Record Reviews

JOACHIM KUHN ~ POISON IN+OUT 77071 (Barcode: 798747707169) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005 This is a wonderful album by veteran German pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with French bassist Jean-Paul CeleaFind albums by this artist and Austrian drummer Wolfgang ReisigerFind albums by this artist. Kuhn plays saxophone on two tracks, which is of course quite a rarity. As usual with Kuhn´s projects, this one has also a concept behind it and is dedicated to songs related to the use of drugs. The album includes eleven pieces, four of which are original compositions by Kuhn and seven are his interpretations of Pop and Rock songs, all associated with the drug culture. The music is a superb example of modern European Jazz, of which Kuhn is one of its Godfathers. Although the interpretations of the Pop / Rock songs are pretty radical and completely transforming the originals into the Jazz realm, the overall atmosphere of this album is pretty calm and less Avant-Garde centered that his other recordings. An atmosphere of melancholy and reflection seems to be the leading force. As a result this album presents some of the most melodic and introvert Kuhn piano playing in a long time, which is of course as wonderful as always. The trio work is also excellent all the way, with obvious mutual respect and telepathic communication between the trio members. Celea, who also plays very melodically and lyrically, contributes several short, but excellent solos and Reisiger builds up a complex rhythmic layer, with nevertheless swings beautifully. Overall this is a classic piece of extraordinary piano trio music, advanced and incredibly complex on one hand and yet beautifully melodic and relaxed on the other. Of course Kuhn´s recorded legacy is full of extraordinary albums, but this one belongs to one of my personal favorites. It is one of those albums which change according to the mood of the listener, and therefore keeps being alive for posterity. For the many Kuhn fans this is an absolute must have, but people less familiar with his music could find here a splendid opportunity to enter the magic world of Joachim Kuhn, which is a true garden of delights!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 24/09/2016

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