Record Reviews
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  | PAUL BLEY ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1027 (Barcode: 8052405141064) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 - 1994 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set collects all the recordings by legendary American (Canadian by birth) pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist released the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. The set includes ten albums (one not listed on the box´s packaging and subsequently explained as a bonus album) featuring various recordings by Bley as a leader or co-leader over a span of twelve years (1983–1994) made alongside the top Jazz players active in the 1980s and 1990s and is therefore a superb document of the era.
Bley (born 1932), one of my favorite musicians of all times, was one of the pioneers of Free Jazz in the late 1950s, and continues to be a most creative and innovative figure on the American Jazz scene, although he is less active lately, no doubt due to his age. His approach to piano was always extraordinarily unique and just a few notes are usually enough to recognize his playing. In his life he released over a hundred albums, which featured the crème de la crème of Jazz musician of the last seven decades.
Bley was always a very intimate musician and clearly preferred solo, duos or trios than bigger lineups. Of the ten albums included here, one is a solo album, four are duo albums, three are trio albums, and the last two are quartet albums. The participating musicians include drummers: George Cross McDonaldFind albums by this artist, Barry AltschulFind albums by this artist, Paul MotianFind albums by this artist and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, bassists: Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist, Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist, Red MitchellFind albums by this artist, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and Furio Di CastroFind albums by this artist, guitarists John ScofieldFind albums by this artist and John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, and finally clarinetists / saxophonists Jimmy GuiffreFind albums by this artist and Keshavan MaslakFind albums by this artist.
This music is an absolute must to all Jazz enthusiasts, and the fact that it is available again is pure joy. Bley is a genius composer and instrumentalist and his legacy is well worth to be preserved and studied by the new generation of Jazz musicians.
Remastered, mini-sleeved and with a great bargain price – this Box Set is an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 05/05/2020Posted: 26/12/2015 | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY / GARY PEACOCK / PAUL MOTIAN ~ WHEN WILL THE BLUES LEAVE
ECM 2642 (Barcode: 602577404238) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2019
This is an archival live album by the Jazz trio led by the iconic pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded during the tour following the release of their studio album “Not Two, Not OneFind albums with this title”, which was their first get-together after thirty-five years, since they recorded the 1964 session released on ECMFind albums on this label as “Paul Bley With Gary PeacockFind albums with this title” in 1970. The album presents eight tracks, five of which are original compositions by Bley, one is by Peacock, one is by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist and finally one is a standard.
Despite the fact that Bley is considered as an intrinsic part of the American Avant-Garde / Improvised Music / Free Jazz scene, his music always includes a deep melodic layer and an almost romantic tenderness, which keeps him apart from the aggressiveness / rowdiness, which usually characterizes these genres beyond the pond. Therefore, listening to music played by Bley is always a deeply moving experience, which involves aesthetic values and a rare emotional involvement.
This brilliant trio is ideal for Bley’s music in every respect, not only because the rhythm section matches his skills and emotions in every way, since Peacock and Motion are extraordinary musicians, and supremely sensitive partners. Every album featuring Peacock’s virtuosic bass performances is a guaranteed masterpiece, and there are literally dozens of albums he plays on.
Overall, this is a superb Jazz piano trio album, which although presenting quite complex music, should be accessible to a wide range of true Jazz lovers. The performances are absolutely marvelous, the sound quality is superb and the total experience is unforgettable.
| | Updated: 19/11/2024Posted: 19/11/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAKOB BRO / JOE LOVANO ~ ONCE AROUND THE ROOM: A TRIBUTE TO PAUL MOTIAN
ECM 2747 (Barcode: 602445994908) ~ DENMARK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022
This is an album by Danish guitarist Jakob BroFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist, recorded in a highly unusual septet setting with three bassists: American Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and Thomas MorganFind albums by this artist and Danish Anders ChristensenFind albums by this artist, and two drummers: American Joey BaronFind albums by this artist and Spanish Jorge RossyFind albums by this artist. The album presents six tracks, two each by Bro and Lovano, one by American drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, to whom the album is dedicated, and finally one co-credited to all seven participating musicians.
The music is completely free spirited, mostly improvised with very little melodic continuity. It is mostly about atmosphere and despite the fact that it is performed by obviously highly talented musicians, sounds to me quite estranged and cold. It sadly represents the many ECMFind albums on this label albums, that despite the high potential completely fail to deliver anything worth mentioning.
Overall, for me this album says very little, and is one of those records that I continued to listen to until it was finished only from the respect I feel towards the musicians, never to return to it again.
| | Updated: 14/01/2025Posted: 14/01/2025 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARILYN CRISPELL ~ AMARYLLIS
ECM 1742 (Barcode: 044001340024) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is the second album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the great trio of US pianist / composer Marilyn CrispellFind albums by this artist with legendary bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and no less legendary drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. This time the music is all composed by the trio members (except for one track) and some of it is actually on the spot composed slow pieces improvised in the studio during the recording. Crispell is, as always, very introvert and secretive, with a minimalistic approach which draws the listener to become a part of the creative process while listening to the music. The music is very moving, with both the better known and the spontaneous pieces being equally enthralling but it requires attentive listening and involvement. Satisfaction guaranteed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Lovely album; I bought it because of Motian and Peacock and immediately fell in love with Crispell, too!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARILYN CRISPELL ~ NOTHING EVER WAS, ANYWAY. MUSIC OF ANNETTE PEACOCK
ECM 1626/27 (Barcode: 731453722224) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Beautiful album by US pianist Marilyn CrispellFind albums by this artist with legendary bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, which pays tribute to the extraordinary compositions by Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist. Crispell worked with Annette Peacock for several months selecting the music to be included on this album and Annette herself adds her vocals to one of the songs. Annette Peacock is undoubtedly one of the greatest ballad composers in contemporary Jazz, with an impressive songbook going back to the 1960s. Her celebrated work over the years, which includes cooperation with Avant-Garde, Rock, Prog and Jazz musicians, is truly amazing and extraordinary in scope and diversity. Pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist was the first Jazz musician, who started to feature Annette´s compositions on his numerous albums, starting as early as 1964. This album is a most fitting tribute to her life-long achievements and a masterpiece of contemporary music. Brilliant!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
No album with this rhythm section could be truly monotonous but IMHO the material did not sustain itself over the whole album, despite the intervention from (Mrs) Peacock at the end of the first disc - the later Amaryllis with the same line up (which I bought first) is much more interesting, with many tunes composed by Motian or (Mr) Peacock
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ ALBUM (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 64963 (Barcode: 5099706496328) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1996
The history of jazz is crowned by a small pantheon of stellar figures, which are (more or less) unequivocally accepted as the most prominent contributors to the development of the genre. Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist are members of that exclusive club and so is Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, the most influential jazz pianist ever.
Since Evans’ biography is available from many sources, I won’t go into it here, so here are just a few personal comments: Although Evens played in a variety of settings, he surely deserves the title of inventor of the piano trio, a format in which most of his exceptional work was done. Over the years Evans led a series of legendary trios with the most eloquent bass and drums players, primarily noticeable for the phenomenal and telepathic level of interplay between the trio members. His (fortunately) numerable trio recordings are not only a document of his exceptional sensibility and lyricism as a player and composer, but also cornerstones of musical collaboration. Starting from the first trio (1959) with Scott LaFaroFind albums by this artist and Paul MotianFind albums by this artist and up to the last moments of his life (1980) with Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and Joe LaBarberaFind albums by this artist, the trio recording have always been the safest bets on musical delight one might ever take when buying a jazz album.
This particular album, recorded with legends Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist on bass and Marty MorellFind albums by this artist on drums, is very important in Evans’ history. It includes his first contributions on the electric piano (a custom-made version of the Fender Rhodes), which he will explore more extensively later in his career. It also includes exclusively his own compositions, as opposed to his treatments of jazz standards, which were earlier the bulk of his recording material. This was the first of the only two albums Evans recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label – the other (“Living Time”) still awaiting a proper reissue. I can’t imagine anybody who loves jazz (or in fact anybody who loves music) ignoring this album, so if you still don’t have it – now is your chance. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 01/03/2024Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANAT FORT ~ A LONG STORY
ECM 1994 (Barcode: 602517014169) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2007
This is the first album on the prestigious ECM label by Israeli pianist / composer Anat FortFind albums by this artist and her second release to date. Fort is the first Israeli musician to release an album on ECM. The album was recorded in NY with a formidable quartet, which includes American Jazz players: clarinetist Perry RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Ed SchullerFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, presenting a set of original compositions / improvisations by Anat, who manages to create her own musical universe, unique and distinct from any other music made on this planet, quite an accomplishment for any musician today. Somewhere between modern Jazz, contemporary Classical music, late 19th Century Romanticism and Eric Satie´s Minimalism, the music of Anat Fort is like an impressionist painting, full of melancholy and lyricism and yet sparkling with color and emotion. Her music is always receptive to the listener´s mood, enabling him to discover a different facet every time he listens attentively. It sounds great in early mornings and late at night, being invigorating and soothing at the same time. Of course there is also Anat, the player, gently caressing the keyboard and masterfully applying pressure, when necessary. And yet the album is not an easy listening experience, especially at the first attempt. As all good Art, it requires attentive and repetitive listening, slowly breaking the barrier of assimilating with the listener´s perception. It sneaks on you slowly, doing deeper and deeper ever time, until you are completely hooked, left helpless and fully exposed to its beauty. What bliss! In retrospect I prefer her next album "And IfFind albums with this title", which was recorded with her regular trio. Uninhibited by the presence of strong personalities she is able to express herself more fully on that album, which is all for the best. But personal preferences aside, this is still a formidable album and I can´t imagine any serious music lover not falling in love with this album eventually, even if it takes some effort. Therefore I urge everybody to give it a try, as you surely won´t regret it in the long run. Music of this quality is too rare to be left unnoticed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Thanks for the Introduction, Adam! I loved this at first play, and it has been playing on and off for the last 24 hours, getting better and better (apart from the one short ocarina section). Quite different from my other favourite piano quartets and trios on ECM, but it still has that special ECM clarity and delicacy of sound. Paul Motian is very restrained, almost as if in awe (which is not an emotion I normally associate with him), and of course he gets it just right. I have been waiting for an opportunity to hear Ed Schuller and he was worth the wait. When Adam recommended Anat I chose the this album because of Paul and Ed but now I´m hooked - Adam says "And If" is even better so I´m off to join the waiting list.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLIE HADEN ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1001 (Barcode: 8024709111227) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 - 1990 Released: 2010
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary US bassist / composer Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Haden needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that from the early days with Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist in the late 1950s, his bass playing would definitely establish "The Shape Of Jazz To Come", paraphrasing on the title of Haden´s first recording with Coleman. Later on he was a member of the legendary Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist US quartet and later cooperated with the most distinguished Jazz musicians around the globe. His virtuosic bass playing and excellent compositions are always a source of great musical joy. The musicians playing on these five albums include: drummer Billy HigginsFind albums by this artist, pianist Enrico PieranunziFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Chet BakerFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, pianist Geri AllenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Don CherryFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist and drummer Ed BlackwellFind albums by this artist. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 10/04/2020Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ EYES OF THE HEART
ECM 1150 (Barcode: 042282547620) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 1988
This live recording by the US quartet led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist was originally released as a 3-sided 2LP set (one of a very few such releases, with side 4 left blank), due to the limited playtime of the vinyl format - now it fits perfectly on one CD. The music includes basically one tune (the album´s title), which is split into two parts (again as a result of LP´s sides) and an encore played by the quartet during the concert, which resided on the third vinyl side. While composed by Jarrett, the music is largely improvised, especially when extended into a half an hour long performance. The emotional depth is staggering and the virtuosity of the players, although universally known as a fact, is always astounding. A rare moment of musical ingenuity and aesthetic beauty captured for eternity… a must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ HAMBURG `72
ECM 2422 (Barcode: 602547042569) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2014
The piano trio with bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist was Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist´s first ensemble as a leader and he recorded several albums with the trio before adding saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist, creating the so called American quartet. By the time this music was recorded the trio did not perform any more as such and it is probably one of the last if not the last concert they played together, which was recorded. Jarrett plays primarily the piano but also flute, soprano saxophone and percussion. The album includes six compositions, four of which are his ("Everything That Lives Laments" was recorded on the trio´s last album "The Mourning Of A StarFind albums with this title" / "Take Me Back" was recorded on Jarrett´s "ExpectationsFind albums with this title" album just a couple on months earlier), one is by his (then) wife Margot and one by Haden (the famous "Song For Che").
This was a transition period for Jarrett, following his early solo career and the stint with Miles Davis, but before he found his true individual voice, which reached its apex in his trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The seeds of greatness are of course there, but not the fully blossomed genius. Therefore this album suffers from the same problems all the rest of the recordings by that trio suffer from: a lack of focus and consistency. On the other hand it is the best sounding recording (which is hardly surprising) of this trio´s releases.
Overall this is a very important historical document as far as Jarrett´s career is concerned, obviously essential to Jarrett´s enthusiasts following his career closely (and buying absolutely every album he is on), but hardly Jarrett at his absolute best, a curiosity rather than a groundbreaking statement.
God only knows (and perhaps Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, but it is highly possible they are one and the same) how spacious the ECMFind albums on this label vaults are and how many more archival Jarrett´s albums are going to surface in the future. Hopefully they will prove to be more exciting than this one.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ LIVE IN HAMBURG 1972
JAZZ LIPS 761 (Barcode: 8436019587614) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1974 Released: 2008
This is an unofficial (politically correct alias for good old bootleg) album by the great American pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, recorded live in June 14, 1972 with his trio, which also included bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. The trio performs twelve original compositions, all composed by Jarrett. Jarrett also plays saxophone, flute and percussion on some of these tracks. The album also includes four live tracks recorded a couple of years later in NY, this time with a quintet that includes trumpeter Chet BakerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist, Haden on bass and drummer Beaver HarrisFind albums by this artist, all of which are standards. Also included are two solo piano pieces recorded in 1974, both original compositions / improvisations by Jarrett.
Listeners familiar with Jarrett´s discography can easily pinpoint these tracks as trio versions of the tracks recorded by the so called American Quartet, which included this trio and saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist. They appeared on the album "El JuicioFind albums with this title", recorded in 1971 but released only in 1975 on AtlanticFind albums on this label and on the album "ExpectationsFind albums with this title" recorded in October 1972, i.e. after this live performance, and released on ColumbiaFind albums on this label. The full genealogy of all the tracks is described in the album´s booklet.
The bonus tracks with the quintet are quite unusual, as Jarrett rarely ever played standards at that time and it is the only recording meeting between him and Baker or Konitz.
Jarrett enthusiasts should find this album fascinating at least, as it offers almost two hours of previously unavailable material from the pianist career, which, as usual, is not only excellent musically, but also reveals his performance style and mannerisms in his early period, especially in view of the fact that the American Quartet or the trio did not release any official live material.
The sound quality is a bit Lo-Fi here and there, but considering the historical importance of this music and its rarity, this can be easily forgiven. It would have been nicer to have this music officially released, but considering the revolting politics of the music industry and the nasty habit of keeping unreleased treasures hidden in the vaults, such treasures are bound to pop up sooner and later.
If you can get it (which I doubt) grab it with both hands and cherish it!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: 30/10/2016 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE IMPULSE YEARS 1973-1974
IMPULSE! 237 (Barcode: 011105023726) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 1997
During the 1970’s Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was living a double musical life, leading two completely different quartets – The American one (which recorded on Impulse!Find albums on this label - captured here) and the European / Nordic one, with which he recorded on ECMFind albums on this label. The ECM recordings brought him much glory and fame (in addition to his famous solo-piano recordings on that label), but the recordings with the American quartet, which included Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist on reeds, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist on bass and Paul MotianFind albums by this artist on drums, remain somewhat overlooked / neglected by the jazz enthusiasts. This is of course a great pity, as these revolutionary performances include some of the finest Jarrett’s moments captured on record, as well as brilliant achievements by the members of his quartet. This brilliant Box Set is the companion to the other set, which includes Jarrett’s other recordings on Impulse! (Mysteries: The Impulse Years 1975-1977Find albums with this title, which unfortunately seems to be out of print). It includes material previously released on four Jarrett albums: Fort YawuhFind albums with this title, Treasure IslandFind albums with this title, Death And The FlowerFind albums with this title and BackhandFind albums with this title, but totals in almost double amount of music, with many previously unreleased tracks and tracks released here in their unedited (full) form. The music is of course typical Jarrett, moving constantly between melody and free form, somewhat expanding on the Ornette Coleman legacy, but always very individual and unique only to Jarrett. Redman is also at his best here, especially when captured live (the first 2 CDs were recorded live at the Village Vanguard). This is undoubtedly some of the best American jazz ever and hopefully more people will decide to re-visit these wonderful musical moments.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KONITZ / MEHLDAU / HADEN / MOTIAN ~ LIVE AT BIRDLAND
ECM 2162 (Barcode: 602527369877) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2011
This is a live recording made at the legendary NY Jazz club Birdland by a quartet comprising of four legendary American Jazz musicians: saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist (born 1927), pianist Brad MehldauFind albums by this artist (born 1970), bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist (born 1937) and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist (born 1931) – which of course makes Mehldau about half the age of the other players. The quartet plays six standards, keeping the music at a slow and contemplative mood, as appropriate for the occasion but also quite free and stretched out, way beyond what one might have expected. Obviously none of these Masters needs to prove anything to anybody any more and they obviously enjoy themselves immensely throughout. Mehldau is playing perhaps a bit more forcefully than the others, but not aggressively and Haden appears to be at his full might, playing brilliantly. Considering the sad reality that this might be the last recording by any of these veterans, this is something to be definitely well remembered by. Respect!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I have to say I found this album very difficult, not just on first playing but for many playings; it sounded to me as if the four musicians were playing in different recording studios, and just happened to be recorded onto one disc - stretched out indeed! I was very surprised because I have heard and loved many recordings of the three veterans playing together live. But the CD player in my car broke down and would not let it out, so I heard the album many more times than I would have bothered with otherwise, and suddenly two days ago it all came together as I listened, and now I would not want to take it out if i could! Truly masterful!!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL MOTIAN ~ PAUL MOTIAN
ECM 2260/65 (Barcode: 602537223466) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1984 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set contains the first six albums by the legendary American drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are: "Conception VesselFind albums with this title" (ECM 1028) recorded 1972, "TributeFind albums with this title" (ECM 1048) recorded 1974, "DanceFind albums with this title" (ECM 1108) recorded 1977, "Le VoyageFind albums with this title" (ECM 1138) recorded 1979, "PsalmFind albums with this title" (ECM 1222) recorded 1981 and finally "It Should`ve Happened A Long Time AgoFind albums with this title" (ECM 1283) recorded 1984. Except for just two cases all the music is composed by Motian and performed by various ensembles: three are by a trio, two by quintet and one by sextet. The musicians include pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, guitarists Sam BrownFind albums by this artist and Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Carlos WardFind albums by this artist, Charles BrackeenFind albums by this artist and Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist, bassists Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, David IzenzonFind albums by this artist, Jean-Francois Jenny-ClarkFind albums by this artist and Ed SchullerFind albums by this artist and several others
These albums are all superb examples of Motian´s talent as a composer, who is able to weave beautifully melodic tunes, which nevertheless are open enough to serve as vehicles for extensive improvisations. Except for the first album in this Box Set all other ensembles led by Motian are pianoless and relay mostly on guitar as the harmonic instrument, expressing Motian´s deep affection for this instrument.
Of course Motian´s most important contribution to the Jazz idiom was his revolutionary approach to drumming, which in his case almost completely transformed the instrument´s role form time keeping tool to an instrument performing alongside the other instruments in the ensemble.
Motian´s intimate and complex music may be somewhat difficult for a mainstream Jazz fan, but it truly deserves an open-minded effort to be penetrated and then enjoyed in full. This music is after all an important chapter in American Jazz, which is ambitious and highly aesthetic, and which manages to break from the stale traditionalism into new vistas.
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 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL MOTIAN ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1008 (Barcode: 8024709114228) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 - 1992 Released: 2010
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary American drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Motian needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that his prolific output and an outstanding career stretching over five decades until his death in 2011 are a testimony of a modern Jazz Giant. The music ranges in format from a quintet with saxophonists Jim PepperFind albums by this artist and Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and bassist Ed SchullerFind albums by this artist, trio with Lovano and Frisell and duos with pianists Paul BleyFind albums by this artist and Enrico PieranunziFind albums by this artist. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Fabulous - some really good wild early Frisell!
| | Updated: 12/04/2020Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL MOTIAN ~ TIME AND TIME AGAIN
ECM 1992 (Barcode: 602517011373) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is a brilliant album by the trio led by drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist with guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist. Recently deceased Motian was one of the most prominent American Jazz musicians, always pushing the boundaries of the music and looking for new aesthetic challenges. His numerous recordings from 1950s onwards are an endless source of excellent Jazz music, and this one is no exception. A perfect marriage between the Free Form and melody, which Motian was always balancing, comes here to its perfect fruition, executed by three Master musicians in their absolute prime. Of the ten compositions on this album Motian composed seven, Lovano one and the remaining two are standards. Listening to this album is like watching abstract paintings in a Museum of Modern Art; depending on your mood and state of mind you´ll hear different things each time, but always at the end you´ll be left wishing for more. Brilliant stuff, which should not be missed by any serious Jazz lover!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO PIERANUNZI ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1004 (Barcode: 8024709112521) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 - 1997 Released: 2010
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary Italian pianist / composer Enrico PieranunziFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Pieranunzi needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that from the early days in the mid-1970s he retained his position as one of the best, most sensitive and technically proficient piano player in Europe. His completely unique approach to playing and composing music has put him in a class of itself and his prolific recorded output is always a source of great musical joy. The musicians playing on these five albums include: trumpeter Art FarmerFind albums by this artist, bassist Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist, drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and many others. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 05/05/2020Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ NEW YORK DAYS
ECM 2064 (Barcode: 602517727151) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist has been one of the leaders of European Jazz since several decades and his impressive and extensive recorded legacy is a source of inspiration and musical excellence. This album, recorded in NY, presents a set of new original compositions by Rava and was recorded with brilliant Italian pianist Stefano BollaniFind albums by this artist and American musicians: saxophonist Mark TurnerFind albums by this artist, bassist Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. Full of lyricism and typical European melodic frivolity, the album does not break any new ground, but is, as always in the case of Rava, a deeply aesthetic and uplifting listening experience. The music is somewhat minimalist and relaxed, but shouldn´t be mistaken as lifeless; it simply requires more attentive listening and a lot of experience to find and enjoy the tricks of the trade. A beautiful album, wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ GOODBYE
ECM 1904 (Barcode: 602498251737) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
This is a beautiful album by Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, one of the most important modern European Jazz musicians with an extensive recording legacy, which includes many absolute classic Jazz albums. Recorded with his trio with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, the music includes original composition by Stenson, and Motian, as well as standards and lesser known pieces like, one even by Classical composer Henry PurcellFind albums by this artist arranged by Jormin. This musical diversity reflects well Stenson´s ability to feel comfortable in any musical setting, always elegantly and with true virtuosity. The performances are stellar indeed and overall this is a perfect piano trio album, which is my favorite format. The album is an absolute must to all piano / piano trio lovers and serious Jazz connoisseurs.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
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