Record Reviews

PER HUSBY ~ DEDICATIONS HOT CLUB 21 (Barcode: 7029660010412) ~ NORWAY ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 1985 Released: 1990 This is an insanely beautiful album by Norwegian pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Per HusbyFind albums by this artist and his Orchestra / Big Band, which features the vocal talents of Norwegian singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British singer Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, my favorite Jazz singers in the whole world. The Orchestra includes the absolutely best Scandinavian players and the British guests: trumpeter Martin DroverFind albums by this artist and saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist. The album is dedicated to the American pianist / composer Tadd DameronFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, five of which are compositions by Dameron, two by Husby and one is a medley of a composition by Swedish Jazz composer Lars GullinFind albums by this artist and a composition by Husby dedicated to Gullin. The music was recorded at the fabulous Rainbow Studios and engineered by the legendary Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. The album is full of brilliant arrangements and superb performances by the instrumentalists, which are nothing less than astounding, and the entire Big Band sound is just breathtaking. The vocals are the proverbial cherry on top. This has been one of my favorite albums since the date it was released but I managed to get a copy of the CD only recently after a long hunt ;) This project has a twin album called “If You Could See Me NowFind albums with this title”, recorded a year later by the Husby / Krog / Fame team, this time with an American Big Band. The comparison between the two is a true lesson in the differences between American and European Jazz, especially in the Big Band idiom. Overall, this is a classic album both for Big Band Jazz lovers and Jazz vocals lovers, which has but a few competitors. Sadly, it is rather obscure despite its sublime class and aesthetic values, but hey this is the fate of so many great albums produced outside of the mainstream American Jazz machine. Wholeheartedly recommended to all true Jazz lovers.

Updated: 29/03/2023Posted: 29/03/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ FOLKWAYS MEANTIME 16 (Barcode: 7051070000165) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1996 - 2009 Released: 2010 This is a stunning album by iconic Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, accompanied by British saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Swedish violinist Mads BerglundFind albums by this artist and Norwegian oboist Brynjar HoffFind albums by this artist. The album presents nineteen tracks, most of which are Norwegian folk songs arranged by Krog, except for one original composition by Surman, which appears twice. The music was recorded at two separate sessions, thirteen years apart, by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, most probably at the Rainbow Studio in Oslo, although the information on the artwork is exceptionally skimpy. The music on this album is completely different from all the other recordings by Krog, which are mostly Jazz oriented and on which she sings in English. Here she deals mostly with Norwegian Folk songs and sings in Norwegian. Of course the arrangements do have a strong Jazz tinge, and Surman’s playing is all one way or another connected to improvisation. Since most of the tracks are Krog / Surman duets, this album might have been one more duo album by them, but the tracks with the two other guests sets it apart. One might speculate that one of the session was that with Surman, and the other session was with Berglund and Hoff? I must ask Karin about this ;) But mystery apart, musically the album is absolutely stunning and has been one of my favorite recordings by Krog (and Surman) since the day I heard it first. The music is unpretentious, intimate and reflects the perfect balance and telepathic communication between the musicians. It is a perfect example of Jazz-World Fusion amalgamation, which could be a school example of how such things are done at their best. Overall, this is an absolute brilliant album from start to finish, deeply moving and superbly musical. The amalgam of Folk music and Jazz is presented here at its absolute best and the result is simply irresistible. An absolute must!

Updated: 13/05/2022Posted: 13/05/2022

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ GERSHWIN WITH KARIN KROG MEANTIME 04 (Barcode: 7051070000042) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1973 - 1989 Released: 1993 This is a reissue / remaster of the sixth album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1973 and 1974 with a fabulous quartet of Norwegian musicians: saxophonist Bjarne NeremFind albums by this artist, pianist Egil KapstadFind albums by this artist, bassist Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The original album presented nine tracks, all standards composed by George GershwinFind albums by this artist, and this edition adds three tracks recorded in 1989 in a duet with Kapstad on electric piano. This album is a wonderful document of the early days of Krog’s career, with her idiosyncratic approach and style already well in place. It also documents the Scandinavian Jazz scene in the 1970s, which was developing rapidly, partly due to the fact that many American Jazz musicians settled in Scandinavia at the time, escaping the racist discrimination from which they suffered at home. Krog was always a sublime interpreter of the Great American Songbook, and her highly personal treatment of the standards was always absolutely unique, which is clearly evident on this early album. She was also a great lover of Gershwin’s songs and performed those often during her career. Of course the performances by the Norwegian players are also exceptional. Overall, this is a wonderful trip down the memory line, taking the listener fifty years back in time to the steaming Norwegian Jazz scene, which was exploding with talent and left a sublime legacy, which sounds as good today as it did then. For Jazz singers, this is a highly educational exposure of the Artistry of vocal Jazz.

Updated: 03/10/2023Posted: 03/10/2023

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ HUSKONSERT I AURSKOG MEANIME 06 (Barcode: 7051070000066) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1995 Released: 1996 This is a beautiful album by Norwegian Jazz vocalist / songwriter Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, on which she pays tribute to her great-grandfather Anders HeyerdahlFind albums by this artist, violinist / composer and Norwegian Folk music collector. The album presents twenty-two tracks, which include classical music composed by Heyerdahl and folk songs he collected, transcribed and composed. The music is performed by Krog, fiddler Matts BerglundFind albums by this artist, saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist, pianist Einar Henning SmebyeFind albums by this artist and Der Norske StrykekvartettFind albums by this artist (string quartet). The album was co-produced by Karin and John Surman and recorded by our Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, at his legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, and offers a spectacular sound quality. Although the album is intended as a tribute, the music is excellent from start to finish, especially the Folk songs performed by Krog with Surman’s accompaniment on bass clarinet. But the classical pieces and the Folk melodies played by Berglund are also fascinating. Overall, this is a highly unusual collection of music connected to Anders Heyerdahl, which deserves to be heard and is a beautiful musical experience from start to end, being an obvious labor of love by Krog and her companions.

Updated: 02/02/2024Posted: 02/02/2024

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ JAZZ MOMENTS MEANTIME 12 (Barcode: 7051070000127) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1966 Released: 2006 This is a reissue / remaster of the second album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1966 with a fabulous trio: American pianist Kenny DrewFind albums by this artist (resident in Denmark at the time), Danish bassist Niels-Henning Orsted PedersenFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist guests on three tracks. The original album presented nine tracks, all standards, and this edition adds one alternate take as a bonus track. This album is a wonderful document of the early days of Krog’s career, with her idiosyncratic approach and style already well in place. It also documents the Scandinavian Jazz scene in the mid-1960s, which was developing rapidly, partly due to the fact that many American Jazz musicians settled in Scandinavia at the time, escaping the racist discrimination from which they suffered at home. Krog was always a sublime interpreter of the Great American Songbook, and her highly personal treatment of the standards was always absolutely unique, which is clearly evident on this early album. Of course the performances by the young Scandinavian players are also exceptional. Overall, this is a wonderful trip down the memory line, taking the listener almost sixty years back in time to the steaming Scandinavian Jazz scene, which was exploding with talent and left a sublime legacy, which sounds as good today as it did then. For Jazz singers, this is a highly educational exposure of the Artistry of vocal Jazz.

Updated: 25/03/2024Posted: 16/08/2023

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ JOY MEANTIME 15 (Barcode: 7051070000158) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1968 - 1969 Released: 2008 This is a reissue of the third album by legendary Norwegian vocalist / composer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist recorded with young Norwegian musicians, who would soon become some of Europe’s Jazz icons: saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, pianist Terje BjorklundFind albums by this artist, bassist Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist, drummer Svein ChristiansenFind albums by this artist and percussionist Espen RudFind albums by this artist. This lineup recorded four of the tracks on this album, and the remaining track is a live recording with Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist, who joins Andersen to form a bass duo. The original album was expanded for this reissue by two live tracks recorded with a different lineup, which includes American (resident in Scandinavia at the time) trumpeter Ted CursonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The album was beautifully remastered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist at the Rainbow Studio in Oslo. In the liner notes written for the original album by American composer / bandleader George RussellFind albums by this artist, who was one of the very few musicians at the time beyond the pond to discover the European Jazz revolution, he recognizes Krog as one of the most innovative Jazz vocalists, of the class of Sheila Jordan and Jeanne Lee, and this album clearly shows why. Her approach to singing in particular and Jazz in general was already at that time completely innovative, using vocalese, electronics and unconventional timbre. Although the music is still partly rooted in traditional American Jazz, these young Norwegians show no inferiority complex whatsoever, already clearly seeing the path ahead. The almost completely freely improvised track is already deeply ahead of the tradition of course. Krog’s vocal performances and her idiosyncratic voice are delightful from start to finish and the superb instrumental performances by all the musicians involved sound absolutely fresh despite the fact that this music was recorded over five decades ago. It is great to see Karin reissuing her recorded legacy on her own MeantimeFind albums on this label label, as this music obviously deserves to be remembered and even today can teach the new generations of Jazz musicians, how important it is to step forward boldly. Since today is Karen’s Birthday, I wish her many more years of music!

Updated: 15/05/2021Posted: 15/05/2021

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ ONE ON ONE MEANTIME 07 (Barcode: 7051070000073) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1977 - 1980 Released: 1997 This is a compilation / reissue / remaster album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, with tracks compiled from three duo albums recorded between 1977 and 1980 by Swedish producer Frank HedmanFind albums by this artist, all sadly never reissued on CD. The album presents eighteen tracks, most of which are standards or improvisations of Folklore or Classical Music themes. Tracks 1 to 6 were taken from the album “But Three`s A CrowdFind albums with this title”, recorded in 1977 with American (resident in Sweden) bassist Red MitchellFind albums by this artist. Tracks 7 to 14 were taken from the album “A Song For YouFind albums with this title”, recorded in 1977 with Swedish pianist Bengt HallbergFind albums by this artist. Tracks 15 to 18 were taken from the album “With Malice Towards NoneFind albums with this title”, recorded in 1980 with Swedish organist Nils LindbergFind albums by this artist. The album is a wonderful testimony of Krog’s love of the duo setting, where she seems to feel very comfortable and is the format for many of her albums. The “Art of the Duo” is a perfect description of these tracks. She recorded additional album with these musicians over the years of course. Overall, this is brilliant music, which thanks to this reissue can be heard again, rather than disappear in the past. Krog has very few competitors as a Jazz vocalist, with her idiosyncratic approach and incredible feel, and her superb recorded legacy accumulated over the years is a true treasure chest. This is an absolute must to vocal Jazz enthusiasts.

Updated: 18/08/2023Posted: 18/08/2023

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ OSLO CALLING MEANTIME 14 (Barcode: 7051070000141) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008 This is an album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded with a Norwegian trio comprising of pianist Vigleik StoraasFind albums by this artist, bassist Bjorn AlterhaugFind albums by this artist and drummer Tom OlstadFind albums by this artist, collectively known as The Meantimes. Several guest appear on selected tracks, including British saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist and the legendary sound engineer Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, who was also an accomplished guitarist. The album presents twelve tracks, two of which are original songs by Krog, two others are songs co-written by Storaas and Krog and the rest are standards. The album is a wonderful testimony of Krog’s love of the vocal Jazz idiom, which always reflects her incredible talent and her superb interaction with other musicians. Her treatment of Jazz standards is absolutely unique and instantly recognizable, and she has been one of my favorite Jazz vocalists since as long as I can remember. Overall, this is brilliant music, which deserves to be heard. Krog has very few competitors as a Jazz vocalist, with her idiosyncratic approach and incredible feel, and her superb recorded legacy accumulated over the years is a true treasure chest. This is an absolute must to vocal Jazz enthusiasts.

Updated: 19/08/2023Posted: 19/08/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG ~ WHERE YOU AT? ENJA 9144 (Barcode: 767522914429) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003 This is an album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded in NY with a fabulous American trio: pianist Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist, bassist David FinckFind albums by this artist and drummer Billy DrummondFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, three of which were written by Kuhn, four were composed by John SurmanFind albums by this artist with lyrics by Krog and the remaining four are standards. Krog recorded several albums with Kuhn and they love to work together since many years, as this lovely album clearly shows. Kuhn is a highly sensitive accompanist and a virtuoso pianist, which can be heard on his numerous recordings, but his collaborations with Krog always offer a wonderful atmosphere of mutual respect and love. Krog has been one of my favorite vocalist since decades and her idiosyncratic style and approach are absolutely unique. She combines the Jazz vocal tradition with modern and sometimes even Avant-Garde approach, especially when recording with Surman. Overall, this is a fabulous classic Jazz vocal album, perfectly sung and played by fabulous musicians, with great mixture of original material and standards. Krog recorded quite a few albums during her career, and there is not even one of those, that does not make my day on a cloudy day. Love you, Karin!

Updated: 14/08/2023Posted: 14/08/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / BERGEN BIG BAND / JOHN SURMAN ~ SEAGULL GRAPPA 4212 (Barcode: 7033662042128) ~ NORWAY ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005 This is a brilliant album by Norwegian vocalist / songwriter Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, accompanied by the excellent Bergen Big BandFind albums by this artist, conducted by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who also adds a few soli on several of the tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, two of which are written by Krog, five are co-written by Krog and Surman, and the rest are Jazz standards. The arrangements are mostly by Surman, but four of them are by another Brit (well, born in Canada) John WarrenFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded by my Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, and offers a spectacular sound quality. The album presents two separate European Jazz collaborations, the first between Surman and the Bergen Big Band, which also produced the superb “Another SkyFind albums with this title” album from 2014, also released on the GrappaFind albums on this label label, and the second between Krog and Surman, which started in 1976 and produced a long series of albums created oved many decades. Considering the fact that Krog and Surman are two of my all-time favorite musicians, and the Jazz Big Band is one of my favorite Jazz idioms, this album is for me an absolute delight from start to finish. Krog, as I have already stated many times previously, is one of the finest interpreters of Jazz standards, as well as a great songwriter of her own right, and she has been active since the mid-1960s, i.e. for almost six decades now, never singing a wrong note since, and her idiosyncratic vocals are one of European Jazz best known secrets. Surman is of course a true Jazz Master in every respect and his accumulated achievements are second to none. The Bergen Big Band is also a great representative of the European orchestral music approach, and all of their recordings are definitely worth being checked out for lovers of that particular Jazz sub-genre. Active since 1993, it is one of best European Big Bands around, featuring some of the best musicians in the country and often inviting guests from abroad. Overall, this a brilliant album, which combines Big Band Jazz and Jazz vocals, which can hardly get any better. It showcases the unique talents of Krog and Surman, here also as arranger / conductor, in short a splendid display of talent and virtuosity. Absolutely breathtaking!

Updated: 27/01/2024Posted: 27/01/2024

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / DEXTER GORDON ~ SOME OTHER SPRING MEANTIME 10 (Barcode: 7051070000103) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1970 Released: 2000 This is a reissue / remaster of the fourth album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded in 1970 with a fabulous quartet: American saxophonist Dexter GordonFind albums by this artist and pianist Kenny DrewFind albums by this artist (both resident in Scandinavia at the time), Danish bassist Niels-Henning Orsted PedersenFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Espen RudFind albums by this artist. The original album presented eight tracks, all standards, and this edition adds one outtake and three alternate takes as a bonus tracks. The music was recorded by the legendary Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist at his Rainbow Studio. This album is a wonderful document of the early days of Krog’s career, with her idiosyncratic approach and style already well in place. It also documents the Scandinavian Jazz scene in the late-1960s, which was developing rapidly, partly due to the fact that many American Jazz musicians settled in Scandinavia at the time, escaping the racist discrimination from which they suffered at home. Krog was always a sublime interpreter of the Great American Songbook, and her highly personal treatment of the standards was always absolutely unique, which is clearly evident on this early album. Of course the performances by the young Scandinavian players are also exceptional. Overall, this is a wonderful trip down the memory line, taking the listener over fifty years back in time to the steaming Scandinavian Jazz scene, which was exploding with talent and left a sublime legacy, which sounds as good today as it did then. For Jazz singers, this is a highly educational exposure of the Artistry of vocal Jazz.

Updated: 25/03/2024Posted: 17/09/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG & BENGT HALLBERG ~ CABIN IN THE SKY GAZELL 1112 (Barcode: 7393775111228) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011 This is an album by Norwegian Jazz vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and Swedish pianist Bengt HallbergFind albums by this artist, recorded in a duo setting at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks, ten of which are standards and two are original songs by Krog. Krog and Hallberg recorded a couple of albums as a duo in the past: “A Song For YouFind albums with this title” (1977) and “Two Of A KindFind albums with this title” (1982) and this recording made three decades later is a celebration of a long musical camaraderie between the two. Hallberg is a great pianist of course, but his skill as an accompanist is simply stunning. Despite the fact that the music spans many Jazz stylings, from Ragtime to Bebop, Hallberg feels perfectly comfortable for the entire duration and his sensibility towards Krog is absolutely stunning. Krog has been one of my favorite Jazz vocalists since many decades. She does not have any of the spectacular qualities that many Jazz vocalists offer, but she is a marvelous interpreter and her almost cabaret-like approach is often way more accurate and sensible than highly technical and virtuosic singer, who simply don’t get it despite their abilities. Overall, this is a marvelous duo album, and a perfect Jazz vocal display, which flows gently and intelligently from one song to another, like in a dream. The two old friends are perfect together, proving that age has nothing to do with it, if you really have to touch. This is a true gem from start to finish, like all the albums by Krog, and one that fits perfectly the gap in my collection. Warmly recommended!

Updated: 13/06/2023Posted: 13/06/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / STEVE KUHN ~ BREAK OF DAY MEANTIME 22 (Barcode: 7041880102227) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is a duo album by iconic Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and American pianist Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist recorded in the US. American saxophonist Eric AlexanderFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist guest, each on three different tracks. The album presents fourteen tracks, all of which are Jazz standards. Three of the tracks feature lyrics written by Krog. The music is a wonderful document of the rapport between Krog and Kuhn, which of course is present also on the other albums by the duo. The presence of the guests adds spark and glamour to the proceedings, but the duo offers everything needed to produce splendid Jazz just on their own of course. Krog’s vocals are always highly intelligent and unique and Kuhn is a true virtuoso, who is able to get the most out of the piano, even if he uses a limited number of notes. Together they manage to enchant with their intimacy and heartfelt delivery. Overall, this is a true gem of an album, which Jazz lovers should have a field day with. Brilliant piano technique and idiosyncratic vocals by one of the greatest European Jazz vocalists should be enough for everybody. Another great addition to the duo’s recorded legacy!

Updated: 11/05/2022Posted: 11/05/2022

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / STEVE KUHN ~ TOGETHER AGAIN GRAPPA 4247 (Barcode: 7033662042470) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006 This is a duo album by Norwegian Jazz vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and American Jazz pianist Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten songs, all classic Jazz standards. The music was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. During her long-lasting career Krog established close working relationships in several duo settings with top Jazz musicians, most notably with British saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist and Kuhn, which resulted in a series of wonderful duo recordings, of which this is a prime example. The wonderful, naked format of human voice accompanied just by acoustic piano is one of the purest and most pristine examples of making music, which although intimate and modest can become infinitely rich and deeply moving. Kuhn is of course one of the greatest accompanists out there, known for his work with Sheila JordanFind albums by this artist and other vocalists, and his playing is simply divine. Combined with the Krog’s warm voice and her idiosyncratic interpretations of the songs, the duo is able to move mountains and make even the toughest listeners to shed a proverbial tear. Kuhn’s deeply lyrical approach to melody and the wealth of his piano technique is extraordinary and every note produced by him on the piano is absolutely perfect, in tone, volume and relationship to the vocals. Overall, this is a masterful showcase of the piano / vocals Jazz idiom, perfect from the first note to the last, and deserving repeated listening sessions over time. When the world gets particularly gloomy and sad, this album might just be the last resort…

Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 29/08/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / MORTEN GUNNAR LARSEN ~ IN A RAG BAG MEANTIME 19 (Barcode: 7041880101923) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012 This is a lovely album by iconic Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and pianist Morten Gunnar LarsenFind albums by this artist, recorded live in Oslo. The album presents fourteen tracks, which are a tribute to Ragtime Jazz, five of which are compositions by Fats WallerFind albums by this artist, one is by Scott JoplinFind albums by this artist, one is an original by Larsen and the rest are by various other composers. Larsen is a renowned stride piano specialist with numerous recordings to his credit, and his playing is absolutely delightful. Krog is a universal Jazz vocalist and seems to feel perfectly at hope with early Jazz, as much as she does in Avant-Garde. Together they are just perfect, performing the music with panache and obvious feeling, which results in a delicious serving of nostalgic Jazz history, going back a Century of so. Of course Ragtime lost nothing of its joy and elegance and it is a pity it is so rarely performed these days. This album certainly proves that the loss is all ours. Overall, this is a true gem of an album, which Jazz lovers should have a field day with, if they truly love Jazz as much as they think. Brilliant piano technique and idiosyncratic vocals by one of the greatest European Jazz vocalists should be enough for everybody. What a joy!

Updated: 06/05/2022Posted: 06/05/2022

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / JOHN SURMAN ~ BLUESAND MEANTIME 09 (Barcode: 7051070000097) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999 This is wonderful duo album by Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British multi-instrumentalist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, one of many albums they recorded together since their first meeting on stage in 1978, mostly released on the ECMFind albums on this label label and MeantimeFind albums on this label Records, like this one, which is owned by Krog. The album presents twelve original compositions, co-credited to them both with lyrics by Krog. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. The music is a wonderful amalgam of Jazz, Blues, Electronics, Nordic moods and above else elegance and good taste, which results in a unique listening experience. Krog sings lyrics and uses electronic devices and loops and Surman as usual switches between soprano and baritone saxes, clarinets, piano and synthesizers, creating a rich tapestry of sounds and feelings. Each and every one of the compositions is a gem, combining Krog’s vocals with layers of instrumental improvisations by Surman, and although completely coherent as a whole the compositions present a diversity of musical capsules, each and every one as if originating in a different universe. Overall this is a masterly conceived and executed piece of music in the “Art of the Duo” idiom, which exemplifies the power of minimalism. In his work with Krog, Surman always displays a different personality than on his solo or ensemble works as a leader, showing the gentler, almost romantic facet of his musical charisma. For British Jazz enthusiasts, this album offers some of Surman’s best work, Norwegian Jazz fans need no introductions and the album is simply a sweet reminder of how superb music can become in hands if intelligent and highly talented musicians. Not to be missed and every bit as great as it was at the time of its release.

Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 13/04/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / JOHN SURMAN ~ CLOUD LINE BLUE MEANTIME 11 (Barcode: 7051070000110) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004 This is a reissue of the debut album by the fabulous duo of Norwegian vocalist / composer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded in London in 1976, with the participation of keyboardist Janet CookeFind albums by this artist and drummer Stu MartinFind albums by this artist. Surman composed or co-composed all the music with Krog and Martin and played a plethora of analog synthesizers in addition to playing saxophones. The album presents seven tracks, all featuring lyrics by Paul RowlandsFind albums by this artist. The music waited for another three years to be mixed, eventually done by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist in Oslo and released in 1979. The album was also released in Poland on the PoljazzFind albums on this label label. The music is absolutely stunning, completely unique and revolutionary, so much so, that listening to it today, forty-five years after it was recorded, I experienced goosebumps. Krog’s idiosyncratic vocals and vocalese and Surman’s improvisations, are completely inimitable. The most astounding quality of the music is its deeply melodic feel despite the Avant-Garde exterior, which in retrospect characterizes both Krog and Surman for the entire duration of their respective careers. I vividly remember hearing this music live at the time, as well as haring the duo several times over time, always being completely taken over by the magic they managed to create together. Some musicians are obviously destined to play together, creating a result far greater than just the sum of its parts. This album, and the further recordings by this duo, are all gems and deserve to be heard, especially since they are all absolutely timeless. It is great that Karen manages to reissue all her recordings on her MeantimeFind albums on this label label, keeping them alive, as they would have disappeared into the depth of the abyss of forgotten music, if it was up to the Major labels. This album remains to be a giant step in European Jazz and deserves an honorable place in every serious record collection!

Updated: 07/06/2021Posted: 07/06/2021

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / JOHN SURMAN ~ INFINITE PATHS MEANTIME 23 (Barcode: 7041880102326) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015 This is the fourth album by the iconic Jazz duo comprising of Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist. John’s son Ben SurmanFind albums by this artist added some electronic effects and aural layers and made the live recording of a concert in Oslo, which was later mastered by the legendary sound engineer Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, all original composition / improvisations by the duo. The music is absolutely stunning, moving between songs and improvisations and keeping a perfectly coherent musical atmosphere. The mixture of the Nordic climate and Surman’s highly ambient vistas, Krog’s idiosyncratic vocals and the electronically synthesized sounds works out perfectly, resulting in a wonderful flow of emotions, that is captivating and enchanting. Although highly improvised, the music maintains a highly melodic basis, which allows the listener to focus on the details without losing the thread and direction. In many respects this album revisits the early days of the Krog / Surman duo, which started some four decades earlier. Krog is definitely at her utmost best when improvising freely, which she does most of the time on this album. Overall, this is a brilliant example of the “Art of the Duo” idiom and one of the best albums in Krog’s long and impressive recorded legacy. Same goes for Surman of course, and his many fans will find him at his absolute top herein. European Jazz lovers should find this album absolutely essential piece of the puzzle!

Updated: 01/09/2021Posted: 01/09/2021

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KARIN KROG / JOHN SURMAN ~ SONGS ABOUT THIS AND THAT MEANTIME 20 (Barcode: 7041880102029) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013 This is the third album (well third under the duo moniker but they recorded together many times over the years) by the fabulous duo of Norwegian vocalist / composer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist. This time they are accompanied by Norwegian musicians: guitarist Bjorn KlakeggFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Ivar KolveFind albums by this artist, bassist Terje GeweltFind albums by this artist and drummer Tom OlstadFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, all co-composed by Krog and Surman. The music was recorded by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist at the Rainbow Studio in Oslo with the usual stunning sound quality. The music is wonderful, as always, but this time completely mainstream oriented. Krog sings the lyrics of the songs in a pretty straightforward manner, and Surman, who plays mostly baritone sax and bass clarinet, soloes beautifully, but conventionally, as do all the members of the band. For Krog and Surman followers this might come as a surprise, as their work together was mostly characterized by exploring the boundaries of the Jazz idiom. Having said that, this is still a most refined and wonderful musical experience, which offers a superb listening experience. All the instrumental performances are highly inspired and perfectly executed, and Krog’s idiosyncratic voice lost nothing of its beauty and charm over time, and she has few contenders as far as dramatic delivery is concerned. Overall the album is a beautiful gift of music, which is always welcome from these two great Artists. Back to the roots can be truly exciting, as this album convincingly proves!

Updated: 14/06/2021Posted: 14/06/2021

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KARIN KROG / JACOB YOUNG ~ WHERE FLAMINGOS FLY GRAPPA 4189 (Barcode: 7033662041893) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2001 Released: 2002 This is a wonderful duo album by Norwegian vocalist / songwriter Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and guitarist / composer Jacob YoungFind albums by this artist. They are supported on three tracks by the sublime bassist Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks, one of which was written by Krog, and the rest being Jazz standards. The album was produced by Karin’s Friend John SurmanFind albums by this artist and recorded by our Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, at his legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, and offers a spectacular sound quality. Karin and the young (at the time) Jacob, who was at the early stages of his career, met to record a few tunes together for the Norwegian Radio, after Karin realized that her great affinity for the “Art of the Duo” Jazz idiom never resulted in a recording with a guitarist earlier on. A couple of years later this recording of the entire duo project came to fruition, with spectacular results. Previously to this recording session Young released his 3rd album “GlowFind albums with this title”, which was a turning point of his career. The music is, as always, a terrific journey through Jazz standards in a unique way Krog interprets them, which is unlike anything else within the genre. Her incredible sensitivity in expressing the lyrics and play around with the melody makes her a phenomenon. Young turns out to be a highly amicable accompanist, with great sensitivity to her vocal and rhythmic idiosyncrasies, soloing sparingly. It is truly amazing to realize that there is nothing missing here and the vocals and delicate guitar sounds create a complete doze of musical delivery. Young remains perfectly within the supporting role, not trying to add even one unnecessary note or phrase, always assisting the vocals with exactly the right notes or chords. When Andersen joins the duo, his brilliant pulsations expand the sound impressively, but again not spoiling the intimacy if this session, proving again what a genius musician he is. Overall, this is another great gem in the long list of Krog’s recorded legacy, which includes some of the finest Norwegian, European and American instrumentalists, but always emphasizes her complete individuality and uniqueness. Her music has been a source of musical delight since many years back, and continues to be so to this very day. Thank you for that, my Lady!

Updated: 01/02/2024Posted: 01/02/2024

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NINA PEDERSEN ~ EYES WIDE OPEN LOSEN 184 (Barcode: 7090025831843) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017 This is the third album by Norwegian (resident in Rome) Jazz singer / songwriter Nina PedersenFind albums by this artist, accompanied by the excellent piano trio consisting of pianist Pierpaolo PrincipatoFind albums by this artist, bassist Marco LoddoFind albums by this artist and drummer Giampaolo ScatozzaFind albums by this artist. Trumpeter Aldo BassiFind albums by this artist plays on a couple of tunes and saxophonist Paolo InnarellaFind albums by this artist plays on another two tracks. The album presents eight songs, seven of which are originals (music and lyrics in English) by Pedersen and one is by the wonderful duo of John SurmanFind albums by this artist and Karin KrogFind albums by this artist. The original songs are all beautifully woven by their author, with superb melodic themes and intelligent lyrics. They are all standard quality and the album flows smoothly from start to finish like a collection of well known tunes, which of course is a rare quality. The piano trio and guests play fabulously, supporting the vocalist amicably and adding occasional solos, all perfectly suiting the music. Bassi is especially imaginative during his parts on the two songs and I wish he would have played for the entire duration of the album. Pedersen has a wonderfully mature, dark and enticing voice, in some respects similar to that of Karin Krog herself, who wrote a short comment for the album´s liner notes, with which I agree completely. This is one of those albums, which do not try to be spectacular even for a moment, but deliver exactly what is appropriate within its scope: wonderful songs and perfect execution, full of heartfelt emotion, honesty and great taste, creating a first class aesthetic experience. Very well done!

Updated: 06/11/2017Posted: 06/11/2017

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JOHN SURMAN ~ NORDIC QUARTET ECM 1553 (Barcode: 731452712028) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995 Breathtakingly beautiful album by British saxophone Giant John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded with Nordic (or rather Norwegian) friends: singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist and pianist Vigleik StoraasFind albums by this artist. Anybody familiar with Surman´s immense talent needs no introduction to his music, but this album is rather special in many respects and therefore uniquely interesting. The Norwegian partners fill this album with typical Scandinavian chilly atmosphere and the result is simply stunning. Rypdal, as usual, adds his ambient layers, Storaas delicately fills the spaces with his touch, but the true star of this album is my old friend Karin Krog, with her amazing vocal performances. Although little known outside her country, I´ve always considered her as one of the greatest female Jazz singers out there. Surman is of course brilliant, as always, both as a player and a composer (he composed and co-composed the majority of the music herein). This music works better in the heat of the day than a full-blast air conditioning unit! An absolute must!

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VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.29 POLSKIE RADIO 2061 (Barcode: 5907812245344) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1966 Released: 2017 This is the twenty-ninth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well. The tracks presented here were recorded live in October 1966 during the ninth Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw and are the first volume of a collection of tracks from that event. The first five tracks present a duo comprising of American (resident in Europe since the mid 1960s and until his death in 2002) pianist / composer Mal WaldronFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist Kurt LindgrenFind albums by this artist. They perform five original compositions by Waldron, which are a beautiful example of Waldron´s unique Blues based music, which characterized his output at the time. The intimate duo format is a prime example of the "Art Of The Duo", which emphasizes the telepathic communication between the duo members. The next track presents another duo, this time comprising of Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and Lindgren. They perform just one standard together, again showing the marvelous intimacy of the duo format and of course Garbarek´s early style, which is rarely heard on record and was captured here just before his debut recording session a month later. The next track presents yet another duo, this time comprising of Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and Waldron. They perform just one standard together, which showcases Krog´s early vocal style. She recorded her debut album a couple of years before her appearance in Warsaw and was about to record her second album ("Jazz MomentsFind albums with this title") with Garbarek a month later, which would be his debut recording session mentioned above. The last three tracks present a trio consisting of Krog, Garbarek and Lindgren and present three classic standards, one of which is also featured on the a.m. second album by Krog. The intimacy of these performances is simply brilliant and absolutely unique. The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.

Updated: 06/05/2017Posted: 05/05/2017

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