Record Reviews

JAROMIR HONZAK ~ A QUESTION TO ALL YOUR ANSWERS ANIMAL MUSIC 005 (Barcode: 8594155996551) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007 This is the fourth album as a leader by Czech Jazz bassist / composer Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and his first release on the excellent Czech label Animal MusicFind albums on this label. The album was recorded by a Czech / Polish quartet which also included Czech guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist and Polish pianist Michal TokajFind albums by this artist and drummer Lukasz ZytaFind albums by this artist, both of which played with him on this album´s predecessor "Present PastFind albums with this title". Clarinetist Tomas CisteckyFind albums by this artist, flautist Lucie CisteckaFind albums by this artist and pianist Vojtech ProchazkaFind albums by this artist appear as guests. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Honzak. Seven of the tracks were recorded at the excellent Studio Tokarnia and engineered by Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist, with the usual superb sound quality. The last track was recorded at the Czech Radio and features the a.m. guests. Honzak, whom I have been watching closely since many years, proudly continues the Czech Jazz Bass tradition, established by internationally known bassists like George MrazFind albums by this artist (really Jiri MrazFind albums by this artist) and Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist, but also less known outside of their homeland like Ludek HulanFind albums by this artist, Frantisek UhlirFind albums by this artist, Karel VejvodaFind albums by this artist, Petr KorinekFind albums by this artist and others. His beautifully round notes and chronometric pulsations are always a guarantee of a perfect rhythm section anchor in the numerous recording he took part in. But on this album Honzak great forte are his wonderful compositions, which are beautifully woven, versatile and most importantly open enough to be stretched and explored by the quartet members, often towards unexpected directions. As a result this album is a superb ride into the unforeseen, with each track taking the listener on a new adventure. Not losing the sense of melody and coherence, the music has so much freedom and breathing space that the flexibility is endless. Of course the leader gets fantastic support from the quartet members; Doruzka, here fourteen years younger than today, is already a bright star on the European scale, while Tokaj and Zyta, despite their relatively young age at the time were already seasoned veterans, capable of playing virtually anything. Together the quartet sounds like an organic unit and in retrospect I´d love to hear this experience repeated again. Overall this is a brilliant album from start to finish, a perfect reflection of 21st Century European Jazz at its best. Fourteen years later it still sounds perfectly fresh and sparkling with ingenuity, like a gem it is. Absolutely not to be missed!

Updated: 14/11/2020Posted: 28/08/2020

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DAVID DORUZKA ~ SILENTLY DAWNING ANIMAL MUSIC 007 (Barcode: 8594155990078) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008 This is the second album as a leader by Czech guitarist / composer David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with Swedish vocalist Josefine LindstrandFind albums by this artist and a Polish rhythm section: bassist Michal BaranskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Lukasz ZytaFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original compositions, all by Doruzka except for one piece which is a short percussion interlude by Zyta. Nine of the compositions feature lyrics based on poems by American poetess Emily DickinsonFind albums by this artist (four), Czech Jewish poet Jiri OrtenFind albums by this artist (two) and Lindstrand (three), one is an instrumental and another one is a vocalese / guitar duo. Lindstrand sings all the poems in their original language, i.e. English, Czech and Swedish, which of course is highly unusual and admirable. The album is elegantly packaged and all the poems are presented in appropriate translation in three languages – an obvious publishing labor of elegance and typical Czech care of details, designs and respect towards Culture. The entire album is of course a highly challenging Jazz & Poetry project, which as my readers know is one of my favorite idioms. The music is fitted to the lyrics in most of the pieces, being minimalist and beautifully delicate. The entire aura is deeply melancholic and introvert, even fragile, which is hardly surprising considering Dickinson´s moody, Orten´s mystical / philosophical and Lindstrand introvert poetry, all creating a rather intense atmosphere, which is even more emphasized by the character of the music. Doruzka, despite his age (he was only twenty-seven years old when this music was recorded) manages to compose the highly demanding musical framework for the poetic content, which is remarkably mature and respectful. Most of the vocals are accompanied only by guitar and the rhythm section is featured rather sparingly, wisely minimized to achieve the optimal effect. Baranski contributes several wonderful soli, which serve as interludes but are kept within the clear boundaries of the fragile architecture of this project. Doruzka plays both the acoustic and the electric guitar, always at low volume but certainly no less expressively. The principle of "less is more" is obviously a basic assumption, which proves to be highly effective here. Overall this is a beautiful, elegant and deeply aesthetic piece of music, utilizing the deeply European approach to interdisciplinary concept of Art and Culture, expressed here in the best possible way. It is a true joy to see David grow into a bona fide Jazz musician, especially in view of the fact that his Grandfather, the great Czech writer / music critic / Jazz activist Lubomir DoruzkaFind albums by this artist was a dear friend of mine for many years and whom I remember fondly to this very day. The apple did not, obviously, fell far from the tree ;) Godspeed!

Updated: 23/10/2020Posted: 23/10/2020

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ LITTLE THINGS ANIMAL MUSIC 013 (Barcode: 8594155994335) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009 This is the fifth album as a leader by Czech bassist / composer Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and his second release on the excellent Czech label Animal MusicFind albums on this label. It was recorded by the same Czech / Polish quartet which recorded the previous album "A Question To All Your AnswersFind albums with this title" which also included Czech guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist and Polish pianist Michal TokajFind albums by this artist and drummer Lukasz ZytaFind albums by this artist – this time expanded to a quintet with the addition of American saxophonist Chris CheekFind albums by this artist, Honzak´s colleague from the Berklee College of Music days. The PKF String QuartetFind albums by this artist plays on one track. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Honzak. The music was splendidly recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. The music is, as usual, a wonderful collection of beautiful melodies, deeply melancholic and superbly crafted, which Honzak manages to produce time after time from the depth of his Artistic mind. After listening to his almost entire recorded legacy, he emerges as one of the most consistent European Jazz composers today, appearing to be able to reinvent himself time after time without repeating any idea more than once. The quintet also does not disappoint, with all the participants playing absolutely perfectly. Tokaj is, as always, the epitome of melancholy, young Doruzka has always something new up his sleeve, Zyta is a true Master of the percussive sounds and even Cheek, out of his American habitat, sounds remarkably European and solos beautifully, especially on the saxophone trio track, which is the most open piece on the album. Honzak´s bass parts are of course the skeleton of the music, always perfectly in tune and on time, leading the way but in fact creating a perfect spacetime for the music to develop within it. Overall this is another brilliant album by Honzak, a wonderful example of the intrinsic beauty of European Jazz and the importance of composition in Jazz, without which all music sound simply hollow, regardless of how well it is played. Recorded eleven years before these lines are written, this music proves to be absolutely timeless and deeply moving, as always. Obviously, this is a must have for all European Jazz connoisseurs, whenever they might be…

Updated: 14/11/2020Posted: 14/11/2020

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ FACE OF THE BASS ANIMAL MUSIC 025 (Barcode: 8594155995134) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2010 - 2011 Released: 2011 This is the sixth album by Czech Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist recorded with keyboardists Beata HlavenkovaFind albums by this artist and Michal NejtekFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / clarinetist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist and drummer Roman VichaFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine pieces, four of which are original compositions by Honzak, two are original compositions by Nejtek, one is an original composition by Hlavenkova and the final two are Honzak’s arrangements of Pop songs. Two of the tracks feature string orchestra arrangements. The music is beautifully recorded at SONO Records studio by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. The album has a unique atmosphere, quite different from most of Honzak’s recorded legacy, being perhaps his most Fusion oriented work to date. It is still very much rooted in Jazz of course, but the synthesizer soaked sound and the choice of material gives the music a more contemporary feel, definitely way more accessible to a wider and perhaps younger audience. But the music is, as always, wonderful from start to finish and so are the performances. The double keyboards sound, electric and synthesized, inspires a somewhat reminiscent aura of the early Weather Report at its best. Honzak bass is always at the very core of the music, leading it steadily and keeping things in perfect balance. Honzak proves again his versatility as a composer and arranger, capable of playing around with moods and emotions, like only very few other musicians can, always preserving his aesthetic integrity, regardless of the stylistic proximity of the music at hand. The arrangements of the AbbaFind albums by this artist song “Dancing Queen” or the electronics / house hit “Poor Leno” by RöyksoppFind albums by this artist are a schoolbook example of his ability to play with the original melody like it was made of plasteline. Overall this is another superb album in Honzak’s impressive discography, which never ceases to amaze, surprise and delight. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 24/02/2021Posted: 23/02/2021

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ BLOOD SINGS ANIMAL MUSIC 033 (Barcode: 8594155996049) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012 This is the seventh album by Czech Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist recorded with Norwegian (resident in Denmark) vocalist Sissel Vera PettersenFind albums by this artist, Czech keyboardist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist and guitarist Josef StepanekFind albums by this artist and Polish drummer Lukasz ZytaFind albums by this artist. The album is dedicated to the songs by American singer / songwriter Suzanne VegaFind albums by this artist and nine out of the ten pieces on the album were written or co-written by her. The remaining piece is an instrumental improvisation credited to Honzak, Pettersen, Kristan and Zyta. The music is a somewhat Jazzed up interpretation of the songs by Vega, which retains the melancholy and delicate melodic lines of the origin. The arrangements are very modest and subdued, preserving an intimate climate and respectfully remain within the Pop idiom, without trying to transform the songs into overtly Jazz language, which I personally find very commendable. Even Pettersen, known for her experimental vocal techniques, stays pretty “conventional” for the entire duration of the album. As beautiful and heartfelt the music on this album is, I personally fail to see the “added value” it offers over the original material performed by Vega, which is often more expressive at its “naked” minimalist delivery. There is plenty of beautiful music and superb performances herein, as expected, and the album easily holds its ground, but is somewhat less challenging and exciting than the rest of Honzak’s recorded legacy. The a.m. improvised piece is, for me, the highlight of the album and I wish more of such music was included on this album. Overall this is an elegant piece of music, which pays tribute to a sublime songwriter and should keep both the Jazz and more sophisticated Pop listeners very happy.

Updated: 16/02/2021Posted: 16/02/2021

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VIT KRISTAN ~ IMPRINTS ANIMAL MUSIC 036 (Barcode: 8594155997121) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 - 2013 Released: 2013 This is the debut album by young and upcoming Czech pianist / composer Vit KristanFind albums by this artist recorded with his trio called Vit Kristan ProjectFind albums by this artist which includes veteran bassist Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and drummer Roman VichaFind albums by this artist, and guests: Slovak trumpeter Oskar TorokFind albums by this artist and Polish guitarist Marek KadzielaFind albums by this artist and vocalist Agnieszka TwardochFind albums by this artist (on one track only). The album presents twelve original compositions, all by Kristan. The music was splendidly recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. The music is melody based modern European Jazz, typical of Eastern European ensembles and offering excellent and highly original compositions and conceptually atypical approach to the Jazz idiom, now rejuvenated by the rapidly growing new generation of European musicians, who refuse to simply follow the tradition and are ready to innovate even at a very young age, like in this case. Schooled at the Katowice Music Academy Kristan´s ties with the young generation of Polish Jazz musicians is pretty natural and continued in the years following his return home. The participation of Kadziela effectively expands the sonic range and stylistic diversity of the music with his Rock / Fusion soaked approach. Kristan consistently displays an affinity towards guitar players in his recordings following this debut, often with Czech guitarist Dawid Doruzka. The superb rhythm section of Honzak and Vicha bless this music with a wonderful feel of swing, despite the relatively open playing by these veterans, with a superb diversity and flexibility, which allow Kristan to venture into extensive soloing utilizing uneven rhythmic patterns. Listening to this album in retrospect, since for some strange reason it did not reach me earlier, and after being familiar with quite a few of his recordings released since, it clearly shows that although it is perhaps a tad hesitant, he was already a mature musician and even more so a highly promising composer blessed with an unusual talent. It is a bit strange that Kristan did not record a follow up album as a leader so far, and I certainly hope he won´t let as linger for much longer. In the meantime we can enjoy his work as a sideman or co-leader, which is always excellent, but it is high time for new original compositions, by a fully blossomed Artist. This album is still highly recommended of course!

Updated: 05/10/2020Posted: 05/10/2020

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LUBOS SOUKUP ~ THROUGH THE MIRROR ANIMAL MUSIC 038 (Barcode: 8594155997022) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 - 2013 Released: 2013 This is the second album as a leader by Czech saxophonist / composer Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quartet, which also includes German pianist Christian PabstFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Joel IllerhagFind albums by this artist and Danish drummer Morten HaesumFind albums by this artist. The lineup is expanded by the addition of a not less international six-piece horn section and a Czech string quartet. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Soukup. The music is a wonderful example of modern European Jazz, based on excellent compositions, which amalgamate some glimpses of European Classical Music influences and Jazz ensemble music, brilliantly arranged and perfectly executed by these, mostly young but already very experienced and well educated musicians. Soukup demonstrates his highly unusual melody weaving skills, which have been amply reflected by his work in the years since this album was released, both on his own recordings and albums with other people. He is a member of the Prague SixFind albums by this artist composers’ collective, whose work was wonderfully recorded by the Czech Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist (of which he is also a member), the Inner SpacesFind albums by this artist quintet and other ensembles and in the last few years he is definitely one of the most active and prolific figures on the Czech Jazz scene. The scope of the music is pretty amazing, elegantly floating between the more Jazz oriented pieces, performed by the ensemble and the more somber Classical oriented compositions, performed by the string quartet, but always keeping the listener mesmerized by the depth of the music and the intricate / multi-level arrangements, which become an intrinsic part of the concept that Soukup is trying to create on this album. Considering the fact that he was only twenty-seven at the time this music was recorded, the achievement is even more impressive. Overall this is a very striking piece of European Music, which exemplifies not only the incredible powers of these individuals but also their unprecedented ability to join forces in international projects, like this one, which are very common in the last decade in the borderless Europe. Soukup is definitely a musician / composer worthy of being followed by lovers of European Jazz and all his recordings deserve attention. Hats off!

Updated: 07/05/2021Posted: 07/05/2021

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TIBURTINA ENSEMBLE / DAVID DORUZKA TRIO ~ APOKALIPSIS ANIMAL MUSIC 041 (Barcode: 8594155997053) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013 This is an album by Czech female vocal septet called Tiburtina EnsembleFind albums by this artist, directed by Barbora SojkovaFind albums by this artist, and Czech Jazz guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist and his trio with saxophonist / bass clarinetist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin NovakFind albums by this artist. The album presents eighteen tracks recorded at the Zvikov Castle, which combine medieval music, mostly from the early fourteenth Century Las Huelgas Codex from Spain, based on Biblical texts (mostly the Book of Revelation or Apocalypse of St. John – hence the title) and contemporary improvisations by the trio led by Doruzka. The audacious attempt to bridge the almost Millennium long chasm, not only musical but also cultural and even spiritual, seems at first completely unimaginable, but this album proves that music is indeed timeless and the musicians are able to create an amalgam, which ignores the a.m. disparities. The original medieval vocal music is performed almost "untouched", in all its glory and divinity. The individual voices of the ensemble members as well as the choir parts are absolutely stunning, which is hardly surprising considering the Tiburtina Ensemble´s well earned reputation. However, the improvised parts by Doruzka and his cohorts are even more shocking, since their contemporary form and sound differs as totally as humanly possible from the medieval music, and yet are able to create a mystical bond between the two. Symbolically, like in the Book of Revelation, where the Good eventually triumphs over Evil, here the great stylistic division manages to be conquered by human ingenuity and love of music. Obviously this is no ordinary music, and it demands from the listener a complete submission to the overall sonic experience. Cultural background and knowledge of music history can be helpful, but is not necessary in order to absorb this wonderful and very potent offering, absolutely worth of every bit of effort needed to fully enjoy it. This is one of the most profound musical projects that try to bring medieval music into contemporary musical environment that I ever encountered, and as such it deserves a special praise, in addition to the wonderful sound recording and highly aesthetic packaging, all of which speak volumes of the Czech Culture and love of music and tradition. Kudus to all the people involved in this project and of course a warmest recommendation to all true music connoisseurs to get a copy ASAP. Hats off!

Updated: 16/10/2020Posted: 16/10/2020

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ UNCERTAINTY ANIMAL MUSIC 047 (Barcode: 8594155990443) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014 This is the eighth album as a leader by Czech Jazz bassist / composer Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist recorded by an international quintet comprising, in addition to the leader, of French clarinetist / saxophonist Antonin-Tri HoangFind albums by this artist, Czech guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist and Swedish drummer Jon FaltFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions by Honzak. The music was splendidly recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, offering a spectacular sound quality. As usual with Honzak´s musical endeavors, it is first and foremost the music he composes that touches the listener deepest. The wonderful team plays brilliantly all the way through of course, which is hardly surprising considering the quality of these instrumentalists, but the delicate and completely unique compositions are the focus of this album, especially so as this one is the most fragile, introvert and as if hesitant collection of his tunes, perhaps reflected by the album´s title. Honzak is completely atypical as a Jazz composer and his compositions are not based on the usual theme / improvisations / theme structure, but each and every one is like a micro-suite with several intertwining melody lines and fragments, which create a charming puzzle. As a result each of his albums is dissimilar from the rest of his work and has a unique character, something that rarely happens so vividly with Jazz composers. The presence of Hoang and Falt has perhaps also part in this album sounding differently. Honzak usually tends to record his album with a steady team of musicians, who repeatedly appear on his albums, which of course has its advantages. But obviously "new blood" can work wonders as well, as this album proves. Overall this is a beautiful, somewhat reserved and even minimalist piece of music, which wonderfully exemplifies the "less is more" concept as far as the performances are concerned, and offers another splendid collection of Honzak´s brilliant compositions. This is a pure delight from start to finish and is wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 30/09/2020Posted: 30/09/2020

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CONCEPT ART ORCHESTRA ~ THE PRAGUE SIX ANIMAL MUSIC 049 (Barcode: 8594155990467) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015 This is the third album by the Czech Big Band / Orchestra called Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist, founded in 2010 and led by trumpeter / composer Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist. The initial idea of the orchestra was to perform contemporary Czech music by various composers. After releasing a couple of albums the orchestra was dormant for a while, until Balcarova decided in 2014 to re-think the concept and established a group of six Czech composers, called collectively The Prague Six, who composed the original music performed on this album: six compositions, one each, by every member of the group: Balcarova, saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, pianist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Martin BrunnerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jan JiruchaFind albums by this artist and pianist Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist, four of them also play on the album. The orchestra, conducted by Balcarova, includes sixteen players with the obvious saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm sections. The music was recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, with the usual splendid sound quality. The music presents a very diverse compositional palette, with all six pieces being beautifully weaved and arranged for the orchestra. The compositions vary in the degree of melody oriented contents, which in some cases in plainly stated and in others subtly disguised by the layers of sound. There are also different levels of complexity and energy involved, which results in the orchestra sound at one moment calm and minimalist and at other erupt with brawny display of the full power of a Big Bind. Although the compositions are quite different, the album offers a perfectly balanced and coherent excursion into the world of orchestral music, which constantly moves in and out of what the listeners might perceive as "Jazz", depending of their personal inclinations. The album is also a splendid example of the European approach to composing for Jazz Big Band / Orchestra, which dramatically varies from the accepted American approach, which is usually quite straightforward and structured, whereas here we can find a complete lack of any boundaries, except those dictated by aesthetics and lucidity, in addition to the sophistication and elegance of European musical tradition polished over the Centuries. Each of the six pieces offers opportunity for the orchestra members to solo, which they of course do most vividly. The orchestra as a whole performs superbly, showing the entire dynamic range from whisper to roar, which is unique to the Big Band idiom. Overall this is a breathtaking piece of music, not only for Big Band buffs, but also all other connoisseurs of orchestral music, which always amazes with its sheer power of expression. Highly recommended!

Updated: 29/10/2020Posted: 29/10/2020

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STEPANKA BALCAROVA ~ LIFE AND HAPPINESS OF JULIAN TUWIM ANIMAL MUSIC 065 (Barcode: 8594155991709) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017 This is the debut album as a leader by Czech trumpeter / composer Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist, recorded with a septet comprising of Czech and Polish Jazz musicians: vocalist Malgorzata HutekFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist, flautist Robert FischmannFind albums by this artist, pianist Nikola KolodziejczykFind albums by this artist, bassist Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz MaslowskiFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the album presents nine poems by Polish / Jewish poet Julian TuwimFind albums by this artist, which were made into songs with original music composed by Balcarova. The album is a typical Jazz & Poetry project, which apparently is a specialty of the Eastern European region (Poland especially), and which keeps the wondrous and much neglected elsewhere idiom alive and kicking. Of course tackling Tuwim´s poems, who after all was the most important 20th Century Polish poet, is an extremely risky undertaking, especially in view of the fact that his poems were already made into songs countless times before by some of the best composers out there. Balcarova decided to compose music to Tuwim´s early poetry, published (with one exception) between 1918 and 1923, which are more rarely used as sources of songs, and therefore she brings forward to the public eye a lesser known facet of his poetry. I am happy to say that Balcarova managed to create a consistent song cycle, with her music being very appropriate to the poetic contents. The music is full of melancholy, perhaps even a bit too somber at times, since these poems are considered as optimistic and vital in comparison to Tuwim´s later work, which was full of cynicism and resentment. Nevertheless the music, as already mentioned, is more than appropriate in this context and its melodic qualities, which incorporate strong Eastern European folkloristic motifs, is definitely impressive. The polyrhythmic compositions are the most successful and interesting musically, but they are a minority. The instrumental work is also very solid from start to finish, with excellent solo parts by the players and supportive rhythm section. Kolodziejczyk is definitely the key player, who keeps the harmonic structures in place and accompanies the vocals amicably, adding some splendid solo parts on the fly. The vocals suffer from some problems: they are way too theatrical and loud; there is way too much vibrato and almost no reference between the actual lyrics (poems) and the way they are expressed. Hutek sings forcefully even in the most intimate moments, which at its extreme manifestations is pretty annoying. I´d rather have these texts whispered rather than sung the way they are. But to be fair these texts are extremely difficult and combined with the music, which also is often challenging, Hutek does the best she can to make it work and overall, with a bit of acquired taste, does fine. But this album is all about the music, first and foremost, and as such it is a splendid piece of work, that deserves to be heard and enjoyed. Beautifully packaged and with a booklet that includes the original poems in Polish and Czech and English translations, this is a piece of Culture that true connoisseurs of the Jazz & Poetry idiom would absolutely love to have in their collections. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 04/03/2018Posted: 04/03/2018

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KAREL RUZICKA JR. ~ GRACE & GRATITUDE ANIMAL MUSIC 072 (Barcode: 8594155991389) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018 This is the fourth album as a leader by Czech (resident in US) Jazz saxophonist / composer Karel Ruzicka Jr.Find albums by this artist recorded in NY with American musicians: pianist Jon CowherdFind albums by this artist, bassist John PatitucciFind albums by this artist and drummer Nate SmithFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by the leader. Ruzicka is the son of pianist / composer / bandleader Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, one of the Godfathers of modern Czech Jazz and a notable teacher of generations of Czech Jazz musicians, whom I was lucky to know in person. The two managed to record a couple of father & son led albums before the untimely death of Ruzicka Sr. in 2016. The music is all straightforward mainstream American Jazz, based on the excellent compositions by the leader, superbly performed by these highly professional musicians. The compositions offer solid melody lines and perfect harmony, showing strong Blues and Bebop roots, like most American mainstream albums. Ruzicka is a wonderful saxophonist, sleek and soulful, and his performances throughout this album are absolutely ideal for his music. The album is in many respects a "perfect" example of contemporary mainstream American Jazz. Having said that, however, personally I keep wondering why would Ruzicka Jr. create music that is a perfect replica of virtually thousands of similar albums recorded by American Jazz musicians during the last five decades, ignoring his European cultural legacy on one side and give up any attempt to emancipate his music from the constrains that keep American Jazz frozen for so long, on the other side. Of course he can do anything he sees fit, and even do it perfectly, but the question still stands… Overall this is a "classic" American mainstream Jazz album, flawlessly performed, but completely conventional and devoid of any attempt to innovate. Having said that, this album might certainly be a perfect listening companion for many Jazz listeners, who prefer this risk-free facet of the Jazz idiom.

Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: 02/10/2020

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DOROTA BAROVA ~ ILUZJA ANIMAL MUSIC 073 (Barcode: 8594155991365) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018 This is the debut album as a leader by Czech vocalist / cellist / songwriter Dorota BarovaFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Jakub VejnarFind albums by this artist and bassist Miroslav ChyskaFind albums by this artist, who play on six of the album’s ten tracks. The album presents ten original songs, all composed by Barova except one composed by pianist Beata HlavenkovaFind albums by this artist, who also sings and plays on that track. The remaining three tracks are performed by Barova, using multitracked vocals and cello. Barova wrote the lyrics to four of the tracks, four other were written by Polish journalist and lyricist Teresa DrozdaFind albums by this artist and the last two by Polish poet Krzysztof Kamil BaczynskiFind albums by this artist. All the lyrics are in the Polish language and Barova sings them in Polish, crediting her love of that language to her Mother, who is Polish (although Polish and Czech languages have many similarities and both belong to the Slavic languages group, they are also quite distinct). The music is an obvious example of my beloved Jazz & Poetry idiom, and is definitely one of the finest examples of this Artistic genre that landed on my desk lately. Thy music is uniquely beautiful, full of intrinsic lyricism, but also quite complex, multilayered and intricate, despite the fact that it utilizes a limited instrumental range. The excellent sound recording (Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist again) enables listening to each and every little nuance, which this album is absolutely packed with. The album is full of ingenious trickery, using unconventional instrumentation and a complex multilayered combination of vocal and instrumental tracks, which turn the seemingly limited, almost minimalist range into a brilliant kaleidoscope of sounds, all fitting together brilliantly. Barova utilizes her vocal and instrumental abilities to the max, achieving an unprecedented harmoniously coherent result. Combined with the excellent lyrics, the overall result is simply irresistible. Overall this album is a wonderful example of intelligent, sensitive, inventive and highly aesthetic music making, which offers a distinctive statement, breaks new ground and challenges the listener both emotionally and cerebrally. Thank you, my Lady, for sharing your talent with us and Godspeed in future endeavors!

Updated: 06/03/2021Posted: 06/03/2021

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CONCEPT ART ORCHESTRA ~ VANOCE DOSPELYCH ANIMAL MUSIC 075 (Barcode: 8594155991617) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Xmas Jazz Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018 This is the fourth album by the Czech Big Band called Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist, founded in 2010 and led by trumpeter / composer Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests (Eng. "Xmas For The Grownups"), this is a Xmas Jazz project, but it is completely original and different from most such endeavors. The album presents nine pieces, three of which are traditional Xmas Carrols, one is a 17th Century Classical composition and five are original compositions, all composed or arranged by members of a group of six Czech composers, called collectively The Prague SixFind albums by this artist: Balcarova, saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, pianist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Martin BrunnerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jan JiruchaFind albums by this artist and pianist Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist, four of which also play on the album. The Big Band, conducted by Balcarova, includes eighteen players with the obvious saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm sections. Three vocalists perform the lyrics (in Czech) to the five original pieces; written by Czech poets (Jan SkacelFind albums by this artist and Frana SramekFind albums by this artist) and other lyricists or in one case by Soukup, which also place this project in the proximity of the Jazz & Poetry idiom. The music is by far more Jazz oriented than other Xmas Jazz projects, with the full splendor of the Big Band dominating the proceedings. The compositions and the intricate arrangements create a multi-layered aural experience, in which the lyrics are just one aspect of the whole. The arrangements of the traditional Carrols and the Classical piece take them almost completely away from their original / usual environs, and are brilliant displays of the artistry of transposing music between genres, in this case sounding like Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist´s standards rather than European folkloristic themes. And yet the Big Band manages to keep the Xmas Spirit of the music intact due to a highly creative sensibility. The three Carrols are placed in tandem, creating a sort of mini suite, standing somewhat apart from the original compositions, but still being an organic part of the entire project. Throughout the album the Big Band members get plenty of opportunity to solo and the performances as a whole are absolutely superb from start to finish. The Orchestra sounds collectively as one organic body and such level of mutual respect and cooperation is awe inspiring. The vocals are also splendidly executed, with obvious respect to both the text and the music. Even for non Czech speaking listeners these vocals are perfectly communicative, at least on the emotional level. Overall this is a superb piece of music, not only for Big Band buffs, but also all other connoisseurs of orchestral music, which always amazes with its sheer power of expression. For me it is definitely the most well rounded creation by the CAO and as such it is of course highly recommended. My sincere thanks to Stepanka Balcarova for sharing this music with me and I wish her many fruitful musical achievements in the future. Well done Milady and all the people who make Czech Jazz such a wonderful experience!

Updated: 06/11/2020Posted: 05/11/2020

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NIKOL BOKOVA ~ INNER PLACE ANIMAL MUSIC 079 (Barcode: 8594155999507) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the debut album (within the Jazz idiom) by Czech pianist / composer Nikol BokovaFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic Jazz piano trio setting with bassist Martin KocianFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal WierzgonFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen original compositions, all by Bokova. Growing up surrounded by Classical Music and performing as pianist since childhood, Bokova discovered Jazz relatively late in her career, but it seems that the new passion is truly burning in her heart as with in a year she already released a second album “Unravel”, also recorded with the same trio. The album presents a series of relatively short compositions, which offer limited melodic content and concentrate on rhythmic chord sequences instead. The Classical Music influence and schooling dominate the overall approach, which is carefully worked to the last detail but lacks the natural Jazz flow. Classical Music listeners will surely recognize motifs characteristic of 20th Century composers within Bokova’s music, which of course is completely understandable. Combining Classical Music and Jazz is certainly a daunting task, with no guarantees whatsoever. Overall this is certainly a promising debut, but the music needs refinement and focus, which will strengthen the Jazz related elements and add compositional diversity or move entirely towards interpretation of Classical Music compositions, a step Bokova took on the a.m. second album. Of course this is just my personal view and I wish the Lady good luck and Godspeed.

Updated: 04/03/2021Posted: 04/03/2021

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MARTIN BRUNNER BAND ~ LEVELS OF LIFE ANIMAL MUSIC 080 (Barcode: 8594155999538) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the fifth album by the Czech Jazz pianist / composer Martin BrunnerFind albums by this artist and his first recording with the quartet called Martin Brunner BandFind albums by this artist, which also includes guitarist Tomas FuchsFind albums by this artist, Slovak bassist Rastislav UhrikFind albums by this artist and drummer Roman VichaFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions by Brunner, but on the album’s artwork the composer gives credit to the other members of the band for shaping the final arrangements of these compositions. The music was excellently recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. Brunner is a member of the composers’ collective The Prague SixFind albums by this artist (see Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist) and collaborated with many other musicians on the local scene in various genres. He is considered as one of the leading young composers in the Czech Republic. His previous four albums as a leader were recorded with a piano trio (or in one case piano trio and string quartet) and are all excellent. This album finds Brunner in a completely new musical environment, playing contemporary Fusion (for a lack of better definition), which offers a set of wonderful compositions performed with a Rocky attitude. But the music is quite different from what most listeners consider as Fusion these days, since it is way more ambitious and sophisticated than the usual contemporary Fusion doodling. Brunner plays a lot of acoustic piano (which is already unusual for a Fusion album) and an analog synthesizer and the guitarist uses a plethora of different sounds, eschewing unnecessary boring long solos. The rhythm section is also superb, playing excellent polyrhythms and odd times with ease and elegance. The bass adds a wonderful basis for the entire sound, and although soloes sparingly, his playing is absolutely virtuosic. Overall this music is simply ravishing from start to finish, fondly reminiscent of the early days of Fusion, when the music was truly innovative and challenging, setting new rules of what was possible within the symbiosis of Jazz and Rock. Brunner’s compositions are full of unexpected turns and twists, which keeps the listener in check for the duration. For all appreciative Fusion lovers, especially those of the older generation, who remember the idiom at its prime and the younger, who wish to learn how it can be done at its best, this album is an absolute must. Hats off!

Updated: 27/02/2021Posted: 27/02/2021

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VERTIGO ~ DALEKO ANIMAL MUSIC 081 (Barcode: 8594155999545) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the seventh album by Czech / Slovak Jazz ensemble VertigoFind albums by this artist, which comprises of saxophonist / clarinetist / vocalist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist, trumpeter / vocalist Oskar TorokFind albums by this artist, cellist / vocalist Dorota BarovaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vojtech ProchazkaFind albums by this artist, bassist Rastislav UhrikFind albums by this artist and drummer Daniel SoltisFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven original compositions; five by Barta, three by Prochazka and one each by Barova (with her lyrics), Torok (with lyrics by Slovak poet Ivan KraskoFind albums by this artist) and Soltis. The music is a highly interesting mixture of contemporary Jazz, Chamber Classical music and some Fusion elements, a wonderfully weird, almost Zappaesque concoction, which offers a superb balance of composed and improvised music and should leave no open-minded listener indifferent. Since I am exposed on a daily basis to huge quantities of new music, it is not surprising that it is very difficult to surprise me ;) However this music is definitely a breath of fresh air with its chutzpah and seemingly complete disregard of conventionalism or populism. As a result the listener gets exposed to something different with each track on the album and yet the entire continuity preserves an aesthetic coherence, despite the diversity. The modus operandi of the ensemble is definitely focused on group performance, with the soloing being rather secondary, which does not however limit the superb individual contributions by all the members, which can be distinctly heard by an attentive listener. The intense ensemble sound dominates the proceedings and interestingly the usage of the human voices as instruments empowers the total result and adds another dimension. This music might require more than one listening session in order to penetrate the complexity and intricacy, but is definitely worth the effort. Personally it´s time for me to dig into the earlier recordings by the group, which are hopefully bearing gifts of the same nature. Overall this is a heck of an album, completely innovative and stunning by its chest of musical treasures, which is wholeheartedly recommended. My respect towards Czech / Slovak Jazz is well justified again and if you are bored by the mundane Jazz albums that clutter our life, this is definitely a fountain of youth ;) Enjoy and well done people (of the universe without plastic)!

Updated: 12/10/2020Posted: 12/10/2020

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ HARD TO UNDERSTAND ANIMAL MUSIC 085 (Barcode: 8594155998715) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the tenth album as a leader by Czech Jazz bassist / composer Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist recorded by an all-Czech quintet comprising of some of the top Jazz players in the country: guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, clarinetist / saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin NovakFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions by Honzak and a couple of adaptations of a medieval theme. The music was splendidly recorded at the SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, offering a spectacular sound quality. Listeners familiar with Honzak´s numerous recordings should be able to immediately recognize the two idiosyncratic qualities that are eminently present in his music: first and foremost the quality and depth of his compositions and then his unique way of playing the bass, both acoustic and electric. These qualities have ensured a certain seal of quality present in all his recordings in the last quarter of a Century, which not surprisingly has steadily strengthened over time. The sonority of the music and its somewhat mythical atmosphere is deeply European in nature, and offers a sublime amalgam of European music, which could be considered as Classical or folkloristic in its nature, with the Jazz idiom. It is hard to distinguish how much if this aesthetics is created subconsciously and how much is cleverly conceived, but regardless of the thought processes behind it, the result is simply overwhelming. This music could have never happened the way it does, touching on every string of the listener´s musical consciousness, if not the formidable team of musicians performing it. The strangely wonderful harmony achieved by Doruzka, Soukup and Kristan, which mixes acoustic and electric sounds into new sound vistas one could never imagine possible, is the heart of the magic that happens on this album. The use of the electronics by Kristan is simply masterly and his way of balancing the quantity of synthesized sounds with the acoustic ones is brilliant. Honzak is, as always, the spine of the entire complex structures created by the team and Novak keeps the time code wonderfully present, without being obtrusive. All these musicians are great masters of their relative instruments, which combined with their impeccable taste and talent results in music that is pure nectar to the ears. This album is a remarkable piece of music, which perhaps might demand certain intellectual as well as emotional involvement form the listener in order to be able to comprehend its depth and aesthetic beauty. Repeated listening sessions are highly recommended, since peeling layer after layer from this strange fruit is a delightful experience; "hard to understand"? not really if you approach this music with the same amount of love it was created with. Thank you Jaromir and co. for this beautiful gift of music!

Updated: 17/09/2020Posted: 17/09/2020

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KAREL RUZICKA ~ GARDEN OF SILENCE ANIMAL MUSIC 086 (Barcode: 8594155998739) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2010 Released: 2020 This is a solo piano album by Czech pianist / composer / educator Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, which sadly is the last recorded evidence of his career, recorded six years before his untimely passing in 2016 and released posthumously ten years after the recording. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Ruzicka. Ruzicka was one of the Godfathers of the Czech Jazz scene, active for over five decades first during the early days of the modern Czechoslovak Jazz, as member of the Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist´s SHQFind albums by this artist, Laco DecziFind albums by this artist´s Jazz CellulaFind albums by this artist and many others. He debuted in 1972 with the excellent "Karel Ruzicka + 9Find albums with this title" album and followed with several notable recordings over the years, the most relevant in this context being his debut solo piano album "Pleasure Garden" from 1981. These two albums, recorded almost three decades apart, form a beautiful continuance that portrays Ruzicka´s career and the most significant characteristics of his music: incredible sense of melody, typical elegance and great respect of European Classical tradition, which were always the "pillar of fire" of his approach to composing music. In many respects this album is a superb closure to his career, offering some of his deepest and most profound compositions, a serenity that comes only with age, and his deep love of the European musical aesthetics. Although the compositions on the albums offer stylistic diversity, the music is unified by the composer´s coherency and idiosyncratic vocabulary. Combined with the superb execution the music soars and vibrates the listener´s soul strings. I have been fortunate to meat Karel Ruzicka several times over the years and listen to his performances live, which was always a profoundly moving experience. Ruzicka was one of the most important Jazz educators in the Czech Republic in the last decades of his life and he is definitely "responsible" for the incredible flux of greatly talented young Czech musicians, who are truly "making waves" on the European scene in the last decade or so. This album is a beautiful tribute to this great Master! For solo piano Jazz music lovers this album is a true revelation and obviously a wholehearted recommendation. European Jazz connoisseurs in general are also in for a rare treat!

Updated: 19/10/2020Posted: 19/10/2020

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CONCEPT ART ORCHESTRA ~ 100 YEARS ANIMAL MUSIC 091 (Barcode: 8594155998791) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020 This is the fifth album by the Czech Big Band called Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist, founded in 2010 and led by trumpeter / composer Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, this is a project commemorating the Centennial of the modern Czech State founded in 1918 following the end of WW I. The album presents a six-part suite, each part dedicated to one of the six periods signifying the development over time of the convoluted history of Czechoslovakia / Czech Republic between 1918 and 2018. Each of the six parts includes short archival recordings of speeches by relevant historic personalities and other sounds. All the music was composed by members of a group of six Czech composers, called collectively The Prague SixFind albums by this artist: Balcarova, saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, pianist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Martin BrunnerFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jan JiruchaFind albums by this artist and pianist Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist, all of which also play on the album, two as guests. The Big Band, conducted by Balcarova, includes eighteen players with the obvious saxophone, trumpet, trombone and rhythm sections. Six guests play on selected tracks. The music was beautifully recorded and offers a magnificently rich Big Band sound. As all the earlier albums by the CAO, the music is skillfully and intelligently woven and superbly executed by the Big Band members. It epitomizes the concept and sound of the European Jazz Big Band tradition, which although based on the American Jazz Big Band tradition to some extent, expands the traditional roles of the sections and their mutual relationships and offers more challenging arrangements and aural versatility. The music emphasizes the Big Band sound, which functions like one organic body and even the individual soloing is also kept as naturally solidified with the overall sound as possible. There is no doubt that the CAO is today one of the most ambitious and productive Big Bands active on the European scene, with a strong conceptual base of resident composers, brilliant instrumentalist and dedicated leadership, superbly implemented by Balcarova. This album is a schoolbook example of the intellectual capacity invested into a musical project, which not only works to the full effect, but also educates and sets an incredibly high standard to follow. On a personal note, I was deeply moved by this album since between my Father and myself we took part and observed those hundred years of Czech history up close. My Father studied engineering in Brno in the 1930s, since he was not allowed to study in his native Poland as a Jew. He had many Czech friends during his studies and sadly returned to Czechoslovakia as a prisoner of the Theresienstadt Concentration Camp. After leaving Poland in 1967, I remember the ecstasy of the Prague Spring and the horror of the Invasion, the Velvet Revolution and my meetings with President Vaclav HavelFind albums by this artist during the dark days in prison and the happy days in the Prague Castle. His love of music and Jazz in particular strengthened our bond. Hearing his voice on this album was profoundly poignant. My thanks to all the people involved in creating this wonderful project!

Updated: 25/02/2021Posted: 25/02/2021

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RADEK BABORAK / ORQUESTRINA ~ CUATROCIENTAS ESTACIONES DE ASTOR PIAZZOLLA ANIMAL MUSIC 092 (Barcode: 8594155998807) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Classical Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021 This is an album by Czech French horn player / arranger / bandleader Radek BaborakFind albums by this artist and his OrquestrinaFind albums by this artist ensemble, which consists of French horn, bass clarinet, a string section and a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums) on all tracks (except the fifth), and additionally vibraphone on the first four tracks, and harp, bassoon and French horn quartet on the last remaining three tracks. The fifth track features a quintet of French horn, viola, cello, bass and piano. The album presents eight compositions by the Argentinean composer Astor PiazzollaFind albums by this artist, four of which are collectively known as “Cuatro Estaciones Portenas” (Eng. The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires), composed between 1965 and 1970, and additional four unconnected pieces composed between 1959 and 1982. The music was beautifully recorded at the Sono Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. Piazzolla remains to me as one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted 20th Century composers. His commonly known association with the Tango, which was hardly considered as an Art Form by Classically oriented music critics, pushed his musical vision and enormous talent into a “comfort niche” of curiosity, rather than serious musical achievement. But anybody familiar enough with Piazzolla’s music knows, that Tango was his inspiration, but it never limited his compositional skills and soaring imagination and he was able to create not only some of the most expressive and passionate, but also most sophisticated music ever. This beautiful album is a wonderfully aesthetic attempt to transpose Piazzolla’s music into the European territory, taking it closer to “conventional” Classical approach, without losing any of its beauty, passion and uniqueness. Baborak boldly and very cleverly changes the instrumentation, taking completely away the bandoneon and replacing it by the French horn, two instruments so different and yet apparently bridgeable by an open-minded arranger. Piazzolla’s close relationship with Jazz can be also clearly heard here, although more subtly than the Classical flavor. Baborak’s French horn performances and the brilliant idea of using a French horn quartet in the last three pieces are tremendously rewarding, adding a brass presence that is rarely heard in the Tango idiom. But of course all the musicians involved are superb instrumentalist and highly sensitive musicians. This album is another striking example of the brilliant work done by the Czech record label Animal MusicFind albums on this label, under the imaginative direction of its owner Petr OstrouchovFind albums by this artist, who is obviously one of the most open-minded and dedicated music producers in Europe these days. For Tango lovers this is obviously an absolute must have, offering one of the most original interpretations of Piazzolla’s music ever attempted, but every sensitive music lover should find this album highly fulfilling. The superb sound quality turns it into a euphoric listening experience. Hats off!

Updated: 23/04/2021Posted: 23/04/2021

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TOMAS SYKORA ~ SONGS FOR ORCHESTRA ANIMAL MUSIC 093 (Barcode: 8594155997213) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Pop-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021 This is an album by Czech pianist / composer Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist, a member of The Prague SixFind albums by this artist composers group. It presents a live concert recording of a Jazz quartet with Sykora, saxophonist David FranekFind albums by this artist, bassist Tomas LiskaFind albums by this artist and drummer Roman VichaFind albums by this artist with the Prague Radio Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist conducted by Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist. The music includes Jazz-Classical Fusion arrangements of three pieces: a composition by veteran Czech Jazz pianist / composer Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, a five-part suite composed by Sykora and a suite composed by saxophonist / composer Karel Ruzicka Jr.Find albums by this artist, the son of Ruzicka Senior, based on his compositions for the album “Grace & GratitudeFind albums with this title”, compiled and arranged by Sykora. The music is beautifully melodic and full of Eastern European melancholy, which of course is hardly surprising. Although composed by three very different composers, the amalgam with the orchestral arrangements and the spirit driving the music manages to create a coherent, well-structured musical experience, which is aesthetically pleasing. Despite the fact that many symphonic Jazz projects end up as complete failures, this project is perfectly able to defend the very idea that such joint ventures can be both viable and rewarding. Sykora manages to create a very delicate balance between the quartet parts and the orchestral parts, which is very tricky. The transitions between the Jazz quartet performances and the Classical orchestra ones are smooth and logical and offer a natural development. Personally I admire Balcarova, who manages to make the symphonic orchestra to sound at times much closer to a Jazz Big Band than a Classical orchestra, which is very rarely achieved – beautifully done indeed. Even the “Grace & Gratitude” material sounds way more attractive than the original album version, which sadly lacked any originality. With the new arrangements the music feels alive and comes back to its Cultural home, where it belongs. Overall this is a wonderful album, which manages to create a consistent bridge between Jazz and Classical Music, avoiding all the kitschy traps that often imperil such efforts. It offers beautiful music, superbly arranged and splendidly executed, which should keep all lovers of such cross-genre explorations totally satisfied. Despite the fact that the music was recorded live, it offers wonderful sound quality and separation, as usual with Animal MusicFind albums on this label releases, which are an epitome of European elegance and grace, made the Czech way – hats off!

Updated: 05/08/2021Posted: 05/08/2021

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NIKOL BOKOVA ~ PROMETHEUS ANIMAL MUSIC 094 (Barcode: 8594155997206) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021 This is the third album by Czech Jazz pianist / composer Nikol BokovaFind albums by this artist recorded with an impressive team of Czech musicians: French horn player Radek BaborakFind albums by this artist, guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, Maestro Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist on bass and finally drummer Michal WierzgonFind albums by this artist. The album offers ten original compositions, all by the leader. The music was recorded at the excellent SONO Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, with the usual spectacular sound quality. The music on this album shows another step in Bokova’s artistic development, which seems to have found the necessary focus this time, based on solid melodic themes, which serve as basis for the superb improvisations by the quintet members. The French horn is a link to her Classical Music ties, and adds a nice touch to the entire sound produced by the quintet, supplying a melancholic, almost orchestral layer. Doruzka is the most impressive / intensive soloist, creating some unearthly beautiful phrases, which leaves Bokova to state the melodies and harmonize, soloing rather sparingly. Honzak is in charge of the rhythmic background, safe in his steady hands, masterly filling the blanks, and Wierzgon adds subtle drum parts, which are more coloristic than actually rhythmical. Most of the tracks are rather short and the entire album lasts for only slightly over forty minutes, which reflects the minimalist approach of the complete statement that Bokova wishes to leave the listen with. There are many understatements in the music, leaving the listener to fill the blanks; an approach often used by contemporary young Jazz Artists. Of course the assumption that the listeners will stand up to the challenge is not without its risks. Overall, it is satisfying to see / hear Bokova finding her own aesthetics and direction, following a rather hesitative start of her Jazz adventure. This album is certainly a fruit of maturity and dedication, wonderfully balancing her roots and making a unique statement, which is a joy to listen to from start to finish. With the help of some of the best European musicians, she certainly reached a save harbor this time. Well done!

Updated: 24/02/2023Posted: 02/08/2022

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ANETA MAJEROVA ~ MIECZYSLAW WEINBERG: CHILDREN`S NOTEBOOKS ANIMAL MUSIC 096 (Barcode: 8594155997299) ~ SLOVAKIA ~ Classical Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021 This is a solo piano album by Slovak pianist Aneta MajerovaFind albums by this artist, who performs three cycles of short piano pieces, called “Children’s Notebooks”, by Polish / Jewish composer Mieczyslaw WeinbergFind albums by this artist (well he was never really Mieczyslaw, but Moses or Mojsze). Weinberg, who was born in Poland in 1919, graduated from the Warsaw Conservatory in 1939 and escaped the Nazi invasion fleeing to Russia soon after, while his entire family perished in concentration camps. When WWII was over, Weinberg decided to stay in Russia, and continued his illustrious career as a composer there. He was a close friend of Dmitri ShostakovichFind albums by this artist and the two were in daily contact. Weinberg died in 1996 and left a sublime legacy of modern Classical Music, which is still waiting to be discovered by the world. His life story could be a subject of an epic movie, and his music in a bottomless treasure chest of marvels. The three cycles included on this album are his relatively early works (opus 16, 19 and 23 from 1944-45), but are astonishingly mature and diverse, expressing his early influences, including some of Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist’s lyricism and Polish Folklore nuances, but already showing his modernist compositional approach. Majerova recorded already Weinberg’s Piano Quintet on her earlier release for Animal MusicFind albums on this label, but recordings of his music are criminally few and far between. Overall, this is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the music of one of the greatest 20th Century Classical Music composers, hopefully opening a window for future explorations of his music. The music is brilliantly performed and recorded and every true music lover should be absolutely delighted by listening to it. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 21/12/2024Posted: 17/10/2022

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DOROTA BAROVA ~ DOTYK ANIMAL MUSIC 100 (Barcode: 8594155997312) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021 This is the second album by Czech vocalist / cellist / songwriter Dorota BarovaFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Miroslav ChyskaFind albums by this artist, bassist Milos KlapsteFind albums by this artist and vocalist Jan JakubecFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original songs, all composed by Barova, five of which have also lyrics written her and one each features lyrics by Polish poetess Teresa DrozdaFind albums by this artist and poet Krzysztof Kamil BaczynskiFind albums by this artist. All the lyrics are in Polish language, a language Barova inherited from her Mother. The album continues the unique aesthetic climate of the beautiful Barova’s debut album, presenting minimalist approach which puts the vocals and their lyrics in the center of attention, with the instrumental accompaniment being somewhat subordinate, but absolutely not of lesser importance. Although the music is not Jazz oriented per se, it has a strong Jazz undercurrent and therefore it does belong, as far as I am concerned, to the Jazz & Poetry idiom. The music is very melodic, albeit the melody lines are often quite complex and quirky, which of course requires dedicated, attentive listening in order to follow the twists and turns, those being further complicated by the instrumental accompaniment. However, despite all that complexity, the result is able to flow smoothly and often gently, letting the listener to absorb the lyrics as well. Barova clearly manages to create a consistent sonic environment, which suits her ideally. Preferring the “less is more” modus operandi, she is able to create music, which speaks strongly, even penetratingly, despite the low volume and subdued expressionist, which is masterly achieved by her and her companions. Overall, this is a beautiful album, which is a coherent follow up to her debut and establishes her as a musical figure worth being followed closely. As most Jazz & Poetry albums, this one can be enjoyed perfectly by audiences beyond the language barrier, with the lyrics serving as a bonus to native speakers of Slavic languages. This is an absolutely delightful piece of music, which seams as an island of sanity in this crazy world we live in. Thank you, Milady, for your talent and dedication!

Updated: 10/10/2022Posted: 10/10/2022

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VERTIGO ~ NIC ANIMAL MUSIC 107 (Barcode: 8594211850100) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Avant-Garde Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is the eighth album by Czech / Slovak Jazz ensemble VertigoFind albums by this artist, which comprises of saxophonist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Oskar TorokFind albums by this artist, cellist Dorota BarovaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vojtech ProchazkaFind albums by this artist, bassist Rastislav UhrikFind albums by this artist and drummer Daniel SoltisFind albums by this artist. The album presents fourteen original compositions; eight by Barta, two by Prochazka, one by Uhrik and three collective improvisations. The music was recorded at the Sono Records studio and engineered by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, with the usual stunning sound quality. The music is a sublime amalgam of cross-genre explorations, including contemporary Jazz, Chamber Classical Music, some Rock / Fusion elements and everything in between, completely shunning any simplistic definitions. Perfectly melodic at one moment, it becomes almost Improvised Music at the next, taking the listener on a see-saw journey of epic proportions. This music remains definitely a breath of fresh air with its chutzpah and seemingly complete disregard of conventionalism or populism. As a result, the listener gets exposed to something different with each track on the album and yet the entire continuity preserves an aesthetic coherence, despite the diversity. The emphasis on creating an ensemble sound rather than featuring expressive soloing is typical of contemporary European music, and Vertigo functions perfectly within that realm. The ominous title (“nothing” in English) reflects well the emptiness of the contemporary non-culture, which dominates our lives, and perhaps suggests how the void can be filled by something else, with a tinge of pessimism attached. Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the Vertigo legacy, now twenty years in existence, filling our hearts with hope for the future. As long as European music has ensembles like Vertigo creating music, not all is lost. This album is well beyond recommendation; it is an absolute must to every true music connoisseur anywhere on this planet, as are in fact all their earlier recordings. This is bloodcurdling (in the best meaning of the word) stuff!

Updated: 05/10/2022Posted: 05/10/2022

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ TWENTIES ANIMAL MUSIC 111 (Barcode: 8594211850131) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is the eleventh album as a leader by Czech Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist, recorded with his stable quintet, which includes also saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin NovakFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Honzak. The music was recorded at the fabulous SONO Records studio, engineered by Adam KarlikFind albums by this artist and mixed by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, with the usual spectacular sound quality. I waited through the entire Covid period for this album with great anticipation, as Honzak’s music has a magic effect on me with its intrinsic tranquility and almost stoic unobtrusive peacefulness, which all of us desperately lacked when the world was going mad. Well, the world is still very much insane, but at least now the music is here to console. Honzak is a great songweaver and his melodies go always straight to one’s heart. Although the music is brilliantly performed by the quintet members, it just wouldn’t be enough to achieve its full effect without those melancholic themes underlying everything, leading the listeners subconsciously on the emotional plane. Even when the music is highly improvised and less melodic per se, it still is able to bond the listener to the flow, almost involuntarily. This album is perhaps the most Ambient / Electronic in its character, more than all Honzak’s earlier recordings, possibly an echo of his innermost fears and insecurities, that we all share. The musicians playing here are amongst the finest European instrumentalist out there. Doruzka (or the “young” Doruzka, as I call him) is absolutely phenomenal, growing and developing with every new album he plays on, being most probably one of the finest guitar players today. His role on this album is central and his playing sublime, which makes me very happy as he worked extremely hard to get where he is now. Soukup, Kristian and Novak create layers upon layers of sound, which fill the entire sonic space with dense, but not obtrusive contents, and concentrate less on soloing, which of course does not diminish their contribution. The leader’s bass playing is as expressive, imaginative and virtuosic as always. It is extremely difficult to comprehend how Honzak manages to consistently create such exquisite albums, one after another, but it is simply an undeniable reality. Overall, this is another masterpiece by the Czech Giant, who unwaveringly amazes with his quiet, humble and seemingly simple music, which is able to move proverbial mountains. This music penetrates deeper with every listening session, enabling the attentive listener to discover new hidden treasures time after time. I can do nothing but to raise the proverbial hat in deep respect for these eloquent, wonderful musicians and their fearless leader. Thank you for the music, my Friends!

Updated: 19/02/2023Posted: 19/02/2023

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MACHINA MUNDI ~ MACHINA MUNDI ANIMAL MUSIC 112 (Barcode: 8594211850117) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is the debut album by the Machina MundiFind albums by this artist quartet, led by Czech saxophonist / clarinetist / composer Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, who has been living in Copenhagen in the last decade. He teamed up with Swedish keyboardist William LarssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Daniel JohanssonFind albums by this artist and Canadian bassist Graig EarleFind albums by this artist, former schoolmates from the local Rhythmic Music Conservatory, one of the most popular Jazz schools in Europe. The album presents seven original compositions, all by Soukup. The music is wonderful example of modern European Jazz, which offers splendid atmospheric compositions and superb performances by the quartet members. Soukup is an excellent melody weaver and his lyrical, almost nostalgic themes are truly irresistible. The compositional layer of this album is fascinating all the way through. The quartet performances are extremely delicate, masterly balanced between the leading clarinet / saxophone statements, the layers of electric piano / synthesizer effects, which provide the ideal binding matter for the music and the highly dynamic, almost Funky rhythm section. The music often changes the dynamics within one tune, which keeps the listener on edge for the entire duration. The album manages to create a unique, almost mysterious atmosphere, suitable for cinematic enhancement, which goes directly to the innermost emotional center of the listener, while tickling his intellectual / cerebral sensors at the same time. Overall, this is a wonderful album, full of great music and beautiful playing, which offers a fascinating listening experience with no dull moments. It offers a highly aesthetic listening experience, at times intriguing and at time soothing, which leaves the listener wishing for more, when the music is over. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 27/02/2023Posted: 27/02/2023

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TOMAS SYKORA TRIO & AID KID ~ ALCHEMY ANIMAL MUSIC 114 (Barcode: 8594211850216) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Ambient Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is an album by the Czech Jazz pianist / composer Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Tomas LiskaFind albums by this artist and drummer Roman VichaFind albums by this artist, augmented by the electronics artist Aid KidFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Ondra MikulaFind albums by this artist). The album presents nine tracks, all original compositions by Sykora. The music is a highly exciting and innovative piece of contemporary Jazz, fused with electronics, which results in a fresh, up to date sound and feel, sometimes close to contemporary electronic Pop music, but still very much within the Jazz territory, with extensive improvisations by the leader and vigorous support by the slick rhythm section. Sykora plays both acoustic piano and synthesizers, but the listener is surrounded by an electric perception, as a result of the electronic layers, electric bass and synthesizer parts. Yet the result manages to retain a solid melodic background and continuity, which keeps the music within a clearly harmonic environment, not crossing over to the Pop, Dance, Techno and Trance idioms. Some Jazz purist my find this music too far removed from the Jazz tradition, but let’s keep in mind that Sykora has already proven his Jazz background beyond any doubt and this experimentation is nothing else but an attempt to discover new areas of interest, without compromising quality or aesthetic values. Overall, this is an interesting and innovative attempt to amalgamate Jazz and electronic music, based on a set of highly melodic compositions, excellently executed by the participating musicians. Perhaps not universally appealing to the broad Jazz audiences, but highly interesting to the younger listeners, who are exposed to electronic sounds on a daily basis and should find this music familiar enough to explore it further. Definitely worth investigating!

Updated: 19/08/2023Posted: 19/08/2023

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JAZZ DOCK ORCHESTRA ~ TONIGHT ANIMAL MUSIC 116 (Barcode: 8594211850209) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is the debut album by the Czech Jazz Dock OrchestraFind albums by this artist, a full scale Big Band of the Prague Jazz Dock club, founded in 2018 and co-led by British (resident in Prague) saxophonist / composer Andy SchofieldFind albums by this artist and Czech trombonist / composer Jan JiruchaFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded live at the club and presents six original compositions, four of which were composed by Schofield and two by Jirucha. The music is an example of excellent modern Jazz, based on complex melodic themes, intricately arranged for the orchestra, which offers a highly unusual sound and aesthetic approach, which can only happen in Europe, where Big Bands are treated in many unconventional ways, creating music related to but distinctly different from the America Big Band tradition. The balance between the instrumental sections, the soloing, the arrangements and most of all the treatment of the orchestra as an organic multi-headed musical organism, rather than a collection of musicians playing together from the charts, is especially significant here. Spiced with very unusual pulsations by the rhythm section, which are high in the mix and often “around” the time rather than right on time, the music creates an interesting and unusual result, which takes time to get into, but is exceedingly effective. Of course the individual contributions by the orchestra members are all perfectly spotless. The orchestral arrangements are all a true work of Art: original, sophisticated and surprising at every step, which could serve as a school example of what can be achieved in the idiom. With all my experience and love of orchestral Jazz, this album managed to surprise me constantly, which is definitely something that does not happen very often. Overall, this is a very interesting and unusual orchestral / Big Band recording, one of the best that came across my desk lately, which might prove somewhat challenging to listeners used to the American variety, but grows on the patient listener with every listening session. The Czech players are among the European most inventive Jazz artists, which this album proves beyond any reasonable doubt. Fascinating stuff!

Updated: 21/01/2024Posted: 21/01/2024

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STEPANKA BALCAROVA ~ EMOTIONS ANIMAL MUSIC 117 (Barcode: 8594211850247) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is an album by Czech Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Stepanka BalcarovaFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic quartet setting with Czech bassist Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist and Polish pianist Nikola KolodziejczykFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz MaslowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by Balcarova. This is only the third album by Balcarova as a leader, but she has quite a remarkable recording legacy already, which includes albums by the Concept Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist (4 albums), which she leads, as well as the Czech / Polish Inner SpacesFind albums by this artist quintet (3 albums), all recorded since 2010 and all quite noteworthy, which makes her a busy bee of the local scene. This album offers a double focus: Balcarova’s trumpet playing, which is more prominent here than on any of her previous recordings, as well as her superb compositional talent, which is of course already her trademark. This is also her most relaxed, intimate and perhaps also mature statement to date, after reaching a point in her career, where she does not need to prove anything anymore, and is free just to express her innermost self. The music is mostly very introvert and lyrical, almost romantic at times, with gentle melodic themes floating in the air, waiting for ears willing to get enchanted. The minimalist format of the quartet is ideal for the music and the wonderful team supports the leader superbly, with Kolodziejczyk delicate harmonic support and brief and well-structured soli balancing the melodic layer and of course Honzak on bass, the anchor able to hold any musical ship steady, is there at all times with his round, solid notes, with Maslowski delicate rhythmic support always there when needed and silent, when not essential, a rare quality among drummers. As all Animal Music releases, this album offers a wonderfully warm and perfect sound quality, achieved by the masterful Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist, which makes listening to the music a true pleasure. Overall, this is another beautiful album in Balcarova’s treasure chest, which is a sublime sonic experience and uplifting aesthetic adventure for every true Jazz lover on this planet. It might take more than just a brief listening exposure to discover the depth and gorgeousness of this music, but patience is a virtue and the reward is absolutely worth the effort. Thank you Milady, as usual, for this gift of music!

Updated: 12/08/2023Posted: 12/08/2023

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DORUZKA / FISCHMANN / NOVAK ~ GILGUL ANIMAL MUSIC 119 (Barcode: 8594211850261) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is an album by the Czech Jazz trio comprising of guitarist / composer David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, flautist / vocalist / composer Robert FischmannFind albums by this artist and drummer / percussionist Martin NovakFind albums by this artist. Three additional players participate on selected tracks: clarinetist / saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, bass clarinetist / saxophonist Marcel BartaFind albums by this artist and trombonist Stepan JanousekFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, which include a four-part suite and a three-part suite, six of which are traditional Jewish / Hassidic melodies arranged by Fischmann, four are original compositions by Fischmann, two are by Doruzka and one is co-composed by all three trio members. Jewish music has been an important source of inspiration in contemporary Jazz, which I had an opportunity to witness closely as the Musical Director of the Singer Jazz Festival hold in Warsaw during the last decade. Some of those attempts to combine the genres were truly inspirational and impressive, others often suffered from opportunism and chalturism due to complete lack of understanding of the Cultural background and spirituality of the Jewish and Hassidic traditions. I an extremely happy to see that this beautiful album belongs to the former category. The music offers an intimate, completely acoustic and delicate treatments of traditional material, intertwined with original compositions, which match the overall atmosphere and spirit of the entire project. Most of the tracks are performed by the trio, but five offer an extended sextet arrangement, which is somewhat more Jazz oriented than the rest of the pieces, but again stay within the intimate and highly lyrical mood. There is definitely a strong dose of Easter European lyricism and melancholy involved as well. Although there are plenty of individual solos, the music is definitely more about the concept and overall message than about display of instrumental virtuosity. Fischmann’s flute work dominates the proceedings, as the leading melodic compass, with Doruzka supplying the harmonic layers and soloing occasionally, and the wonderfully sensitive drumming by Novak keeps the music flowing gently but firmly from one tune to another. The album offers a written essay by Fischmann, which explains the sources and inspirations for the individual songs, as well as the religious concept of transmigration of souls, which gives the album its title, and which is not unique to the Jewish tradition, but plays an important role in some of the Hassidic streams. On a personal note, I’d like to mention that this music is somewhat in the same spiritual sphere as the music by the excellent Polish Jazz trio BastardaFind albums by this artist, which I wholeheartedly recommend. Overall, this is beautiful and deeply moving album, which deserves to be heard by all music lovers, also those beyond the strict Jazz circles. As usual, the superb sound quality and production by the Animal MusicFind albums on this label label is as perfect as one might hope for, for which I am, as usual, grateful. Grab a copy as soon as possible!

Updated: 18/10/2023Posted: 18/10/2023

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ALF CARLSSON / JIRI KOTACA QUARTET ~ OUR STORIES ANIMAL MUSIC 123 (Barcode: 8594211850377) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024 This is the 2nd album by the quartet co-led by Swedish guitarist Alf CarlssonFind albums by this artist and Czech trumpeter Jiri KotacaFind albums by this artist, with bassist Peter KormanFind albums by this artist and drummer Kristian KurucFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, four by Carlsson, three by Kotaca, one co-composed by them both and finally one improvised by Korman. The music was beautifully recorded at the Sono Records studio by Milan CimfeFind albums by this artist. The music is a splendid collection of modern Jazz pieces, which combine deep Nordic melancholy and East European lyricysm, performed with finesse and obvious talent by all four musicians. The rather unusual guitar – trumpet front line works beautifully together, and the rhythm section is fully integrated in the common creative process, providing smooth quidelines for the two soloist to fill them with their improvisations. Carlson offers a wonderfully diverse stylistics, switching intelligently between playing chords and individual notes, as well as between soloing and accompanying, with remarkable dexterity and skill. His guitar playing is subtle and non-aggressive, and yet very well-articulated at all times, and I wish more guitar players would adopt this attitude. He is definitely a player worth keeping an eye (ear) on. Kotaca also offers outstanding trumpet performances, with brilliant technique and precise, clear peach, all full of romanticism and melodic fluidity. His sound is somewhat different from most Jazz trumpeters, which is quite rare these days, and he is, as well, definitely worth following. From what I see on the web, he also leads a Big Band, but I have not heard any of that stuff! Overall, this is an excellent Jazz album, which should satisfy even the most demanding listeners, which offers great compositions, highly elegant performances and truly breathtaking sound quality, i.e. everything one might desire in a piece of music. Not to be missed!

Updated: 26/05/2024Posted: 26/05/2024

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HLASKONTRABAS OKTET ~ KALEIDOSCAPES ANIMAL MUSIC 125 (Barcode: 8594211850445) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024 This is an album by the Czech ensemble Hlaskontrabas OktetFind albums by this artist, comprising of four female vocalists (Ridina AhmedovaFind albums by this artist, Alice BauerFind albums by this artist, Mirka NovakFind albums by this artist and Marketa ZdenkovaFind albums by this artist) and four bassists (Ondrej KomarekFind albums by this artist, Tomas LiskaFind albums by this artist, Ondrej StajnochrFind albums by this artist and Petr TichyFind albums by this artist), i.e. a vocal-bass octet, as the name suggest. The album presents nine compositions commissioned by the octet from several composers hailing from Czech Republic, Norway, Island and Israel. The music offers a wordless vocalese (with one exception, when a Buddha quote is used as lyrics) sung by the vocalist, which offers a choir effect, and accompanied by the bass players, who play conventionally (i.e. plucking or bowing) as well as use the bass to produce percussive sounds. The combined effect is absolutely stunning, original and innovative, and to be honest I am not surprised to see this album released by the superb Czech Animal MusicFind albums on this label label, which is true worldwide pioneer in every aspect of recording music, including the brilliant sound quality their records offer. Stylistically the music is of course strongly Jazz oriented, as the melodic themes are performed by the vocal quartet with a high degree of improvisation, and the basses provide a strong rhythmic accompaniment. But a more attentive listening reveals many World Music elements and of course strong Classical Music influences – in short a true musical kaleidoscope. The album reflects the European aesthetics at its most profound level, with each and every aspect of this music deeply contemplated, meticulously planned, and finally put together with care and at the time panache and flair, as appropriate for “high culture” one should to strive for. In many respects this album brings back fond memories of the great vocal ensembles, such as Vocal SummitFind albums by this artist, but this time combined with the unfamiliar / wild bass quartet, as additional flavoring, creating one of the most exciting results in vocal Jazz, of a level not heard in many years. Overall, this is one of the most profound and aesthetically gratifying albums that landed on my desk since quite a while. This is completely universal music, co completely cross-genre and mystifyingly encompassing Artistic values, that it leaves me overwhelmingly speechless (contrary to the fact that I am writing about it). I am deeply grateful to Petr OstrouchovFind albums by this artist and Natalia OstrouchovaFind albums by this artist (the couple behind Animal Music) for their consistency, dedication and sublimely great taste. You make this world a better place!

Updated: 20/05/2024Posted: 20/05/2024

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JAROMIR HONZAK ~ THE BLUES OF A STRING HANGING IN THE WIND ANIMAL MUSIC 127 (Barcode: 8594211850452) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024 This is the 12th album by Czech Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Jaromir HonzakFind albums by this artist, recorded with his regular quintet, with includes saxophonist Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, guitarist David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, pianist Vit KristanFind albums by this artist and drummer Martin NovakFind albums by this artist, and the Prague Radio Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist, conducted by Bastien StilFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, which are in fact parts of a suite for Jazz quintet and Symphonic Orchestra, all composed by Honzak. The music was recorded live and offers an exceptional sound quality, as all Animal MusicFind albums on this label releases. Life is full of surprises, sometimes very pleasant ones, and writing about this album is one of them, as only a couple of days ago I wrote about another album, which is not only of very similar nature but also features almost identical lineup, both originating from the Czech Republic (see the “Scandinavian ImpressionsFind albums with this title” album by Soukup). Despite the obvious similarities, these two albums are also very different musically, which is even more wonderful. It is not a secret that Honzak is one of my favorite European bass players, but even more so composers. His music is always absolutely breathtaking, and despite its complexity, it manages to be superbly coherent and melodic. Here, with the additional layer of orchestral arrangements (by Tomas SykoraFind albums by this artist) on top of the Jazz quintet performances, the music is even more dense and intricate than usual, and yet, as usual, it is almost clairvoyant in its intellectual verity and emotional strength. The two layers, Jazz and orchestral, complement one another perfectly, but rather oddly, whereas Honzak uses the orchestra to expand the rhythmic and even improvisational nature of the music, rather than only support the harmonic / melodic elements, which is the usual modus operandi applied in most Jazz-Classical Fusion ventures, and as such this album stands out in its originality. It goes without saying that the quintet’s performances are nothing short of stellar, as expected. Soukup is in charge of the melody lines, leading the proceedings like the pied piper of Hamelin, Doruzka spices the mixture with his tasteful chords and strings of notes, Kristan sets the harmonic base and Novak tastefully sets the paste of things. And Honzak, like always, stands firmly, like the ship’s mast, in the epicenter of the music at all times, making sure everything works, as it is supposed to. Overall, Honzak delivers again a sublime piece of music, which offers a fascinating emotional journey, and which swipes the listener off his feet the minute the music starts, and never lets go. I can’t imagine anybody who loves music not to like this album, even if it sounds somewhat strange at the first moment. This is some of the finest music one can come across these days, and it should not be missed by whatever excuse. And yes, if you listen carefully, the Blues is there…

Updated: 12/08/2024Posted: 12/08/2024

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