Record Reviews

NIKOLA BANKOV ~ BRIGHT FUTURE AMP 051 (Barcode: 662578831310) ~ SLOVAKIA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the debut album by young Slovak Jazz saxophonist / composer Nikola BankovFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with young Danish musicians: guitarist Jonas GravlundFind albums by this artist, keyboardist August KorsgaardFind albums by this artist, bassist Jens Mikkel MadsenFind albums by this artist and drummer John RiddellFind albums by this artist. NY based saxophonist Seamus BlakeFind albums by this artist guests on five of the seven tracks of the album, all of which were composed by Bankov. The music offers a fresh, up to date sound with synthesized layers of electronics, atmospheric sheets of guitar reverberations and highly energetic rhythm section, with the saxophone (or saxophones) riding on top of the dense background. But there are also contemplative, relaxed moments, still crusted with electronics, but much less intensive. Beautiful melodic themes are carefully weaved along the way. Bankov managed to create a unique ensemble sound, which becomes an integral part of the music itself, which is very rare these days. The individual performances by all the musicians are nothing short of stunning and awe inspiring, especially considering the age factor. In view of the fact that Bankov is only twenty years old, God only knows what he will come up with next. The ensemble communication is remarkable and the resulting music is extremely effective, almost "physically" overwhelming, which might need getting into by less experienced listeners, but is definitely striking from the first exposure. Although European Jazz is incredibly creative at all times, it is relatively rare that somebody comes up with a new formula, which combines Jazz, Rock, Electronics and Ambient so effectively as what can be experienced on this album. As usual in such cases it completely shuns any attempt of genre definition and simply defines itself. Is this the future of Jazz? Well, since it is already here, it is certainly one of the possible directions. Overall this is certainly a stunning debut effort, which hits the listener right between the ears. It is very rare that music of such immediate impact lands on my desk, but when it does it is instantly recognizable. There is something for everybody here, providing one wishes to be open minded and let the music sink right into one´s soul. A revelation! Godspeed to all young Lions, bright future indeed!

Updated: 15/09/2019Posted: 15/09/2019

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