Record Reviews

JULIAN ARGUELLES ~ TETRA WHIRLWIND 4678 (Barcode: 5052442006138) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015 This is an album by British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Julian ArguellesFind albums by this artist, recorded in quartet setting with pianist Kit DownesFind albums by this artist, bassist Sam LassersonFind albums by this artist and drummer James MaddrenFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all original compositions by the leader, one of which is based on a Folk song. The music is a wonderful collection of rather quirky tunes, which must have been devilishly difficult to perform to the musicians, a hurdle they all passed with distinction. Of course the music is no less challenging to the listeners, with many unexpected tempi changes and melodic fragmentations, but somehow all this mayhem makes perfect sense sonically and offers a wonderful musical voyage. Downes, probably the most outstanding British pianist of the young generation, proves to be an ideal partner to Arguelles, supporting his whimsical melodic lines, and the rhythm section also manages to keep up and support the two frontmen amicably and with obvious talent. Together, the quartet offers a fresh, bold and highly original musical approach, which is a pure delight. Overall, although pretty obscure, this is definitely one of the finest British Jazz albums of the last decade, and truly deserves to be discovered by a much wider circle of Jazz lovers around the globe. Highly recommended!

Updated: 31/05/2025Posted: 31/05/2025

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