Record Reviews

AGA TAURA CONFAB / ENRICO RAVA ~ EL CONVIDADO SVART / MONDO 381 (Barcode: 6430065589419) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1975 Released: 2019 In June of 1975 Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist recorded his debut album for the prestigious German ECMFind albums on this label label, entitled "The Pilgrim And The StarsFind albums with this title", which upon its release later that year kick-started his solo career. The album was recorded with an international lineup of ECM stable musicians: American guitarists John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist (who also released his ECM debut the same year) and a marvelous Scandinavian rhythm section consisting of Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. A trumpet virtuoso and an exceptionally gifted composer, Rava established himself on the international scene during the entire decade earlier, playing and recording with the elite of Avant-Garde Jazz players of that period both in Europe and in America, which included Steve LacyFind albums by this artist, Roswell RuddFind albums by this artist, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, Don CherryFind albums by this artist, Argentinean Gato BarbieriFind albums by this artist (during his stint in Italy), Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and others. By the early 1970s Rava embraced a more melodic approach to Jazz and started to cooperate with Fusion musicians, a path common to many of his European contemporaries. This led to his participation in the recording of the seminal Jazz-Rock opera "Escalator Over The HillFind albums with this title" by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist as well as the recording of the little known album for the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label called "Katcharpari RavaFind albums with this title", where he played vis-à-vis Abercrombie and which, when first heard by ECM owner Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, led to inviting them both to record for ECM in the first place. What led Enrico Rava to take part in the recording of the obscure album you are holding in your hand, which took place in December of 1975 in Buenos Aires, the Capital of Argentina, you ask? Well it turns out Rava had some family in Buenos Aires, which he was visiting at the time and which is hardly surprising considering the fact that most of Argentina´s inhabitants are descendants of European ethnic groups, with more than 55% of them having Italian origins. Therefore being Italian and having family in Argentina is a highly probable outcome. Quite accidently, Rava already visited Buenos Aires almost a decade earlier, when playing there with the Steve Lacy quartet. A performance by that quartet recorded in Buenos Aires in November of 1966 was released as the album "The Forest And The ZooFind albums with this title" on the ESPFind albums on this label label. The rest of the story, however, is pure Jazz "improvisation". Upon learning that Rava is in town, local Jazz aficionados swiftly decided to size the day and hook him up with local musician and record an album. It is difficult to know today if Rava and the Argentineans realized that he was already under ECM contract and they needed to ask Eicher to give them permission to make this recording, which was highly unlikely he would. But considering South American attitude towards rules and regulations nobody probably cared too much about it, which of course in retrospect should make us thankful. The team selected to accompany Rava, named as "Aga Taura ConfabFind albums by this artist", included three Argentinean Jazz musicians: pianist Fernando GelbardFind albums by this artist, bassist Adalberto CevascoFind albums by this artist and drummer Nestor AstaritaFind albums by this artist and an Argentinean Folk percussionist Farias GómezFind albums by this artist, who also contributed vocalese parts. Although less experienced and with no international exposure at the time, they stood their ground formidably and performed alongside Rava without any inferiority complex. Of the five tunes on the album, four are performed by the quintet, where Gelbard plays the Fender Rhodes electric piano, and one is a duet consisting of Rava and Gelbard, who plays acoustic piano. Not surprisingly Rava´s performances are the absolute pinnacle of the session, encompassing different styles and approaches moving between melodic lyricism and Free Form explorations. He knowingly pays tribute to his idols: Miles Davis and Chet Baker, but avoids copying any explicit phrasing and crafts his distinctly own voice. The spontaneous recording session lasted for a few hours, just long enough to capture five tracks totaling in about forty two minutes of music. The sound quality of the recording turned out to be better than one might expect, with clear, crispy tone and excellent separation, which suited the music perfectly. The music includes a Rava original, which appears only on this album, a standard, a composition by the Brazilian composer João DonatoFind albums by this artist, a composition by Argentinean saxophonist / composer Horacio BorraroFind albums by this artist and finally a composition by the quintet´s percussionist Farias Gómez – a mixed bag which offers a strong World Music influence and plenty of opportunities for the musicians to show their chops. In retrospect this is definitely a piece of music that deserves to be revisited, not only for nostalgic reasons, but primarily as a historical document of the period, as well as proof of the fact that music knows no boundaries. Due to its rarity the original LP release is a highly sought after collectors item to Jazz aficionados all over the world, not only connoisseurs of Enrico Rava, but also enthusiasts of early Jazz-World Fusion. Side Note The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork. I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years. The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.

Updated: 22/05/2020Posted: 22/05/2020

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

PETER ERSKINE ~ AS IT WAS ECM 2490/93 (Barcode: 602547558329) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1992 - 1997 Released: 2016 This wonderful Box Set contains the four albums by the American drummer / composer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist recorded by his trio which included British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are: "You Never KnowFind albums with this title" (ECM 1497) recorded 1992, "Time BeingFind albums with this title" (ECM 1532) recorded 1993, "As It IsFind albums with this title" (ECM 1594) recorded 1995 and "JuniFind albums with this title" (ECM 1657) recorded 1997. The music was mostly composed by the trio members. All these albums were recorded at the magnificent Rainbow Studio in Oslo by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. Erskine, one of the most versatile and open-minded American drummers, who feels at ease in many diverse musical environments, has a long history of cooperating with European musicians, which strongly influenced his approach and brought him closer to the European aesthetics, which is strongly present on these recordings. Piano trios led by the drummer are a relative rarity in Jazz history, but as these albums demonstrate they can be every bit as excellent as those led by pianists. These three Master musicians create superb music together, in the best tradition of the classic piano trio, strongly emphasizing European approach to melody and improvisation, full of elegance and lyricism. The music is all melody based and "well behaved", but can hardly be considered as mainstream, thanks to Taylor´s wonderful performances and rhythmic openness carried out by the rhythm section. The piano parts played by Taylor are a striking evidence of his genius and the fact that he is no longer with us underlines the importance of this reissue, as the individual albums are of course no longer available. But the virtuosic bass parts by Danielsson and fabulous drumming by Erskine are equally worth being heard again of course. As usual with this "Old And New Masters" series, the individual CDs are housed in plain white carton sleeves – a matter of elegance or budget? – and the booklet includes a very long background article, this time by respected critic John KelmanFind albums by this artist, which I seriously doubt many people have the stamina to read these days. Overall this is an absolute must have for all Jazz piano trio lovers and of course British Jazz enthusiasts, who cherish every keystroke by John Taylor, like yours truly. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 11/07/2019Posted: 11/07/2019

CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

FASOLI / GOODRICK / DANIELSSON / OXLEY ~ BODIES AZZURRA 1327 (Barcode: 8028980739323) ~ ITALY ~ Avant-Garde Jazz Recorded: 1989 - 1990 Released: 2018 This is a reissue of an album by an international Jazz quartet led by Italian saxophonist / composer Claudio FasoliFind albums by this artist, with American guitarist Mick GoodrickFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by Fasoli. The music is a wonderful example of modern European Jazz, based on wonderful melodic themes and performed with a lot of Freedom and space for individual expression within the quartet setting. All four members of the quartet are true Masters of their instruments and have gained a lot of experience playing with top Jazz musicians for many years. Although Goodrick comes from the US, his approach to Jazz has always been closer to European Jazz that most of his compatriots, and his rapport with the three Europeans is completely natural and open-minded. The presence of Oxley is especially interesting here, both in the role of a “traditional” drummer and as a great innovator, playing avant-garde oriented parts, which by the time this album was recorded was his main area of interest. Any way one approaches his contributions here, those are absolutely stellar of course. Goodrick uses the guitar synthesizer in addition to electric guitar, which adds to the unique sound of the quartet. Danielsson is the absolute anchor for the music here and his brilliant pulsation keep the music afloat. Fasoli is excellent, as always, but his ability to weave the exquisite melodic themes is especially important herein to give the album a coherent direction. Overall, this is a little known gem, which deserves to be discovered, offering brilliant musicianship and highly advanced approach to the Jazz ensemble as a cooperative unit, able to make music that makes sense even when the traditional framework is almost completely abandoned. This is a great addition to any serious European Jazz record collection.

Updated: 24/06/2023Posted: 24/06/2023

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

JAN GARBAREK ~ DANSERE ECM 2146/48 (Barcode: 602527551784) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2012 This wonderful Box Set contains three early albums by the legendary Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, the first of which was recorded by a quintet with guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist, pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Arild AndersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist and the other two were recorded by a quartet with Stenson, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Christensen, recorded in early 1970s and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "SartFind albums with this title" (ECM 1015) recorded in 1971, "Witchi-Tai-ToFind albums with this title" (ECM 1041) recorded in 1973 and "DansereFind albums with this title" (ECM 1075) recorded 1975. These albums are magnificent examples of early modern Scandinavian Jazz, which after years of copying American Jazz finally emerged as a new identity, leaving the tradition where it respectfully belongs. These six young (at that time) musicians emerged in time as some of the most creative and influential Jazz figures, producing groundbreaking music and expanding the realms of Jazz way beyond their original scope. They also defined the Scandinavian Sound, which to this day is a strong characteristic many recordings by Scandinavian musicians and some other trying to imitate them. This music lost absolutely nothing of its original charm and fascination and sounds every bit as enchanting as it did at the time of the recording. Listening to it again after quite a few years makes a very strong impression and brings on waves of nostalgia to the times when music was constantly breaking new ground and was full of wonderful surprises. This is definitely worth re-visiting and re-discovering! Brilliant stuff! Side Note: These albums are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

KEITH JARRETT ~ BELONGING ECM 1050 (Barcode: 042282911520) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1974 Released: 2000 During the 1970s, the legendary US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was leading a "double life", recording in parallel as a leader of two quartets: The recordings of the US quartet were released on ImpulseFind albums on this label and those of the Scandinavian quartet on ECMFind albums on this label, a relatively new (at the time) small European (German) label, which in time was destined to become the world´s leading record label associated with the most important musicians active in the late 20th Century. This album was the first recording of the Scandinavian quartet, which consisted of Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Jarrett explored completely two different musical idioms with his two quartets: The US quartet, firmly based in the US Jazz tradition, boldly expanded the borders of the genre, whereas the Scandinavian quartet plunged head-on into the European Jazz universe, which was revolutionizing the Jazz language by moving away from the restriction set by American Jazz and amalgamating previously untouched musical areas, which included, among others, the European Classical tradition and Folklore. Jarrett was amongst the first US Jazz musicians to discover the new universe and crossed over the Atlantic pond to take part in the "new thing" without hesitation. For this album Jarrett composed a set of brilliant composition, completely different from his work in the US, and these composition performed by the Scandinavian quartet emerged as one of the greatest moments of his career. The album is simply stunning, with beautifully melodic, contemplative and atmospheric music, which charms the listener immediately, basically transforming him into a new universe. The "Scandinavian sound" of this album was about to become a point of reference for future recordings and an integral part of the "ECM sound", forever associated with the label´s output. A work of pure genius, this is an essential and everlasting piece of heavenly music!

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

KEITH JARRETT ~ PERSONAL MOUNTAINS ECM 1382 (Barcode: 042283736122) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1979 Released: 1989 This monumental album is the only live recording by the legendary Scandinavian Quartet led by US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, with Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Starting with the 1974 album "BelongingFind albums with this title" this quartet recorded a series of brilliant albums released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which to a large extent defined the "Scandinavian sound" as well as the "ECM sound", but also revolutionized the entire Jazz idiom. Unrestricted by the American Jazz limitations, Jarrett was able to discover new musical universes, which he did with passion and determination, always excelling himself both as a player and a composer. This album was recorded at the absolute artistic peak of the quartet, which after playing and recording together for half a decade, developed truly telepathic unity and perfect harmony. Although released only a decade after it was recorded, this album is a brilliant "time capsule", which remains a source of admiration and inspiration. Absolutely brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

KEITH JARRETT ~ SLEEPER ECM 2290/91 (Barcode: 602537055708) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1979 Released: 2012 This album contains the recording of the April 1979 Tokyo concert by the pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and his European quartet with saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist, which was recorded some 23 years before the date of its release. It comprises of seven original compositions by Jarrett, spread over two CDs with a total playing time close to two hours. The sonic quality of this live recording is breathtaking and considering that the quartet was at that time at the absolute artistic peak having just released the studio album "Personal MountainsFind albums with this title", the album is simply an icon of contemporary music, Jazz and way beyond. It makes no sense to repeat statements about Jarrett and his quartet and their music, since so much has already been written on the subject. Obviously this is some of the best music ever created on this planet and an absolute "must hear" for every person, who is a true a music lover. Although recorded almost a quartet of a century ago, this music stays completely timeless and even more relevant today than at the time it was recorded, considering the state of music today. This release makes one wonder how much more music is stored in the ECMFind albums on this label vaults and if keeping it hidden from the audiences is moral? Of course there are economic considerations involved, which raises the question as to this release´s full price status; after all it is an archival release, with the material already recorded and no new investment considered necessary, except for the manufacturing and copyright costs? Times are difficult for everybody, and even more so for music lovers, and if people can´t afford to buy this album they will, yet again, obtain an illegal download. An error of judgment, as far as I can tell, by a label that is usually a beacon of excellence. But earthly considerations aside, this is Godly music and should be treated as such. Ergo, essential stuff!

CD 2 Slipcase Essential 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

CHARLES LLOYD ~ FISH OUT OF WATER ECM 1398 (Barcode: 042284108829) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1989 Released: 1990 This is the first album on the iconic German ECMFind albums on this label label by American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with the dreamy Scandinavian rhythm section comprising of pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. This, the CD version of the album, includes one bonus track not included on the LP version, totaling in seven original compositions, all by Lloyd. The music offers a set of melodic, bluesy and wistful compositions, which spiritually are much way closer to the European / Nordic Jazz usually performed by the Scandinavian musicians taking part in this recording than what one might expect form an American Jazz musician, so deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition. But Lloyd was never a typical American Jazz musician and his exposure to European Jazz music and musicians during his career as well as his interest in World Music already proved that he can be quite unexpected and not following any particular trends. The album´s mellow and melancholic tunes flow gently in the air, caressing the listener´s ear, splendidly performed by the quartet members. Lloyd´s soloing is beautifully fluid and tender. Bobo´s piano parts are in full harmony with the leader´s melodic approach and his soloing takes the music towards more spacey planes. The bass and drums, which have a limited straightforward rhythmic role in this setting, ornament the music with pulsation and accents, always perfectly suited with the melodic flow. The album was, not surprisingly, received quite coldly by American critics and audiences, which at the time (late 1980s / early 1990s) approached the "ECM sound" with extreme caution and called it by the derogatory term "Euro Jazz", which proves that America was then still completely stuck in the conservative / retarded Jazz approach. Although in the three decades that passed since that time ECM managed to crack the American Jazz establishment, and even became somewhat fashionable, sadly partly due to the label´s conformism, most Americans still don´t get the quintessence of European Jazz. Although this album offers very little innovation or groundbreaking musical exploration, in retrospect it remains a solid mainstream statement, full of great melodies and virtuosic performances, which should please most contemporary Jazz connoisseurs. It lost nothing of its charm over time and probably will never do so, and since it is rather sadly forgotten today, my recommendation is to revisit it – satisfaction guaranteed! Although it is very difficult to get hold of lately, it was reissued by ECM as part of the "Old And New Masters Series", as one of the first five albums Lloyd recorded for ECM, combined in the Charles Lloyd "QuartetsFind albums with this title" Box Set.

Updated: 06/08/2019Posted: 06/08/2019

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ INTERFACE SONET 963 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 1987 This is an album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, who left Poland in the late 1970s and lived first in NY and later moved to Toronto, Canada. This album, recorded in Sweden, on which Makowicz is accompanied by one of the most celebrated European rhythm sections: Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist, presents eight original compositions, all by Makowicz. The album is a wonderful testimony both of the technical brilliance of Makowicz as a pianist and his superb talents as a composer. His seemingly endless arpeggios and other impressive ornamentations are a continuous joy to the listener and the wonderful melodies float one after another with ease and charm. The rhythm section obviously enjoys this session as much as the leader and both musicians support him amicably and elegantly. Sadly this album managed to pass under the radar of most Polish Jazz fans and is today quite difficult to find. I definitely recommend getting a copy as long as it is still possible, as no Polish Jazz discography is complete without this album!

Updated: 14/07/2017Posted: 14/07/2017

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ALBERT MANGELSDORFF ~ THREE ORIGINALS MPS 731451921322 (Barcode: 731451921322) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1975 - 1980 Released: 1993 This is a reissue / remaster of three iconic albums by the Godfather of modern German Jazz, trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist. All three albums were recorded for and released by the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label and all were produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. I had the pleasure to be in the studio where the first album was recorded and at the Berlin Jazz Days venue where the second album was recorded. All three albums were recorded in a trio setting: trombone / bass / drums. The albums are: “The Wide PointFind albums with this title”, recorded in 1975 with Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and American drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist. “Trilogue - Live!Find albums with this title”, recorded in 1976 with American bassist Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist and drummer Alphonse MouzonFind albums by this artist. “Albert Live In MontreuxFind albums with this title”, recorded in 1980 with French bassist Jean-Francois Jenny-ClarkFind albums by this artist and American drummer Ronald Shannon JacksonFind albums by this artist. The music is absolutely stellar from start to finish and Mangelsdorff’s exceptional talent as musician, improviser and innovator is fully exposed here. Mangelsdorff proved that there are no limits to any instrument, only to human imagination. These intimate trios are a great display of Free Jazz / Improvised Music at their absolute best, not to mention the exposure of the trombone as a solo instrument. Mangelsdorff’s contribution to the development of modern German / European Jazz was absolutely crucial at the early post WWII years, with an independent view of the Jazz Artform, quite separate from the American tradition. The privilege of meeting Albert Mangelsdorff and his brother Emil MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and spending time with them is a worm memory, which I cherish to this day. Overall, this is a brilliant package of three great albums on 2 CD, which holds some great performances by superb musicians, all of which, except Danielsson, are no longer with us. This music is an absolute must an any comprehensive collection of modern European Jazz and Improvised Music. Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 07/04/2023

CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ENRICO RAVA ~ THE PILGRIM AND THE STARS ECM 1063 (Barcode: 602517758544) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008 This was the first album on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist, one of the most important representatives of modern European Jazz. A trumpet virtuoso and an exceptionally gifted composer, Rava established himself on the international scene by the late 1960s / early 1970s, playing mostly with the elite of Avant-Garde players of that period, both in Europe and in America. Later on Rava returned to more melodic approach via a stint with Fusion, a path similar to many of his young European contemporaries. This brilliant album presents him in a quartet setting with US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The music moves freely between freely improvised passages and melodic interludes, with the overall sound close to Fusion due to Abercrombie´s electric guitar. Full of fire and passion, this is a prime example of the musical climate at the time and in retrospective the music lost absolutely nothing of its strength and beauty. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ LITANIA – MUSIC OF KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ECM 1636 (Barcode: 731453755123) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997 Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Anybody familiar with the history of European Jazz is of course aware of the fact that Stanko was a member of the early modern Polish Jazz group led by his Mentor pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, one of world´s most important Jazz personalities, a Godfather of Polish Jazz and a phenomenal composer, in retrospect perhaps one of the greatest composers in Jazz history. Stanko´s musical personality was obviously formed and shaped by his association with Komeda, a fact that he often openly admits. Although Stanko occasionally paid homage to Komeda on his recordings over the years, it was only a matter of time until Stanko would produce a full-scope project as a tribute to Komeda´s music (and Komeda the man), and this is it. Stanko carefully arranged a series of composition by Komeda, ranging from his early works to his latest ones, and presents them here, performed by a septet comprising of Scandinavian musicians. Of course this is not a coincidence, as Komeda´s music was first recognized and acknowledged as exceptional outside his native country in Scandinavia (Sweden in particular), Poland´s northern neighbors, where Komeda performed during his lifetime, played and recorded with local musician and befriended many of them. The lineup includes Swedish saxophonists Bernt ResengrenFind albums by this artist (a veteran player of Komeda´s generation) and Joakim MilderFind albums by this artist, pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist, and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist (present on three tracks only). Since I´ve already written extensively about Komeda´s music, I will only say that these performances manage both to preserve the original beauty and depth of it, as well as transform is successfully into the present Jazz idiom, with grace, intelligence and deep respect. The performances are stellar from start to finish, the solos breathtaking, the rhythm session imaginative, yet solid like a rock – in other words this is perfect in every sense one can associate with music. This is a worthy and fitting tribute to the great Genius by the best and most sensitive musicians around and an absolute must in any music library, regardless of genre preferences. Beyond essential!

CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend

JOHN TAYLOR ~ ANGEL OF THE PRESENCE CAM JAZZ 7778 (Barcode: 8024709777829) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005 This is the debut album by the last trio led by British Jazz pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist with Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and British drummer Martin FranceFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight pieces, four composed by Taylor and two each by Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded "live in the studio" at the fabulous Bauer Studios in Ludwigsburg and offers a sublime sound quality. The trio recorded four albums between 2004 and 2006, which are all breathtakingly beautiful and constitute a pinnacle of Taylor´s recording career in the last period of his life ending with his premature death in 2015. The music is a classic example of Jazz piano trio mastery, which has but a few equals in the Century long history of Jazz music. Just a few other great trios managed to find a perfect balance between the piano and the rhythm section, like the one offered here. With each and every note perfectly audible and perfectly uttered, the music becomes a flux of emotional and intellectual stimulation of the highest possible level. Taylor´s playing was always a fountain of lyricism, and with age his touch of the keyboard become somewhat more sparing as if each note meant everything there was to say at a given moment. Of course the trio became a perfect vehicle as a result of common respect and telepathic understanding between all three members, becoming way more than just the sum of its ingredients. Danielsson and France become natural extensions of Taylor´s musical personality, and the unison proves to be unbeatable. The choice of material reflects Taylor´s lifelong friendships with Wheeler and Swallow and their common creative legacy well documented on their recordings together, which of course are highly recommended. Overall this is one of the finest Jazz piano trio recordings, not only in Taylor´s discography, but in Jazz history in general, which means it truly is an indispensable ingredient of any serious music collection. Absolutely essential!

Updated: 05/09/2020Posted: 05/09/2020

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

JOHN TAYLOR ~ GIULIA`S THURSDAYS CAM JAZZ 7847 (Barcode: 8052405140463) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2012 This is the final of four albums recorded by British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and his last trio with Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and British drummer Martin FranceFind albums by this artist for the Italian CAM JazzFind albums on this label label. Although recorded at the wonderful Bauer Studios in Ludwigsburg in 2006, it was released only six years later, preceded by "Angel Of The PresenceFind albums with this title", "WhirlpoolFind albums with this title" and "Requiem For A DreamerFind albums with this title". The album is very unusual, since instead of Taylor playing his own compositions or compositions by his fellow Jazz musicians, this time he offers his interpretations of music composed by the wonderful Italian cinematic composer Carlo RustichelliFind albums by this artist. The albums presents nine pieces, eight being themes used in Italian films and one in a TV series, which gave the album its title, all composed by Rustichelli. The highly romantic, lyrical music suits Taylor perfectly and the trio´s treatments are superb examples of the classic Jazz piano trio Artistry. Although Taylor was equally capable of exploring more adventurous ground, his tone and delicate touches on the keyboard are completely unique and accompanied by these two first class musicians the music is able to soar high and far also within the melodic environment. Taylor´s untimely death in 2015 deprived all British / European Jazz lovers of one of its greatest talents, the only consolation being his relatively extensive recording legacy both as a leader and a sideman, of which this album is a prime example. For the many connoisseurs of Taylor´s music this album is an essential addition to their collection, but every Jazz piano trio lover, British or otherwise, should find this absolutely irresistible. A Holy Grail of the genre, if there ever was one…

Updated: 18/10/2020Posted: 18/10/2020

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JOHN TAYLOR ~ REQUIEM FOR A DREAMER CAM JAZZ 7834 (Barcode: 8052405140111) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2008 Released: 2011 This is an album by British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist recorded with his last trio with Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and British drummer Martin FranceFind albums by this artist, on this album expanded to a quartet with the addition of the British saxophonist Julian ArguellesFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the legendary Bauer Studios in Ludwigsburg and although recorded in 2008 was only released in 2011. The album presents a seven-part suite composed by Taylor. The music, commissioned in 2007, was debuted and then recorded a year later. It is based on Taylor´s admiration of the works by American Science-Fiction author Kurt VonnegutFind albums by this artist, with the titles of the suite´s parts referencing to various works by Vonnegut, as described by Taylor in the album´s liner notes. The music, as expected, is a marvelous showcase of Taylor´s idiosyncratic compositional abilities, which have been his trademark for the duration of his entire career. A superb symbiosis of Romanticism, unique approach to Jazz and marvelous sense of harmony were always present within his music, which he, luckily for his followers, created prolifically over the years for his own recordings but also for many other Jazz musicians, British and others. Taylor´s death in 2015 was a devastating blow not only to the British Jazz community, but to the worldwide circle of Jazz lovers, as his presence on any recording was always a seal of the highest quality achievable. The Taylor / Danielsson / France trio recorded three additional albums between 2004 and 2006: "Angel Of The PresenceFind albums with this title", "WhirlpoolFind albums with this title" and "Giulia`s ThursdaysFind albums with this title", all of which are also absolutely marvelous and worth having. Overall this is an absolute must in any serious music collection and a most enjoyable listening experience, which can be repeated time after time with no fear of disappointment. It is unbelievable that it´s been five years since John left us in the void…

Updated: 03/07/2020Posted: 03/07/2020

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VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.31 POLSKIE RADIO 2076 (Barcode: 5907812244149) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1966 Released: 2018 This is the thirty-first 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 third volume of a collection of tracks from that event. The first four tracks present the American violinist / vocalist Stuff SmithFind albums by this artist, accompanied by an ad hoc trio which included Czech (at that time) pianist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Kurt LindgrenFind albums by this artist and Italian drummer Franco ManzecchiFind albums by this artist. The quartet performs four standards and the entire set is rather unimpressive to say the least. Smith died shortly after this appearance and these ware among his last recordings. The next track presents a quartet led by Swedish trombonist Eje ThelinFind albums by this artist with French saxophonist Barney WilenFind albums by this artist (mistakenly listed as Wilen Barney), Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist (misspelled as Danielsen) and American drummer Billie BrooksFind albums by this artist. The quartet performs one lengthy (almost half an hour long) just about entirely improvised piece of Free Jazz, which at the time was considered quite Avant-Garde, but portrays the rapid development of European Jazz at the time, catching up with the Free Jazz developments in the US. The next track presents a quartet co-led by two USSR Jazz musicians: guitarist Nicolai GrominFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Georgy GaranianFind albums by this artist, with bassist Adolf SatanowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Aleksander GoretkinFind albums by this artist (all the Russian names are misspelled). The quartet performs one original composition by Gromin, kept in the mainstream Jazz idiom. The next and last and most interesting track presents a Polish / Czech quintet comprising of trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Jan Hammer, bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz GierlowskiFind albums by this artist. The quintet performs one original composition by Stanko, brilliant and typical of the era, which is an absolute cherry on top of the entire album and reflects the strength of the Polish Jazz scene at the time. 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: 12/04/2019Posted: 01/05/2018

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend