adam says, many different styles, but Hammer at all times keeps his restraint, matching Abercrombie´s style and not playing as if he was duelling with Jeff Beck! Lovely subtle stuff from Jack DeJohnette as well.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GERI ALLEN ~ THE LIFE OF A SONG
TELARC 83598 (Barcode: 089408359828) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2004
This is one of those Jazz albums that have everything I love to have on a Jazz album: A brilliant female pianist and composer (Geri AllenFind albums by this artist), a divine rhythm section (Dave HollandFind albums by this artist - bass and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist – drums), a piano trio (my favorite Jazz format) and a superb audiophile sound quality (TelarcFind albums on this label DSD). Add to this the brilliant performances by the musicians, superb compositions, intricate polyrhythmic background and completely original treatment of standards and you have a formula for a perfect Jazz albums that holds surprises and pleasures for repeated listening sessions. The album includes eight Allen originals and three standards. On the last track, which is a long suite, the trio is transformed into a sextet with the addition of three horns. It’s no wander that Geri Allen is considered one of the finest pianist (and musicians in general) on the contemporary scene – this album proves how well deserved this appreciation is. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Audiophile Recommend To A Friend |
  | DEWA BUDJANA ~ ZENTUARY
FAVORED NATIONS 2880 (Barcode: 6908972880160) ~ INDONESIA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is the tenth album by Indonesian guitarist / composer Dewa BudjanaFind albums by this artist, this time a double CD effort, recorded with a stellar cast consisting of bassist / Chapman Stick player Tony LevinFind albums by this artist, drummer / keyboardist Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist and drummer / pianist Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. Several guest artists and the Czech Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist appear on selected tracks. Each of the two CDs presents six original compositions, all but one composed by Budjana.
The music is a diverse collection of musical influences, which amalgamates Jazz, Fusion and World Music. Melody based, the individual compositions serve basically as vehicles for the lengthy improvisations and solo parts, which are the focus of this album. The melodic substance is somewhat limited emotionally throughout the album´s duration, quite melancholic and gloomy, with hints of Balinese music, which creates an atmosphere of slow movement and even heaviness, which is overall strengthened by the intensive instrumental multilayered presence; definitely not an easy listening experience.
The individual contributions are of course stellar, as expected. Budjana plays some tasty guitar licks and his cohorts support him amicably, all they way through. Both Husband and DeJohnette contribute forceful rhythmic pulsations, Levin takes case of the bottom sounds and Husband as usual creates layers of wonderful keyboard sounds, which keep this complex music wonderfully together. The sax and vocal contributions by the guest are nice ornamentations.
Overall this is a very good Jazz-Rock-World Fusion effort, which is definitely worth investigation. For Fusion and Guitar fans this is heaven on earth of course. Personally I´d prefer a concise one CD version of this music, as the length does not contribute favorably in this case as far as I am concerned. But of course this is not up to me and Budjana surely knows what he is doing.
| | Updated: 03/03/2017Posted: 02/03/2017 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ BITCHES BREW (40TH ANNIVERSARY LEGACY EDITION)
COLUMBIA 775150 (Barcode: 886977515026) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2010
Almost every music lover on this planet is aware of the fact that this is a monumental piece of music, one of the pillars of modern Jazz Art Form and way beyond. I have lived with this music for 40 years now, since the day it was first released and I opened the gatefold double LP to place the vinyl on my record player, starting a musical journey that would last a lifetime. Now, while playing this new edition of the album, I feel the same kind of excitement and elation that always accompanies me when this music is playing. In the years that passed I´ve written extensively about Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and the "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" album, so I won´t repeat myself. Suffice to say, that for me this is a masterpiece of extraordinary proportions, which gets better with time. I´d like however, to expand on the subject of how this edition compliments "The Complete Bitches Brew SessionsFind albums with this title" Box Set, making it clear that having just one of these two editions is simply not enough. First and foremost, this edition includes the version of the album as originally released on the double LP set 40 years ago. This particular version was elaborately edited, spliced, mixed and cooked by producer Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist, which was often dramatically different from the music actually recorded in the studio by the musicians. Regardless of the fact if one likes or agrees to what Macero did with the music, this is what the world knew as "Bitches Brew" until the appearance of the Box Set. The Box Set does not include any of these particular collages and therefore they are parallel, but far from identical. In addition, this edition includes six previously unreleased pieces of music; the first two being alternate takes from the actual sessions not included in the Box Set (which makes the "complete" part of the Box Set´s title redundant) and the other four being single edits from the album (previously unreleased on CD) – yes ColumbiaFind albums on this label did make singles for the radio from this album – imagine that! If all that is not enough, this set also includes a DVD with the Miles Davis quintet (Miles, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist) filmed in Copenhagen in November 1969 shortly after this prophetic music was recorded, which alone is worth the price of the entire set. So here we have it – another essential piece of recorded history that everybody simply has to have.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | 2CD+DVD 3 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ LIVE IN EUROPE 1969: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.2
COLUMBIA 887254185321 (Barcode: 887254185321) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2013
Although it never reached the acclaimed status of the first and second legendary Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintets, this was in fact the third quintet, with saxophonists Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist being the only link to the previous group and pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist being the "new boys on the block". Unfortunately, in contrasts to its importance as the interim vehicle, which served Miles during the period of his most radical transformation, this quintet never recorded in the studio, leaving behind only live recordings, most of which were never previously released and appear officially here for the first time.
After all this was the group that Miles toured with in 1969, after completing the seminal "In A Silent WayFind albums with this title" album and while he was recording the world-shattering "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" tour de force. Shorter, Corea and Holland played on the former album and Shorter, Corea, Holland and DeJohnette played on the latter, so the links are obvious. The material herein presents two live appearances separated by a period of mere four months (July 1969 – November 1969), but musically the gap is enormous, with the earlier recording still anchored in the "In A Silent Way" mood, while the later are all "Bitches Brew" and beyond.
Miles cognoscenti will find here music, which is the closest to Free Jazz he ever played. Miles was never really part of the Free Jazz movement, going in different direction, which was his very own. But this quintet and Corea especially, were at the heart of the Free scene at the time. Corea used Holland and DeJohnette on his sublime "The Complete `Is` SessionsFind albums with this title" album, which was recorded at that exact time, and he and Holland will later form the A.R.C.Find albums by this artist trio and CircleFind albums by this artist quartet, both seminal Free Jazz ensembles. Miles gives Corea and the rest of the quintet space to stretch out, playing his parts splendidly as ever, even though it´s not exactly his "natural habitat", thus portraying him quite differently from the "iron fist" dominant leader status he was usually considered to be.
The music is sublime from start to end, completely untouched by time and filling a large gap in the recorded history of Miles Davis and his music, at its most pivotal period. The fact that we had to wait so long for this stuff to be released is beyond criminal, but as usual "better late than never" is the only solace. There are some slight sound imperfections, but considering this music was recorded live almost 45 years ago, this is completely meaningless. The DVD is sensational as well, both the audio and video contents, and constitutes a highly important document of the Miles Davis saga.
Of course this is an absolute must in any serious Miles Davis collection and hats off to ColumbiaFind albums on this label for keeping this legacy alive, even if the do it for the money. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 20/05/2018Posted: | 3CD+DVD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ MILES AT THE FILLMORE 1970: THE BOOTLEG SERIES VOL.3
COLUMBIA 887654338129 (Barcode: 887654338129) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2014
This is the 3rd installment of the "Bootleg Series" live recordings by American trumpeter / composer Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, released by ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records. The recordings in this set originate mainly from the performances at the Fillmore East by the Miles Davis septet during four consecutive nights between June 17 and June 20, 1970. Three additional tracks originate from an earlier Miles Davis sextet performance at Fillmore West on April 11, 1970, recorded just a few days after Columbia released "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" (on March 30, 1970), which changed the face of music forever.
The sextet and septet were the post-"Bitches Brew" working groups, which featured saxophonist Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist (in the septet only, first double keyboards group by Miles), bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist. Except for Grossman and Jarrett all the other musicians took part in the recording of "Bitches Brew".
The music is of course a direct follow up to the studio versions of these tunes and Davis makes no attempt to "ease up" or compromise the music and its intrinsic freedom and improvised nature, even though the Fillmore venues were at the time the Mecca and Medina of American Rock. Davis considered his music to be an integral part of the revolutionary wave of music created at the time, typically ignoring ridiculous genre divisions, and the audiences seem to share his attitude wholeheartedly.
Live recordings are always the best opportunity to check out the authenticity and integrity of musicians and these recordings are a great proof of the fact that the "Bitches Brew" magic really happened in the studio as a result of superb playing and visionary leadership, rather than post-production work by Teo MaceroFind albums by this artist. The overall level of the individual performances is of course incredibly high and inspired, full of intensity and virtuosic mastery.
Although the Fillmore West tracks suffer from some sound quality plight, this music is an absolute must to all Miles Davis fans. The four consecutive nights at Fillmore East present a similar set list, but the actual performances are so dramatically different that listening to them opens up a whole new way of comprehending the music of Miles Davis and understanding the concept of Jazz and its unique nature.
Four and a half decades later this music still kicks ass as only very few other sound sculptures are able to, and hopefully will continue to do so in the decades to come. Spearheading the Golden Decade, Miles Davis justifies his Godly status in full.
| | Updated: 31/12/2024Posted: | CD 4 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE CELLAR DOOR SESSIONS 1970
COLUMBIA 93614 (Barcode: 827969361429) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
It would be incredibly presumptuous to write any kind of serious musical review of this music in a limited format, so I’ll only stick to the very basics here. The music contained in this set was recorded live on December 16-19, 1970 in a dinky little Washington, DC club called “Cellar Door”. Why would Miles play in such a venue at all remained a mystery (one of many around Miles’ life and work), as he could easily sell out any concert hall in the US. In retrospect it now becomes obvious that Miles simply wanted a sort of limited exposure live recording opportunity to record his new band, which was yet another change of direction in his career. Following the groundbreaking Bitches BrewFind albums with this title and Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title sessions, Miles decided to strip down his ensemble to the bare minimum and concentrate on a more rock / funk oriented sound. Miles was always intensely attentive to everything that was happening around him musically and his frequent performances at the Fillmore venues exposed him to scores of rock bands, which enjoyed immense popularity with the crowds. Miles concluded that he could easily play music, which would be as acceptable to the rock crowds as the rock music they were accustomed to, hell he could do it better! This sessions prove that he was absolutely right. For the new group Miles kept Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on electric piano, since Keith was already at ease with rock oriented material he played in his earlier stints. He also kept Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums, as John could rock better that any of the rock drummers around, considering his immense talent and technique. The saxophone spot was taken by Gary BartzFind albums by this artist (Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist was having serious drug-related problems), a young and extremely capable player who sounded remarkably similar to John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, but felt comfortable with the funky rhythms. The biggest change (and surprise) was the bass spot, which Miles assigned to the tender MotownFind albums on this label (yes – the Jackson 5Find albums by this artist!) electric bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist. Henderson’s pulsating funky rhythms set the essence for these sessions, not only serving as a rock solid foundation upon which the musicians are free to develop their improvisations, but also being the glue that keeps the music together. The quintet of Davis, Bartz, Jarrett, Henderson and DeJohnette play on all the 6 CDs in this set. The Brazilian percussionist Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist joins the quintet on the 3rd day (expanding it to a sextet) and is heard on 4 CDs. Moreira’s contribution to Miles’ music deserve a chapter in itself - in these sessions he skillfully adds color and polyrhythmic accents, always with taste and precision. On the last day the group is extended to a septet with John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist joining in on his fire blazing electric guitar, like there is no tomorrow. This truly turns the whole ensemble into the “greatest fucking rock band you ever heard”, to quote Miles. McLaughlin is in his usual great form, which means he is just way ahead of anything else done at that time on guitar. What about Miles himself? Let me just say that he plays some of his best notes ever on these sessions, full of vigor, passion and inspiration. What else can I say here? This music is beyond comparison, beyond criticism, beyond all the bullshit people say about music… If you didn’t hear it you simply don’t exist - musically that is ;).
| | | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE JACK JOHNSON SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 86359 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970
This is the 7th chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between February and June 1970 this monumental document defines “Electric Jazz” – anything recorded since, be it Jazz, Rock or Fusion, has its roots here. These almost five hours of music remained mostly unreleased till this set was issued, as the original A Tribute To Jack JohnsonFind albums with this title album contained less than 10 % of the music included herein. Although a few other “cooked” albums included snippets of this music (Live-EvilFind albums with this title, Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, DirectionsFind albums with this title and Big FunFind albums with this title) they were never available in their full form. By the time this material was recorded Miles’ approach to creating music changed dramatically: he was more of a captain giving the crew a general direction as to where he wanted to go, ratter that a navigator concerned with the exact details as to the course taken. An enormous amount of freedom was granted to the stellar collection of participants (Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist – keyboards, Steve GrossmanFind albums by this artist, Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist, Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist – saxes, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist – bass, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Sonny SharrockFind albums by this artist – guitar, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Gene PerlaFind albums by this artist – drums, Airto MoreiraFind albums by this artist, Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist – percussion) and for the first time Miles promoted John McLaughlin to be the primary soloist, much more dominant than his trumpet. McLaughlin of course was up to the job and presents some incredible guitar playing, firmly establishing the electric guitar as the leading instrument in instrumental music for the years to come. His fearless ventures into the uncharted territory of Fusion and even Rock would become a beacon for generations of guitar players, a source of inspiration and a vital learning tool. The unrestrained, almost jam-like atmosphere of the sessions inspired all the participants to search for the best they could achieve and the resulting music is simply phenomenal. This is visionary and groundbreaking, Promethean and pioneering musical creation, an absolute must to any Jazz fan that takes his music seriously..
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILES DAVIS ~ THE COMPLETE ON THE CORNER SESSIONS
COLUMBIA 06239 (Barcode: 886970623926) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1975 Released: 2007
This is the 8th (and apparently the last) chapter in the ColumbiaFind albums on this label’s epic series of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist Box Sets, which is a monumental reissue project of recordings by the most important Jazz musician of the 20th century. Recorded between March 1972 and May 1975 this the music includes everything Miles recorded for Columbia before his 5 years of retirement from recording due to health problems, before resuming his career in 1980. The inventory is pretty amazing: 4 years, 16 sessions, 21 musicians and over 6 hours of groundbreaking music, which although rarely given credit for it, changed to face of music for years to come. Incorporating Funk, Fusion, World Music, Rock, Soul and of course Jazz, this music re-defined the basic conceptions of the musical universe. Anything recorded later on this planed could be traced back to some extent to these sounds, be it Hip-Hop, Rock, Electronic and Ambient Music, House, and Dance, including of course contemporary Jazz and Fusion. The music is completely groove oriented, with very little (and often without) melody, with a loose and completely atmospheric jamming over a repetitive and hypnotic rhythms, created masterly by bassist Michael HendersonFind albums by this artist, continuing the direction initiated on The Cellar Door Sessions 1970Find albums with this title. Miles on trumpet, Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, Carlos GarnettFind albums by this artist and Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist on saxes, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on keyboards, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, Reggie LucasFind albums by this artist and Pete CoseyFind albums by this artist on guitars, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and Al FosterFind albums by this artist on drums and quite a few other players contribute to this heavenly music, under the Master’s spiritual leadership. The music included here appeared in various edited forms on the albums: On The CornerFind albums with this title, Big FunFind albums with this title and Get Up With ItFind albums with this title, but most is heard here for the first time. It is almost impossible to describe how far out and pioneering this music is. It presents not only a completely new sound and approach to performing music, but also a new way to create music as a flow of the subconscious creative process. Over 30 years after it was recorded, it still sounds revolutionary and poignant, as it undoubtedly will continue to sound in the days to come. I can’t imagine anybody who calls himself a music lover not to own this music and listen to it periodically to recharge his or her emotional batteries. Beyond essential!
A special note to collectors:
The initial release of all the Miles Davis Box Sets in this reissue series is packaged in an exquisite metal-bound (except chapter 5 which is cardboard-bound) frame housed in a hard cardboard CD-sized slipcase (except for chapters 1 & 8 which have a metal slipcase). Once the initial release is sold out, the CDs are repackaged in a tall-box digipack book format. Naturally the tall-box issues have a much lower retail price tag. All the initial release CD-sized issues become priceless collectors’ items in time.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Box Set Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ MADE IN CHICAGO
ECM 2392 (Barcode: 602537809356) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015
Although born, raised and musically educated in Chicago, pianist / Master drummer / composer / bandleader Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist left the Windy City and moved on to the Big Apple in 1966, leaving behind his schoolmates and bandmates from the Chicago loft scene. He soon got involved with such pivotal Jazz figures like Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, and later on led many of his own ensembles, living one of the most fulfilling and artistically creative lives in American Jazz history.
In the meantime his Chicago cohorts: pianist Muhal Richard AbramsFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Roscoe MitchellFind albums by this artist and Henry ThreadgillFind albums by this artist became the core of the AACM, one of the most important American Jazz platforms, which gave birth to countless revolutionary recordings and kept the American Jazz developing and expanding the boundaries set by the stale mainstream traditionalism.
The celebrations of DeJohnette´s seventieth birthday created the opportunity to bring DeJohnette together again with Abrams, Mitchell and Threadgill. The specially formed quintet was formed by adding the Chicago born and based bassist Larry GrayFind albums by this artist and the quintet recorded the music presented here live. They perform six original compositions, two of which are by Mitchell, one each by Abrams, DeJohnette and Threadgill and one is credited to all five quintet members.
People familiar with the recordings by the Chicago scene musicians will find this music pretty familiar stylistically and the AACM aesthetic prevails throughout, with long, slowly developing themes and extended improvisations setting the tone. The melodic threads, stated usually after a moody preamble, are then extensively improvised upon, only to be repeated by the end of each track. There is a lot of space and freedom in this music, which allows all the musicians to state their own ides as well as exchange ideas with the other members of the quintet.
This is definitely not the kind of music that DeJohnette usually plays outside of this specific project and his ability not only to blend in but also contribute significantly to the overall result is truly remarkable. His incredible sensitivity, elegance and technical brilliance are here right in the open, for the listener to enjoy.
As much as this album celebrates DeJohnette´s lifetime achievements, even more so it celebrates the Chicago Jazz scene, which is undoubtedly the most creative and adventurous center of ambitious music in the USA, burgeoning with inventiveness and passion, not only amongst the older generation but also involving many your Jazz and Improvising Music artists. Should this album prompt more listeners to plunge deeper into Jazz Made in Chicago, DeJohnette added another milestone to his magnificent career.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ ONENESS
ECM 1637 (Barcode: 731453734326) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
This is an excellent, but unfortunately little known album by the legendary drummer / composer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. In parallel to his work as a sideman with the most important Jazz musicians for over 40 years, he also led his own ensembles, like this one. The album was recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Michael CainFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist Jerome HarrisFind albums by this artist and veteran percussionist Don AliasFind albums by this artist, and presents original music, written by DeJohnette or co-written by the quartet members. The music, firmly rooted in the Jazz tradition, embraces a cross-genre attitude, wandering into other territories, like atmospheric ambient or contemporary Classical music. This is definitely the more introvert and gentle side of this great musician. The album yet again emphasizes DeJohnette´s pivotal role in modern Jazz, always in the epicenter of creative breakthroughs. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ ANOTHER TIME: THE HILVERSUM CONCERT
RESONANCE 2031 (Barcode: 096802280405) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2017
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. It is only the 3rd album released by this particular trio. The music was recorded at the Dutch Radio Union studio on June 22, 1968, just a couple of days after the recording at the legendary MPSFind albums on this label Records studio in Villingen, Germany, on June 20, 1968, which yielded the “Some Other Time: The Lost Session From The Black ForestFind albums with this title”, released by ResonanceFind albums on this label Records a year earlier. The recording took place just one week after Evans and the trio recorded the iconic live album “At The Montreux Jazz FestivalFind albums with this title”.
The album presents nine tracks, three of which are Evans’ originals and the rest are standards. It offers a stunning sound quality, one of the absolutely best live Evans’ recordings. It also features an extended booklet with interviews with Gomez and DeJohnette and other background information.
The music is executed with passion and elegance, which were always the essential ingredients of Evans’ music. There are trio, duo and solo performances. The phenomenal and literally symbiotic relationship between Evans and Gomez is omnipresent and the bass gets a prominent presence in the mix and numerous solo spots, in contrast to the drums, which are almost completely far in the background, when present at all. DeJohnette was a member of the trio for just a few months and this is perhaps why his role on this album is minimized, which results in most of the music sounding like a piano / bass duo, which of course does not lessen any of the music’s magic quality.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering a lesser documented period of his activity. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: 23/01/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ SOME OTHER TIME: THE LOST SESSION FROM THE BLACK FOREST
RESONANCE 2019 (Barcode: 096802280276) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2016
This is a sensational archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary MPSFind albums on this label Records studio in Villingen, Germany, on June 20, 1968, by the owner of the label Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) and produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. The material was subsequently not released, despite several attempts, and remained in the MPS vaults for almost five decades, to be finally released by ResonanceFind albums on this label Records.
The recording took place just five days after Evans and the trio recorded the iconic live album “At The Montreux Jazz FestivalFind albums with this title”. The 2CD album presents eleven tracks on CD1, which were selected for the intended MPS album, which never materialized, and ten tracks on CD2, which are outtakes and alternate takes, all of course worth being heard. Evans did eventually record an album for MPS some six years later, the groundbreaking orchestral “SymbiosisFind albums with this title”, which is a completely another pair of shoes.
The music consists of a mixture of standards and Evans’ originals, executed with passion and elegance, which were always the essential ingredients of Evans’ music. There are trio, duo and solo performances. The phenomenal and literally symbiotic relationship between Evans and Gomez is omnipresent and the bass gets a prominent presence in the mix and numerous solo spots, in contrast to the drums, which are almost completely far in the background, when present at all. DeJohnette was a member of the trio for just a few months and this is perhaps why his role on this album is minimized, which results in most of the music sounding like a piano / bass duo, which of course does not lessen any of the music’s magic quality.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering a lesser documented period of his activity. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: 15/05/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE FARRELL ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 888750636829 (Barcode: 888750636829) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1975 Released: 2015
This Box Set collects five of the six albums recorded by brilliant American flautist / saxophonist / composer Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist and released between 1970 and 1975 on the legendary CTIFind albums on this label Records label. They are: his debut as a leader and first album "Joe Farrell QuartetFind albums with this title", the second "OutbackFind albums with this title", the fourth "Penny ArcadeFind albums with this title", the fifth "Upon This RockFind albums with this title" and the sixth "Canned FunkFind albums with this title". His third album "Moon GermsFind albums with this title" was separately reissued on CD in 2001 by SonyFind albums on this label. Farrell joined the first incarnation of Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist in 1972 and took part in the recording of their first two legendary albums. The music presented on these five albums falls quite neatly into two separate categories: the first two albums are complex modern Jazz / Jazz-Rock Fusion and even include some Free Form moments, whereas the next three albums are Groove / Funk oriented.
The first album ("Joe Farrell Quartet") is especially noteworthy, as it is one of the most important and beautiful documents of the era. Farrell´s quartet, which also included pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist (all from Miles DavisFind albums by this artist electric band) is augmented by the presence of guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist on two tracks, turning the resulting quintet into a mighty power of Nature. It is worthwhile to compare these tracks with McLaughlin´s debut album "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title" or the Jack BruceFind albums by this artist album "Things We LikeFind albums with this title", which also features McLaughlin. Together these three a.m. albums contain some of the most important and powerful music ever made.
The second album places Farrell alongside Corea again, but this time with bassist Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist, with whom Farrell recorded a series of superb albums for the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label between 1968 and 1971. It presents superb modern Jazz and Fusion, played by Masters of the trade. Together with the third album ("Moon Germs"), which is not present in this Box Set, which features Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano, Stanley ClarkeFind albums by this artist on bass and again Jack DeJohnette on drums, and of course his numerous recordings as a sideman, Farrell established his position as one of the leading figures on the US scene.
The remaining three albums document the transition Farrell made from modern Jazz / Fusion into Jazz-Funk, which is characterized by more emphasis on melodic content and Funk / Groove rhythmic patterns. Although many of Farrell´s fans had a hard time getting used to this new musical direction, his work in that genre was always top notch, with impeccable musicianship and wonderful compositions. He cooperated with several top players specializing in that specific area, like guitarist Joe BeckFind albums by this artist, bassist Herb BushlerFind albums by this artist and others. In retrospect these albums are classics of the genre, sound superbly fresh today and honestly had very little true competition by anybody else over the years.
Farrell, who sadly died in 1986, aged just 48, was definitely an exceptional player and composer, who contributed immensely to American Jazz by constantly searching for new way of expression, ignoring genre constrains and mainstream thinking. This Box Set is an essential listening to every Jazz / Fusion fan on this planet.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases 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 for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 05/04/2024Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MORDY FERBER ~ MR. X
HALF NOTE 4205 (Barcode: 015095420527) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 2000
This is the 2nd album as a leader by Israeli guitarist / composer Mordy FerberFind albums by this artist, recorded with a spectacular lineup, which includes American saxophonists Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist and George GarzoneFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brad HatfieldFind albums by this artist, bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and Brazilian percussionist Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are original compositions by Ferber and one is by Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist. This is a second edition of the album.
Ferber, born in 1958 near Haifa, was one of the several young Israeli musicians, who frequented my home while growing up and getting into Jazz, partly under my influence. By the end of the 1970s and in early 1980s Ferber became a most sought after Israeli session guitarists and took part in recording many legendary albums at the time. He left to study at Berklee, like many other Israeli Jazz musicians, and decided to stay in the US, visiting Israel occasionally.
The music floats between melodic contemporary Jazz and some more Fusion influenced pieces, all beautifully put together and performed by this highly talented team. His guitar performances are nothing short of stellar and the entire album is a great piece of delightful music, which sadly never achieved the proper attention on the US scene, which has always been flooded by way too many releases. He recorded several more albums but his output sadly does not reflect his great talent, which is a great pity.
Overall, this is a beautiful album, full of great music and spectacular playing, which is criminally little known both in Israel and on the global scene. The contributions by Eddie Gomez are especially stunning and alone worth getting a copy of this album. Of course guitar enthusiasts should be also fully satisfied. A great piece of personal nostalgia for me.
| | Updated: 07/09/2024Posted: 18/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HERBIE HANCOCK ~ THE NEW STANDARD
VERVE 988403 (Barcode: 602498840351) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2005
After playing jazz standards throughout all his life (in addition to original music of course), Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist decided to record an album dedicated to his rendition of contemporary Pop songs, which in his opinion deserve to enter the standard songbook. The BeatlesFind albums by this artist, Steve WonderFind albums by this artist and scores of other songwriters active since the 1960’s composed thousands of songs worthy of becoming classics, yet the jazz standards to this day are mostly tunes written in the first half of the 20th century. Hancock selected a dreamy sextet of some of the best contemporary jazz Masters to take part in this recording, with Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist – sax, John ScofieldFind albums by this artist – guitar, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist – bass, Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist – drums and Don AliasFind albums by this artist – percussion. He takes the original tunes quite far from the source, transforming them into jazz with masterful touch and divine sensibility. Of course all the players perform beautifully, with Hancock taking a few fiery solos and so do Brecker and Scofield. The rhythm section provides solid and sophisticated background and the entire session just swings like there is no tomorrow. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ AFTER THE FALL
ECM 2590/91 (Barcode: 602567165064) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2018
This is an archival live album by the iconic American pianist / composer / bandleader Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, recorded with his regular trio, which included bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twelve tracks, all of which are standards.
This legendary trio, often referred to as the “standards trio”, recorded twenty-one albums between 1983 and 2009, the first three of which were studio albums and the rest were live recordings. This album, recorded in 1998, was only released twenty years later (2018) and is (so far) the last release by the trio on the ECMFind albums on this label label.
The recording follows a period of two years of Jarrett’s break in his musical activity (1996-1998), as a result of the CFS illness. He continues to perform, albeit rather sporadically, until 2016, and in 2018 suffered two major strokes, which put an end to his illustrious career.
The music is, as always, heartbreakingly beautiful, with Jarrett undoubtedly shining as one of Jazz greatest interpreters of standards and the trio as one of the best ever classic piano trios in the history of Jazz. One might wonder if we need twenty-one albums to get a proof of the trio abilities, that in addition to dozens of Jarrett’s solo piano, Classical Music and a myriad of other recordings, with the answer to this question remaining open. He certainly proved a milking cow for ECM since his legendary “The Köln Concert” album from 1975.
Overall, this is obviously a brilliant display of Jarret’s and the trio’s as a whole mighty gift of creating brilliant Jazz, and as such becomes an instant classic, and a must in every Jarret’s completist collection. The sound quality is a tad below the usual ECM “perfection”, which is perhaps why this material was hidden for two decades, but on the other hands this adds a bit to the authenticity. Lovers of Jazz piano trio should be in tears, when listening to this stuff, despite the fact that it adds little to Jarrett’s established status.
| | Updated: 26/05/2023Posted: 26/05/2023 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ ALWAYS LET ME GO – LIVE IN TOKYO
ECM 1800/01 (Barcode: 044001878626) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2002
This live recording by the greatest piano trio in the world: pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is often referred to as one of their most spectacular moments. Infinitely complex musically and overwhelming emotionally, this music is an endless well of pleasures for any sensitive listener, which could last for one´s lifetime and probably will do so forever. This concert finds the trio performing music composed by Jarrett (except for two compositions credited to the trio), two of which span well over half an hour each, an unprecedented scope for a piano trio performance. Everything here is simply perfection incarnate and divine inspiration, so whatever else I could say is honestly completely redundant. An absolute must!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ AT THE BLUE NOTE – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS
ECM 1575/80 (Barcode: 731452763822) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on piano, Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist on bass and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums / 3 nights / 6 Sets / 38 tunes / almost 8 hours / 6 CDs / 1 Box – these "statistics" say it all really. This is the best music (mostly timeless standards and some Jarrett originals) played by the best musicians (the above) in the best possible setting (piano trio), in short heaven on earth. Anybody saying this is excessive and self-indulging is simply nuts – there is no such thing as too much of great music. Listening to these performances is not only a sublime aesthetic experience but also a great opportunity to witness how the process of improvisation works, day after day, hour after hour, never repeating and always re-inventing the invented each time anew. The only question is: Can you afford it? If so, grab it, if not, starve and then grab it!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I love the Jarrett Trio and I love marathon sessions of playing related CDs, so this was bound to be a special experience, but it is even better than I hoped. Having said that, for an even more thrilling version of Ellington´s "Things Ain´t What They Used To Be," listen to the encore on the Jarrett Trio´s "The Cure," recorded live at NY City Hall a few years earlier and not yet on Jazzis. (PS - not to be confused with the mock-Cockney song "Fings Ain´t Wot They Used To Be")
| | | CD 6 Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ BYE BYE BLACKBIRD
ECM 1467 (Barcode: 731451307423) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1993
US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was of course a member of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensembles at the most pivotal period of their existence, and therefore his association with Miles surely influenced his future development. This album, recorded immediately (two weeks later) after Miles Davis died, is a loving tribute to the Great Master. Accompanied by his regular trio: bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist; Jarrett performs eight compositions, six of which were often performed and recorded by Miles and two new compositions dedicated to him. The performances are of course stellar, as usual for this trio, and the album is a must for any serious Jazz connoisseur. Miles remembered!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ CHANGELESS
ECM 1392 (Barcode: 042283961821) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1987 Released: 1989
This is a live recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, captured during their 1987 US tour, which present a set of original compositions by Jarrett. In the liner notes of this album Jarrett explains that these are really improvised pieces, which crystallized during the trio´s rehearsals and live concerts, rather than conventional compositions. Regardless of their origin, they are as emotional and fascinating as everything else these musicians created. They play music in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ CHANGES
ECM 1276 (Barcode: 781182127623) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1984
Brilliant album by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, recorded at the same session which resulted in the two "Standards" albums. This album, which includes Jarrett´s original compositions, is closer to the "usual" music performed by the trio, but the atmosphere prevailing at these sessions is firmly present within, which integrates this music with the two standards albums into a coherent musical entity. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ HAMBURG `72
ECM 2422 (Barcode: 602547042569) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2014
The piano trio with bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist was Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist´s first ensemble as a leader and he recorded several albums with the trio before adding saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist, creating the so called American quartet. By the time this music was recorded the trio did not perform any more as such and it is probably one of the last if not the last concert they played together, which was recorded. Jarrett plays primarily the piano but also flute, soprano saxophone and percussion. The album includes six compositions, four of which are his ("Everything That Lives Laments" was recorded on the trio´s last album "The Mourning Of A StarFind albums with this title" / "Take Me Back" was recorded on Jarrett´s "ExpectationsFind albums with this title" album just a couple on months earlier), one is by his (then) wife Margot and one by Haden (the famous "Song For Che").
This was a transition period for Jarrett, following his early solo career and the stint with Miles Davis, but before he found his true individual voice, which reached its apex in his trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The seeds of greatness are of course there, but not the fully blossomed genius. Therefore this album suffers from the same problems all the rest of the recordings by that trio suffer from: a lack of focus and consistency. On the other hand it is the best sounding recording (which is hardly surprising) of this trio´s releases.
Overall this is a very important historical document as far as Jarrett´s career is concerned, obviously essential to Jarrett´s enthusiasts following his career closely (and buying absolutely every album he is on), but hardly Jarrett at his absolute best, a curiosity rather than a groundbreaking statement.
God only knows (and perhaps Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, but it is highly possible they are one and the same) how spacious the ECMFind albums on this label vaults are and how many more archival Jarrett´s albums are going to surface in the future. Hopefully they will prove to be more exciting than this one.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ INSIDE OUT
ECM 1780 (Barcode: 044001400520) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly the most famous Jazz ensemble on the scene since at least two decades. All these musicians are absolute Masters of the trade, but what makes this trio tick is the telepathic conversation, that connects them into a perfect unison. A long and impressive array of recordings by this trio, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, is one of the pillar stones of modern Jazz, regardless of the fact if they play standards or original compositions by Jarrett. Each and every one of these recordings has something to offer and even if one already owns some of them, one more is always welcome. This album is a live recording at the Royal Festival Hall in London and the trio plays four original compositions and one standard. The music is just perfect, as is the recording quality, for which the label is famous. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ MY FOOLISH HEART – LIVE AT MONTREUX
ECM 2021/22 (Barcode: 602517373266) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2007
No other piano trio on this planet plays the standards the way the pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist do – divinely, perfectly, differently… In the liner notes accompanying this release Jarrett writes as follows: "I want to thank Gary and Jack for sharing the struggle for artistic survival in a word of fakery, thoughtlessness, mimicry, diffidence, apathy, unconsciousness, laziness, empty virtuosity, ignorance and self-deceit." I must say that these words match exactly what I think and feel since many years and time only makes them more relevant. Therefore music of such beauty and artistic value must be cherished, even if by just a few. This album is the second document of the trio´s European tour of 2001, following "The Out-Of-TownersFind albums with this title". Of all the live "Standards" recordings, this one surpasses them all (if such thing is at all possible) and is an absolute model and an essential piece of music history!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ SETTING STANDARDS
ECM 2030/32 (Barcode: 602517373440) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2008
This wonderful Box Set contains the complete recordings by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist during the January 1983 sessions in NY, which were released on three separate albums on the ECMFind albums on this label label: "Standards, Vol.1Find albums with this title" (ECM 1255), "Standards Vol.2Find albums with this title" (ECM 1289) and "ChangesFind albums with this title" (ECM 1276). Jarrett´s treatment of the standards is of course completely unique and unparalleled by any other interpretation available on record. His strong personality and vision transforms these melodies into a new plane, which is a mixture of the Jazz tradition and Jarrett´s only one of its kind universe. The third album, which includes Jarrett´s original compositions, is closer to the "usual" music performed by the trio, but the atmosphere prevailing at these sessions is firmly present within, which integrates this music with the two standards albums into a coherent musical entity. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
Side Note: These three albums were released on CD but are not available individually any more, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ SOMEWHERE
ECM 2200 (Barcode: 602527663708) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2013
This is a live recording by the celebrated pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, which is the best piano trio that ever walked upon this earth. Recorded in 2009, this is chronologically the most recent recording by the trio, which epitomizes the Art of the Jazz piano trio since its inception three decades ago. They perform eight pieces, two of which are Jarrett´s originals and six are standards. The two originals are intertwined with two of the standards, which results in the album having only six separate tracks.
The only document we have at our disposal of the trio´s performances preceding this one is the 2002 recording released as "Up For ItFind albums with this title", which sadly looked as perhaps being their final recorded hour, and therefore the release of this album is an extraordinarily joyous occasion, which opens the gates of hope for more material by these astonishing musicians. Sine the vaults of ECMFind albums on this label are kept more secret than those of the Pentagon, there is no certainty either way.
There is really no point in explaining yet again why this is unparalleled music, performed by Master musicians; if anybody reading these lines is not convinced, it might be just too late for them. Listening to this music exemplifies the essence of Jazz, its Artistry and its beauty. Improvisation, the missing link which bridges between ordinary music and extraordinary music, is presented here clearly, explicitly and masterly, straight from the horse´s mouth, for all to follow and enjoy. Anything else is simply superfluous.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STANDARDS LIVE
ECM 1317 (Barcode: 602517758476) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 Released: 2008
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly the most famous Jazz ensemble on the scene since at least two decades. All these musicians are absolute Masters of the trade, but what makes this trio tick is the telepathic conversation, that connects them into a perfect unison. A long and impressive array of recordings by this trio, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, is one of the pillar stones of modern Jazz, regardless of the fact if they play standards or original compositions by Jarrett. Each and every one of these recordings has something to offer and even if one already owns some of them, one more is always welcome. This album is a live recording in France and the trio plays six classic standards, and no other musicians is able to make standards sound like Jarrett does. The music is just perfect, as is the recording quality, for which the label is famous. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STANDARDS VOL.1
ECM 1255 (Barcode: 042281196621) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1985
Brilliant album by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, presenting Jarrett´s treatment of standards, which is of course completely unique and unparalleled by any other interpretation available on record. His strong personality and vision transforms these melodies into a new plane, which is a mixture of the Jazz tradition and Jarrett´s only one of its kind universe. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STILL LIVE
ECM 1360/61 (Barcode: 042283500822) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1988
This is the second live "standards" recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s. The trio will record a long series of live "standards" albums in the scope of the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE CURE
ECM 1440 (Barcode: 042284965026) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1991
This is a live "standards" recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, except for one original Jarrett piece, which gives the album its title. The trio will record a long series of live "standards" albums in the scope of the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Among the many wonderful albums by this trio, The Cure manages to be outstanding, particularly for the final track, with its almost painfully restrained and very exciting drum work
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE OUT-OF-TOWNERS
ECM 1900 (Barcode: 602498196106) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2004
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist piano trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is not only the most famous Jazz ensemble but also the best there is in that niche. Playing together since 1983, they sure had enough time together to become inseparable as a music-making unit. They certainly don´t have to prove anything anymore, which allows them to select freely what they want to play together. The decision to play mostly standards is a courageous one, as playing standards is sometimes considered limited and unimaginative. But that does not apply to what this trio is doing, even if they are doing it for so long. The way they re-invent standards and expand them with their own additions is simply miraculous and unparalleled. And so every new album by this trio is simply another musical adventure, we can all enjoy. This live recording is a bit special, as it includes a solo piano track (the last track on the album), which so far was never part of the trio´s albums. This is beyond recommendations and praises, just get it and enjoy.
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ TOKYO `96
ECM 1666 (Barcode: 731453995529) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1998
This is a live recording by the piano trio led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. Following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, the trio recorded a long sequence of live "standards" albums during the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression by the individual players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ UP FOR IT
ECM 1860 (Barcode: 044003831728) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
In the liner notes accompanying this CD, pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist describes the circumstances surrounding this particular live recording by the trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist at the Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival (southern France). Following an extremely difficult period full of personal problems, experienced by these great musicians (including health problems, with are always the worst), they were all ready to hit bottom at that particular moment. But a miraculous ray of sunshine uplifted their spirits and enabled them to go on stage, being "up for it" – to play a wonderful set of standards. No other trio on this planet plays the standards the way they do and pray God they will continue to do so as long as they are able. As always, this is divine stuff, every little sound-bit, every pause, every nuance and every breath of air. An absolute must!
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  | KEITH JARRETT ~ WHISPER NOT
ECM 1724/25 (Barcode: 731454381628) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000
This is a live recording by the piano trio led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. Following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, the trio recorded a long sequence of live "standards" albums during the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression by the individual players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ YESTERDAYS
ECM 2060 (Barcode: 602517744479) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2009
This live recording by the best Jazz piano trio in the world: pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, is a companion release to the album "Always Let Me Go – Live In TokyoFind albums with this title", as it was recorded at the same series of concerts. This album, however, presents the trio playing standards, as opposed to the original material collected on the a.m. album. As all the other "Standards" albums released by this trio, this one is also perfect in every way and obviously different again from everything else already available. There is no point of going into how great this music is – the people who know this already will not hesitate for a moment and the ones who don´t want to know, don´t matter AFAIAC. An absolute must!
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  | KEITH JARRETT / JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ RUTA AND DAITYA
ECM 1021 (Barcode: 731451377624) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1993
This is an early collaboration between US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, which will later on evolve into world´s most famous Jazz trio with the addition of bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist. The music herein was privately recorded by these two musicians while they were still members of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensemble. Following the release of Jarrett´s "Facing YouFind albums with this title" album on ECMFind albums on this label, he offered ECM these recordings and the label released them willingly. The music is mostly co-composed by Jarrett and DeJohnette, with just a few compositions credited to Jarrett alone. The atmosphere is intimate and quite free, evidently mostly improvised, as appropriate for the period. Jarrett plays both acoustic and electric piano and this is one of the latest recording where he was using electric piano, soon to be totally dedicated to the acoustic piano. DeJohnette plays wonderfully and the duo setting emphasizes his unusual approach to rhythm and his truly amazing musicality and ability to listen to his partners. This is a great chapter, although relatively unknown, in the history of these great musicians. A must!
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  | EERO KOIVISTOINEN ~ ALTERED PICTURES
SVART 529 (Barcode: 6430077094710) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
This is a 3CD reissue of the two albums by iconic Finnish saxophonist / composer / bandleader Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist recorded originally in the US in 1983 and 1991.
CD1 presents the album “Picture In Three ColorsFind albums with this title” recorded by a sextet, which includes Koivistoinen with American musicians: trumpeter Tom HarrellFind albums by this artist, pianist Jim McNeelyFind albums by this artist, guitarist John ScofieldFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron McClureFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, all by the leader. The album was originally released on Koivistoinen’s new (at the time) self-owned record label ProFind albums on this label Records.
CD2 presents the album “Altered ThingsFind albums with this title” recorded by a septet, which includes Koivistoinen with American musicians: trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Conrad HerwigFind albums by this artist, pianist David KikoskiFind albums by this artist, Scofield, McClure and DeJohnette. Norwegian keyboardist Bugge WesseltoftFind albums by this artist added synthesizer parts on three tracks during post production and mix, which was done at the Rainbow Studio in Oslo by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original tracks, eight by the leader and one each by Finnish pianist / composer Seppo KantonenFind albums by this artist and McClure. The album was originally released on CD only on the Dutch TimelessFind albums on this label Records label, owned by Wim WigtFind albums by this artist, who produced the album.
CD3 presents eight bonus tracks, five from the first album and three from the second, which include both outtakes and alternate takes, all by the leader except one composition by McClure.
The music is all within the modern mainstream Jazz tradition, showcasing Koivistoinen’s brilliant composing / arranging skills and superb performances by some of the best American Jazz musicians active at the time.
Koivistoinen’s ties with American Jazz go back in time to the years spent at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he absorbed the knowledge he would brilliantly utilize during his future career. He always showed a deep respect towards the American Jazz tradition, but at the same time presented a highly individual voice, which went beyond the boundaries of that tradition and incorporated European musical values and his native Finnish influences, turning him into one of the most versatile and prominent European Jazz personalities, as the music included here brilliantly exemplifies.
It is of course great to see these two important albums expanded and made available again, thanks to the exemplary work done by SvartFind albums on this label Records, which treats the Finnish musical treasures with the respect they deserve, preserving the Cultural values, which are perhaps more important today than ever, in these dark days.
| | Updated: 22/02/2022Posted: 20/02/2022 | CD 3 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ RABO DE NUBE
ECM 2053 (Barcode: 602517548114) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
This is a live recording by American saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and his quartet which includes pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist. They perform together seven compositions, six of which are Lloyd´s originals and the title track was composed by the great Cuban musician / composer Silvio RodriguezFind albums by this artist.
Of all the great Jazz heroes of my youth, Lloyd seems to be the very last Mohican still alive and kicking, as if he was living in a time capsule; time has been very kind to him and his vitality and amazing talent flourish completely untouched and unblemished. A while ago I listened to all the mid to late 1960s recordings by the Charles Lloyd legendary quartet with pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassists Ron McClureFind albums by this artist / Cecil McBeeFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and that music sounds even better today than it sounded then, and in parallel Lloyd is able to play the way he does now, four decades later. This is simply amazing!
Of course the fact that Lloyd manages to surround himself with some of the absolutely best young and upcoming musicians (as he always did) is part of the secret formula. Moran is a major contender to the exclusive top Jazz pianists "club" and the rhythm section is also inspired and technically very proficient. Most importantly however is the fact that they show an immense respect for the Master, supporting his at all times sympathetically and unpretentiously, waiting for their solo spots patiently.
Staying contemporary for five decades is definitely a super rare ability, so thank God for Charles Lloyd and his music.
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  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ A HANDFUL OF STARS
CHIAROSCURO 209 (Barcode: 091454020928) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1997
This is a little known and sort of a “lost” album by Polish pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1981 but released only sixteen years later in 1997, for reasons aptly explained in the album’s booklet. The album was produced by the legendary John HammondFind albums by this artist, who was also responsible for the first album Makowicz recorded in the US, and features Makowicz in a relatively rare piano trio setting, with two superb instrumentalists: Czech bassist (and another émigré) George MrazFind albums by this artist and American drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, which are a usual mixture of Makowicz originals (four) and Jazz standards. A twelfth (hidden) track is a spoken word track, on which Makowicz tell the story of his life and career.
The music is a brilliant display of Makowicz incredible technique and captures him shortly after his arrival in the US, when his playing was still influenced to some degree by his Polish tradition and Slavic lyricism, which almost completely disappeared in the years to come. As already mentioned, it is a rare trio setting as Makowicz definitely prefers solo piano outings.
The album is closely linked to the “From My WindowFind albums with this title” solo piano album, also recorded in 1981 the duo recording “Classic Jazz DuetsFind albums with this title” with Mraz, recorded in 1982, as well as “The Name Is MakowiczFind albums with this title” quintet recording from 1983, all of which present his work from that period.
It is no wonder that Makowicz managed to win the hearts of the American audiences and critic alike, since his treatment of the American Jazz tradition sounds completely familiar and orthodox, spiced of course with his virtuosic technique and genuine love of the music, and his original compositions are fully in the vein of American standards, many of which were composed by composers of Polish heritage, like Bronislaw KaperFind albums by this artist, Victor YoungFind albums by this artist or Henryk WarsFind albums by this artist, a fact American listeners had no clue about of course. Mraz and DeJohnette play splendidly, as expected, and the classic Jazz piano trio format proves to be unbeatable again.
Overall, this is a splendid opportunity to hear Makowicz in a trio setting and explore the early stages of his US career. The music stands the test of time splendidly and should be a delightful experience to every mainstream Jazz lover. For Polish Jazz collectors this is an absolute must, although it is not easy to find a copy these days.
| | Updated: 25/07/2023Posted: 25/07/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY PEACOCK ~ VOICE FROM THE PAST - PARADIGM
ECM 1210 (Barcode: 731451776823) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1990
This great album by US bassist / composer Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist is a milestone achievement in his extensive career. Recorded with an all star quartet with Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and his life-long partner drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, the album presents six extended pieces, all composed by Peacock, beautifully executed by the participants. In retrospect this is one of the pivotal albums, which summarize the 1970s, which was perhaps the most creative period for Free Jazz, expanding upon the seeds planted a decade earlier by the pioneers of the genre. Most Jazz musicians in the 1980s were to return to the "roots", with modern mainstream experiencing a remarkable renaissance. But this album is still very much rooted in the Free Jazz tradition, with creative group improvisation and telepathic interplay are the main ingredients. Stanko´s input is simply breathtaking, which confirms the fact that he was at that time at one of his creative peaks. But all the musicians play incredibly well and the session displays creative fire of rare magnitude. In retrospect this is definitely on of the strongest albums of that period, sadly rarely mentioned as such. Brilliant stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Wonderful album indeed - Peacock is somewhat reminiscent of Barre Phillips on this (eg, Mountainscapes, w/John Surman). For me it is completely timeless, and does not sound like a throw-back to the 70s or any other specific time.
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  | RGG ~ ONE
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 5905912559873) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
This is the 5th album by the excellent Polish Jazz piano trio RGGFind albums by this artist, which comprises of pianist Przemyslaw RaminiakFind albums by this artist, bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof GradziukFind albums by this artist. Its release marks the trio´s tenth anniversary and adds a new direction to the remarkable body of music already recorded by the trio. In contrast to its predecessor, that included only spontaneously improvised music, most of the music on this album is composed, either by the trio members or other well known Jazz composers like Carla BleyFind albums by this artist and Richie BeirachFind albums by this artist. Of the thirteen compositions presented here only two are free improvisations, which is unusual for them.
All three RGG members are brilliant instrumentalists, but their performances together clearly create an outcome much bigger than the sum of its parts. The level of interplay, cooperation, mutual respect and understanding is truly phenomenal and the resulting music is able to move emotional mountains. To an attentive listener it is quite clear that even when they play relatively close to the original composition, RGG members display a high level of spontaneity, which is present only within the best piano trios in the world, like that of Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist.
Another rare quality of RGG is the active involvement of the bass player and drummer in the process of music creation. This is definitely not a pianist with a rhythm section, but an organic three-headed body making music together.
This album can be a great service to the group as an introduction to their universe; surely anybody listening to it will want to explore their music further. People familiar with the Polish Jazz scene will immediately make the inevitable comparison between RGG and the "other" great Polish piano trio: Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist (or Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist Trio). Comparisons of this sort are futile and have absolutely no sense, as both these trios play great music, each differently from the other. RGG are definitely closer to the Free / Improvised spirit of the music whereas Wasilewski´s trio is more disciplined and conventional, but both are examples of human talent and ingenuity of the highest ranking, which gives us all the immense pleasure of music.
It´s worth to mention that the album was recorded at the Studio Tokarnia, the best sound studio in Poland, and engineered by the studio´s owner (and a gifted musician himself) Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist, which explains the incredible sound quality of this album. This is an absolute must to every Jazz piano trio connoisseur and of course anybody with a right pair of ears to appreciate great music. Not to be missed under any circumstances!
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  | CARLOS SANTANA ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS
SONY 886976260620 (Barcode: 886976260620) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1980 Released: 2010
This Box Set collects reissues of three studio albums by the iconic American guitarist / composer / bandleader Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist, originally released on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label between 1974 and 1980. They are: “IlluminationsFind albums with this title” (1974), “Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden RealtyFind albums with this title” (1979) and “The Swing Of DelightFind albums with this title” (1980). All three were released under Santana’s Sanskrit name Devadip Carlos SantanaFind albums by this artist given to him by Sri ChinmoyFind albums by this artist. These three albums followed Carlos Santana’s debut solo album recorded in collaboration with guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist entitled “Love Devotion SurrenderFind albums with this title” (1973).
“Illuminations” is a collaboration with pianist / harpist Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist, the wife of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. SantanaFind albums by this artist (the group) keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist and percussionist Armando PerazaFind albums by this artist play on the album and Coster also co-composed three of the tracks. Jazz musicians: bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and several others take part in the recording, as well as a large string section conducted by Alice Coltrane, who wrote the arrangements and co-composed one the tracks. A short chant by Chinmoy is the album’s opening track.
“Oneness: Silver Dreams - Golden Realty” presents fifteen relatively short compositions, most composed by Carlos Santana and is performed by a large group of musicians, including many Santana (the group) members. The first six tracks were recorded live and the rest were recorded in the studio.
“The Swing Of Delight”, originally a double LP, presents nine compositions performed by a large group of top Jazz musicians, including Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist, Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist and many others.
These three albums together with the a.m. “Love Devotion Surrender” album present some of the most spiritual and deeply Jazz influenced music that Carlos Santana created during his long-lasting career. The mixture of Indian spirituality, which he shared with many Jazz musicians at the time, and extensive / hypnotic Jazz improvisations are in retrospect some of his best achievements, and deserve to be cherished and remembered.
Side Note
The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases 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 for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty.
The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations.
In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!
| | Updated: 13/09/2021Posted: 13/09/2021 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | NICOLAS SIMION ~ JEU DES GARCONS
7DREAMS 107 (Barcode: 6421966000066) ~ ROMANIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2009
This is a brilliant early album by Romanian saxophonist / composer Nicolas SimionFind albums by this artist, which was recorded during the time he lived in Vienna. As in the case of many other Jazz recordings, it was very much a spur of the moment decision to record this session taking advantage of the fact that the great American musicians taking part in this recording were in town and agreed to do it. As often under such circumstances, there was little, if any, time to rehearse and yet the willpower, talent, professionalism and mutual respect prevailed, resulting in some superb music to be captured for posterity.
The album presents eight original compositions by Simion, recorded by a classic quartet, with pianist Michael CainFind albums by this artist, bassist Lonnie PlaxicoFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter PerfidoFind albums by this artist. Cain and Plaxico were at the time of the recording members of Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist´s group Special EditionFind albums by this artist, which played in Vienna the night before the recording. Perfido, an American resident in Europe, played over the years with all the great European Jazz musicians and was one of Simion´s "regulars" on later dates.
Not surprisingly, the performances are simply brilliant from start to finish. Simion displays a great technique and deep melodic lyricism, Cain is, as usual, flying all over the keys with his elegant touch and superb harmonic structures, Plaxico is a towed of strengths and incredible virtuoso and Perfido drives the quartet forward on the up-tempo numbers and gently keeps perfect time on the ballads. Even the sound quality is great, adding to the overall sublime listening experience.
The music is predominantly relaxed and beautifully melodic, not losing its lyrical qualities even in the heat of improvisation. The ballads are romantic and deeply moving, with slight touches of folkloristic undertones, so typical of East European composers. Although modern, the music displays a lot of respect towards the Jazz tradition, using it as a basis for further explorations. In many respects it combines the best of the two worlds; European Jazz composition with American performance.
Considering the fact that this is another recording from the 1990s, which is being released only now, so many years later, one must wonder how many such treasures Simion still hides in his Transylvanian castle? This music is too good to be hidden, so thanks Nicolas for enabling us to enjoy it and keep up the good work. Delightful stuff!
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  | JEREMY STEIG & EDDIE GOMEZ ~ MUSIC FOR FLUTE & DOUBLE BASS / RAIN FOREST
ART OF GROOVE 80242 (Barcode: 885513802422) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 - 1980 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of two excellent albums recorded by the two American Jazz Masters, flautist / composer Jeremy SteigFind albums by this artist and bassist / composer Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist. "Music For Flute & Double BassFind albums with this title", recorded in 1978, is a duo album which finds Steig and Gomez exchanging licks in an intimate setting, while "Rain ForestFind albums with this title", recorded in 1980, finds them in the company of several musicians: Austrian guitarist Karl RatzerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike NockFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionists Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist and Ray BarrettoFind albums by this artist. Both albums are remastered and each features one bonus track recorded by the duo live during the 1978 Berlin Jazz Days. Both albums were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label and present all original material composed by Steig and Gomez.
Steig and Gomez go together way back to the 1960s, when they were members of the proto Fusion band Jeremy & The SatyrsFind albums by this artist, and their paths crossed regularly over the years. They have developed over time a rare affinity and understanding between themselves, which comes into beautiful fruition on these albums.
The duo album is a superb opportunity to witness the incredible virtuosity these two players are capable of delivering, as well as enjoy their telepathic dialogues. The studio environment enables them to multi track and overlay several instruments in parallel, producing a richer and more impressive sonic result, without disturbing the intimacy and delicacy of that session.
The group album presents several different lineups from the list of participants above, and is an orgy of brilliant performances, polyrhythmic complexity and joy of life. Many excellent solos chase one another and everybody gets an opportunity to show their chops, as appropriate for the occasion. It is much more Fusion oriented than the intimate duo album.
Musically these albums amalgamate many different influences, obviously based on the Jazz tradition but incorporating many World Music characteristics, some Fusion tendencies and even contemporary Classical music vistas. Sadly these two albums never enjoyed the popularity they truly deserved and therefore this is a great opportunity to get hold of them again for a very fair price. After all this music should definitely be part of every serious music collection.
| | Updated: 28/06/2016Posted: 28/06/2016 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE STERN ~ GIVE AND TAKE
WOUNDED BIRD 3036 (Barcode: 664140303621) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1997 Released: 2007
9th album (8th on Atlantic) by American guitarist / composer Mike SternFind albums by this artist, who has been one of the most prominent figures in the Jazz and Fusion fields for the last three decades. His virtuoso performances and excellent writing are a source of musical joy and his consistently superb standards serve as a model, followed by generations of young guitarist around the world. On this album Stern continues the path established by its predecessors, presenting a set of his excellent compositions and three standards performed by a superb group of musicians, which includes saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and David SanbornFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Gil GoldsteinFind albums by this artist, bassist John PatitucciFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionist Don AliasFind albums by this artist. As usual, the compositions move between atmospheric ballads to up-tempo energetic excursions, performed with finesse and passion. This is classic Fusion and Stern´s guitar playing is simply overwhelmingly excellent, with great flow, emotion and technical virtuosity. A must for any Fusion enthusiast!
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  | JOHN SURMAN ~ FREE AND EQUAL
ECM 1802 (Barcode: 044001706523) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2003
This is a breathtakingly beautiful album by the British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who never stands still even for one moment, constantly re-inventing himself. Combining Jazz and contemporary Classical music, Surman composed this music to be performed by himself and veteran drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and accompanied by the superb brass ensemble London BrassFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live at Queen Elizabeth Hall, London. Not for everybody, but people who can appreciate this love every bit of this amazing music.
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  | JOHN SURMAN ~ THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF SIMON SIMON
ECM 1193 (Barcode: 042282916020) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1990
This amazing album is the 2nd release by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist on the ECMFind albums on this label label. Accompanied only by drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Surman performs a nine-part suite composed by him or co-composed with DeJohnette (one track is traditional). Surman uses multi-layered studio technique to create the effect of several instruments juxtaposed, although they are all played by him, which will become his trademark in years to come. Both the music and the performances are of course stellar and Surman´s pioneering and visionary approach to Jazz and other music forms is already strongly present here. This is also one of the most important recordings on ECM, inaugurating the label´s domination on the Jazz / contemporary music scene for the next decade – the 1980s. In retrospect this album is a timeless masterpiece, which deserves a place in every serious music collection. A classic!
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  | JOHN SURMAN / JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ INVISIBLE NATURE
ECM 1796 (Barcode: 044001637629) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2002
Twenty years after recording their previous duo project ("The Amazing Adventures Of Simon SimonFind albums with this title") for the ECMFind albums on this label label, British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist and US drummer / composer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist meet again for a live recording of almost completely improvised music, captured herein. Both these musicians have already established their status as Giants of modern music, which means they need not to prove anything anymore. This music is made for the pleasure (intellectual and emotional as one) of making music together and confirming the bond of musical friendship. The nature of Improvised Music makes it a priori more difficult to identify with than composed music. The process of the on-the-fly invention and creation can be extremely egocentric and intimate. But these two musicians magically create instantaneous music, which is communicative and immediately likeable, at least to well trained listeners. This album should be considered a true musical gem of rare quality by anybody with enough aesthetic integrity to listen to it open-mindedly. Surman´s virtuosity is simply spine-tingling and clearly time seems to flow in a parallel universe as far as he´s concerned, as he remains completely untouched by it. For me listening to this music evokes deeply emotional reaction, every time, confirming yet again my opinion that Surman is surely one of the very few prophetic musicians still among us. Beyond essential!
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  | MCCOY TYNER / JOE HENDERSON ~ FORCES OF NATURE: LIVE AT SLUGS`
BLUE NOTE 602465975147 (Barcode: 602465975147) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2024
This is a live archival album by American Jazz Giants pianist McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist, playing in a quartet setting with bassist Henry GrimesFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the NYC club Slugs’ sometime in 1966. The 2CD album presents five tracks, two of which are original compositions by Henderson, one by Tyner, another one is an improvised piece credited to all four musicians and finally one is a standard. Two of the pieces are close to thirty minutes in duration. The sound quality of the live recording is acceptable, but far from perfect. The album comes with an extensive booklet, with articles by musicians and critics, similar to the format of albums released on the ResonanceFind albums on this label label, which is not surprising since this album was produced by Zev FeldmanFind albums by this artist, the person behind Resonance.
All four musicians are brilliant players of course so anything they play can’t be bad of course, but this album captures just one random night where they play just another gig, so basically there is nothing here that we have not heard a thousand times before. Tyner was not with John ColtraneFind albums by this artist anymore, but he plays as if he still is, and Henderson tries to play like Coltrane, which is not his true call. In short everybody plays a lot of notes, and I mean a lot, and the neck breaking tempo is not doing much good to the music. Of course, again, these are great musicians, just not such a great album.
Overall, this is a meeting of Giants, who are somewhat confused as far as the musical direction of the music, other than playing as many notes per minute as humanly possible. For completists only IMHO, and almost all this music could have fitted on a single CD, making the cost of the album more reasonable.
| | Updated: 23/01/2025Posted: 23/01/2025 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ UNIVERSAL SYNCOPATIONS
ECM 1863 (Barcode: 044003850620) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
Soon after his arrival in the US from his native Czechoslovakia, bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist became one of the central figures in the vortex of Jazz activity in the late 1960s / early 1970s with the emergence of American Fusion. Over the years Vitous played with all the great Masters, both in the US and in Europe and this recording by the super-group quintet proves his status as a member of the Jazz elite. Saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist combine forces with Vitous, performing nine of his original compositions, two of which were co-composed with Garbarek and one with DeJohnette. On three of these compositions the quintet is expanded to an octet, with the addition of three brass players. The result is a mixture of modern Jazz and occasional Fusion experiments, with plenty of space for the individual players to improvise. The level of musicianship is of course staggering and the overall result should please most listeners of contemporary Jazz. Warmly recommended!
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  | KENNY WHEELER ~ GNU HIGH
ECM 1069 (Barcode: 602517775985) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
This is the first recording on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by the outstanding British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. After recording several albums as a leader and countless others as a sideman and being an integral part of the British modern Jazz revolution in the UK in the 1960s / 1970s, Wheeler slowly expanded his international career, starting with this extraordinary recording. Accompanied by a brilliant trio consisting of pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist (his last ever recording as a sideman), bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, the quartet plays just three original compositions by Wheeler, one of which is an extended suite over 21 minutes long. The performances are of course stellar and the album is a timeless classic and an essential piece of Jazz history. From the 35 years perspective this music gets better with time, remaining not only beautiful, but also eternally valuable. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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