Record Reviews

KRATOCHVIL / KOUBKOVA / ACKERMAN / KUCERA ~ ZNENI & SNENI STUDIO BUDIKOV 037 (Barcode: 8594159980372) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2018 Released: 2020 This is an album by four veteran musicians associated with the Czech Jazz scene: keyboardist Martin KratochvilFind albums by this artist, vocalist Jana KoubkovaFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Czech Republic) guitarist Tony AckermanFind albums by this artist and Czech (resident in Berlin) saxophonist Joe KuceraFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight spontaneously improvised original compositions, recorded during an unexpected recording session, credited two each to the four participants, according to which musician initiated the specific tune. Although the music seems very hesitant and fragile at first, the magic atmosphere of the session and the wonderful feel of freedom and invention win over and the music turns out to be a wonderful listening experience in retrospect. In contrast to most Improvised Music recordings, this session was not a race between the participants to show off, but a respectful and highly sympathetic series of “conversations”, which include Blues, Rock and Jazz sources and manage to be highly melodic. Each of the four participants is of course a master musician, and the album includes many wonderful instrumental improvisations, but the vocal parts by Koubkova easily steal the show. She is absolutely delightful, regardless if she sings lyrics, vocalese or just randomized vocal phrases, and she is the glue that holds this album together. Although initially not meant to be released commercially on an album, I support the decision to finally have this music out for the listeners to enjoy, as it is definitely worth it. The comradeship and the empathy between these veterans is truly inspiring, and the age seems to be no hindrance, au contraire the vast experience is evidently a great asset. Thanks for sharing!

Updated: 12/03/2021Posted: 12/03/2021

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