Record Reviews

ALAN SKIDMORE / UBIZO ~ UBIZO PROVOCATEUR 1036 (Barcode: 5038491103622) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003 Following the recording of the sensational “The CallFind albums with this title” album, legendary British saxophonist / composer Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist reunited again with the South African ensemble AmampondoFind albums by this artist and created the group UbizoFind albums by this artist, adding a few other British Jazz musicians. This album documents the group’s music, which is a direct continuation of the tremendous success achieved on the previous album. This time the group presents a slightly different balance between Jazz and Folklore, as the “Jazz section” is strengthened by the addition of trumpeter Ingolf BurkhardtFind albums by this artist (from the NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist). Other players include Colin TownsFind albums by this artist (keyboards), Steve MellingFind albums by this artist (piano) and Arnie SomogyiFind albums by this artist (bass), who played on the previous album, and Stephen KeoghFind albums by this artist on drums. The music includes compositions by Skidmore, Towns and of course by members of Amampondo, as well as arrangements of traditional South African music. The overall balance between Jazz and Folklore is absolutely perfect, creating a superb Jazz-World Fusion, as it should be. British Jazz aficionados should remember Skidmore’s participation in Chris McGregorFind albums by this artist’s Brotherhood Of BreathFind albums by this artist some 30 years earlier, which also blended South African music and Jazz. It is quite interesting to compare this recording with the BOB ones and observe the process of maturity and refining that occurred in the meantime. The raw power and wildness (in search of musical and not only freedom) is replaced here by moderation and sophistication. Yes, we are all getting older, no doubt, but this does not affect Skidmore’s playing, which is exceptional, like always. His tone and improvisational skills are a symbol of (spiritual) youth and his Coltranesque explorations remain equal to none. I only hope Skidmore will continue to record his superb music for many years to come. Delightful!

CD 1 Digipak HDCD Recommend To A Friend