Record Reviews
255 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ALOFT QUARTET ~ FIRST YEAR
AMP 020 (Barcode: 662578831143) ~ DENMARK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the debut album by a young Scandinavian Jazz quartet called Aloft QuartetFind albums by this artist, which comprises of Danish saxophonist Simon BalvigFind albums by this artist, Danish pianist Rasmus SorensenFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Jon HenrikssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Amund KleppanFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, four by Balvig, two by Henriksson and one each by Sorenson and Kleppan.
The music sits well within the modern mainstream melodic Jazz idiom, spiced with the Scandinavian flair full of melancholy and lyricism and distinct sound ambience a la ECMFind albums on this label. The tunes are all well structured and coherent harmonically, which turns listening to the album into a pleasant experience.
The individual performances are all solid and technically perfect. Balvig is especially impressive on the baritone sax, Sorensen plays wonderful arpeggios and is exquisitely melodic, Henriksson is also very melodic and solid, keeping the quartet together and Kleppan is a versatile and precise rhythm keeper. Together the quartet sounds like a well oiled music machine, which considering the young age of these musicians is praiseworthy.
Overall this is a promising debut album, which shows lots of potential for the future. The level of the young musicians today is constantly getting higher and debut albums are often hardly distinguishable from those recorded by veterans. Definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 16/02/2018Posted: 16/02/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | NILASALIN ~ NILASALIN
AMP 021 (Barcode: 662578831150) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the debut album by Norwegian Jazz quintet NilasaliNFind albums by this artist, which consists of trombonist Nils Andreas GransethFind albums by this artist, guitarist Magnus Jonnum GrimnesFind albums by this artist, pianist Martin Sandvik GjerdeFind albums by this artist, bassist Stian Andreas Egeland AndersenFind albums by this artist and drummer Magnus Sefaniassen EideFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, seven composed by Granseth and one each by Andersen, Gjerde and Grimnes.
The music is a highly melodic modern European Jazz, with an unusual trombone / guitar front line, which creates a unique ambience. As it often happens with Norwegian bands, the wonderful calm and minimalistic atmosphere presides over the entire proceeding, with every note played exactly in its proper place and perfectly in harmony with everything else that is happening around. Introvert and melancholic, the beautiful melodies develop slowly and reveal layer after layer of harmonic aesthetics.
The individual performances by the quintet members are also superb from start to finish. Granseth, who obviously steers the music and is the main soloist, has an exquisite trombone sound, round and velvety, which in spite of its limitations proves to be completely in charge and able to play anything between long melodic lines and virtuosic arpeggios, when appropriate. Grimnes plays very tasty licks and manages to stay within the Jazz idiom, avoiding the Fusion excursions. Gjerde is wonderfully dynamic and plays excellent accompaniment behind the soloists as well as splendid solos. Andersen builds a solid layer upon which the music slides forward effortlessly, always there at the right time, with round and confident pulsations. Eide stays most of the time in the background, with his delicate but sophisticated rhythmic support, which is ideal for this music.
Overall this is an astounding debut album, full of superb music and exquisite performances, which offers an unusual sound ambience and continues the Nordic Jazz tradition at its best. The elegance, sophistication and class present herein are simply mind blowing. The album was exceptionally recorded and the sound quality is simply breathtaking. This is definitely one of the best albums that landed on my desk so far in 2018 and to my adversaries I say again – this blows most ECMFind albums on this label albums out of the window, just listen!
| | Updated: 07/04/2018Posted: 07/04/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SLOW IS THE NEW FAST ~ SLOW
AMP 027 (Barcode: 662578831204) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the debut album by young Norwegian Jazz quintet Slow Is The New FastFind albums by this artist, which comprises of trumpeter Lyder Ovreas RoedFind albums by this artist, violinist Hans Palsen KjorstadFind albums by this artist, pianist Bjorn-Even Bjarkli VerbekeFind albums by this artist, bassist Joel RingFind albums by this artist (from Sweden) and drummer Tore LjokelsoyFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, eight by Roed and one by Verbeke.
The music is melodic, but open enough to allow complex improvising structures. It amalgamates many influences, like most of young European Jazz today, starting with the Jazz tradition but embracing Folklore and contemporary Classical trends. One of the compositions is dedicated to the famous Polish Classical composer Henryk GoreckiFind albums by this artist, which defines in a way the frame of mind this music was created in. The music is mostly low key and melancholic, but at all times absorbing and fascinating.
The individual performances are all excellent, again as usual with the young European Jazz musicians. The use of violin, which is still quite rare today, influences the quintet general sound and atmosphere and is definitely a very interesting choice. But all three soloists deliver both interesting solo statements and first class collective playing. The rhythm section supports the music amicably, with the bass playing a more dominant role than the drums, which are mostly delicate and just right for this kind of music.
Overall the album has a very ECMFind albums on this label-like sound and atmosphere (and I mean ECM in the seventies, when it was really creative and daring). This album is definitely a very impressive debut, full of inspiration and talent, which shows enormous potential for the future, as well as the strength of the young Norwegian Jazz scene, which keeps producing consistently great music in the last decade. I am already looking forward to the next album by this quintet.
| | Updated: 03/10/2018Posted: 03/10/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOB BROOKMEYER & KENNY WHEELER ~ ISLAND
ARTISTS HOUSE 0006 (Barcode: 827867000628) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is a wonderful and criminally little known album by American trombonist Bob BrookmeyerFind albums by this artist and British (of Canadian origin) trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with American (of Finnish origin) pianist Frank CarlbergFind albums by this artist, bassist Jeremy AllenFind albums by this artist and drummer John HollenbeckFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, four by Wheeler and three by Brookmeyer. The CD comes accompanied by a bonus DVD, which includes high resolution mixes, a documentary about the recording, Artists interviews and other goodies.
This is the first cooperation between Brookmeyer and Wheeler, but the obvious mutual respect and affinity, combined by extensive experience, results in a superb dialogue between the two, which culminates in the duo improvisations but is present throughout the album´s entire duration. The excellent rhythm section is ideally suited to put the two veterans on the foreground but support them superbly with unobtrusive performance, which includes elegant soloing.
The music is all within mainstream Jazz idiom, soaked with the typical Wheeler´s melancholy, which is instantly recognizable in his compositions and Brookmeyer´s cool, which dominates his compositions. All the compositions fit ideally into a coherent whole, which reflects the Jazz aesthetics at its best, as well as the many years of experience these two Masters share.
Although perhaps somewhat less challenging than Wheeler´s European recordings (on ECMFind albums on this label and other European labels), this music is by no means less elegant or artistically fulfilling, displaying simply another facet of his Jazz universe. I can´t imagine any true Wheeler connoisseur who could consider not having this superb album on his collection.
Overall this is an absolute marvel of an album, which should keep every Jazz lover on this planet happy. Sadly this is extremely difficult to find these days, but absolutely worth the effort!
| | Updated: 30/06/2020Posted: 30/06/2020 | CD+DVD 2 Audiophile Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANKO – MAKOWICZ UNIT ~ STANKO – MAKOWICZ UNIT FEATURING CZESLAW BARTKOWSKI
B.FREE 6097 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the little known album by the Polish Jazz ensemble Stanko – Makowicz UnitFind albums by this artist, released originally by a small independent German label JGFind albums on this label Records. It is one of the two albums this ensemble recorded, the other one being the eponymous album released by the legendary Polish label PoljazzFind albums on this label, which to this day was not reissued on CD. On this album the ensemble is a trio with Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist on electric piano and Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist on drums, whereas the Poljazz album was recorded by a quartet with Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist on bass. Both albums have a completely different set of tunes on them. On this album the ensemble performs seven tunes, two each by Stanko and Makowicz, one credited to all three members of the ensemble and the remaining two being standards one each by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. The album´s artwork does not specify the date or place of the recording, except for stating that it was recorded in 1975, same as the Poljazz album. Since there is no applause one can assume it is a studio recording. Chronologically this album was recorded shortly before Stanko recorded his first album for ECMFind albums on this label ("BalladynaFind albums with this title" recorded December 1975), which was the jumpstart of his international career.
The music is typical of Stanko´s mid 1970s period, which marked his beautiful amalgamation of melody and Free Jazz excursions, dominated by his "dirty" hoarse sound, which was his trademark for many years. Makowicz, who was one of the leading pianists on the Polish scene at the time, before he left for the US, was an ideal partner for Stanko in this particular setup, using the electric piano he embraced while being a member of the Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist´s Fusion groups. Bartkowski, also a leading figure on the Polish scene, was a Master drummer and felt perfectly comfortable in any stylistic setting, supports the duo amicably.
Although the recording quality and the overall sound of this album is not as good as one might have hoped for, it is definitely perfectly acceptable, in contrast to what some "critics" wrote about this album over time. The same, or even more strongly, is valid as far as the musical contents and the playing are concerned, which are absolutely superb. This is one of the most intimate Stanko recordings ever, and his trumpet playing is leading the music boldly and authoritatively.
In retrospect this is a tremendous piece of history of the Polish / European Jazz and of course of Stanko´s contribution to the genre, as the leading Free Jazz trumpeter of the period. For Polish Jazz connoisseurs and Stanko followers this album is an absolute must have of course.
| | Updated: 28/04/2018Posted: 28/04/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KIT DOWNES ~ GOLDEN
BASHO 31 (Barcode: 832929003127) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009
This is the debut album as a leader by British Jazz pianist / composer Kit DownesFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic Jazz piano trio setting with bassist Calum GourlayFind albums by this artist and drummer James MaddrenFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Downes and one is by Gourlay.
The album shows the wonderful potential and talent, which brought him rapidly to the center of attention first on the local Jazz scene and soon after on the International scene, following him joining the ECMFind albums on this label roster with the release of his debut album for the label in 2018, called “ObsidianFind albums with this title”.
The music, although based on strictly composed themes, tends at times towards more Free vistas and offers complex and highly original approach to composition, proving he is a formidable weaver of melodic, often highly sentimental themes, which are truly mesmerizing. There are plenty of examples of such compositions herein, and they are all as surprising as always, which makes listening to this debut album a thrill, which continues to this very day.
There is no doubt that Downes is one of the most important representatives of the third generation of the British Jazz musicians, and with his unique talent he has a lot of creative work ahead of him and his early recording period is definitely worth being discovered, if one missed it at the time,
Overall, this is an important release in the discography of Downes, despite the fact it is his debut, which by now is quite impressive and extensive. The splendid rhythm section adds quite a spark to the music, which sounds as fresh and unexpectedly quirky as it did at the time of its release.
| | Updated: 02/04/2025Posted: 02/04/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KIT DOWNES ~ LIGHT FROM OLD STARS
BASHO 42 (Barcode: 832929004223) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
This is the 3rd album as a leader by British Jazz keyboardist / composer Kit DownesFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with saxophonist James AllsoppFind albums by this artist, cellist Lucy RailtonFind albums by this artist, bassist Calum GourlayFind albums by this artist and drummer James MaddrenFind albums by this artist, the same rhythm section that played on his previous album “Quiet TigerFind albums with this title”, and which also featured Allsopp and a cellist on most of its tracks. The album presents nine tracks, all original compositions by Downes.
The album shows the rapid progression Downes made during his early period, which brought him to the center of attention first on the local Jazz scene and soon after on the International scene, following him joining the ECMFind albums on this label roster with the release of his debut album for the label in 2018, called “ObsidianFind albums with this title”. Downes plays both piano and organ and already on this early album he plays organ on three tracks.
The music, although based on strictly composed themes, tends at times towards Free Jazz and Improvised Music, which is not really Downes’ true forte, as he is a formidable weaver of melodic, often highly sentimental themes, which are truly mesmerizing. There are plenty of examples of such compositions herein, and they are all as surprising as always, which makes listening to this album a thrill.
There is no doubt that Downes is one of the most important representatives of the third generation of the British Jazz musicians, and with his unique talent he has a lot of creative work ahead of him and his early recording period is definitely worth being discovered, if one missed it at the time,
Overall, this is an important release in the discography of Downes, which by now is quite impressive and extensive. The splendid team add quite a spark to the music, which sounds as fresh and unexpectedly quirky as it did at the time of its release.
| | Updated: 21/03/2025Posted: 21/03/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: CHAPEL
BLUE NOTE 602445266494 (Barcode: 602445266494) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2022
This is the first album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and bassist Thomas MorganFind albums by this artist. It is a live recording. The album presents five tracks, three composed by Lloyd and two standards.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label label and lately for Blue NoteFind albums on this label are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age.
This album offers a highly melodic, almost romantic music, with some Bluesy tendencies, which features Lloyd playing floatingly, playfully and as always masterly, supported amicably by the guitar, played by Frisell, who records with him continuously since 2015, and the delicate bass lines by Morgan. Lloyd is undisputedly the main soloist and the lengthy tracks allow him to perform wave after wave of improvisation, which stays respectfully within the melodic and harmonic framework.
It is pretty amazing to hear Lloyd in such superb form, which defies any speculations about aging musicians. His tone is still crystal clear, and the notes appear in a perfect flow, without the slightest hesitance, with the Master being in total control at all time.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz music, serene and lyrical, which flows gently and gracefully, as if time is of no substance. Of course all three albums in this series, although completely different from each other, are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 31/07/2024Posted: 31/07/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: OCEAN
BLUE NOTE 602445266814 (Barcode: 602445266814) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2022
This is the second album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with pianist Gerald ClaytonFind albums by this artist and guitarist Anthony WilsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents four tracks, all composed by Lloyd.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label label and lately for Blue NoteFind albums on this label are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age, like Clayton on this album.
This album offers a highly melodic, almost romantic music, with some Bluesy tendencies, which features Lloyd playing floatingly, playfully and as always masterly, supported amicably mostly by the piano, with the guitar being less dominant on this album. Lloyd is undisputedly the main soloist and the lengthy tracks allow him to perform wave after wave of improvisation, which stays respectfully within the melodic and harmonic framework. Clayton, as usual, keeps close to the well paved mainstream trickery, while Wilson adds some beautiful melodic layers, but they both respectfully leave the center stage to the Guru.
It is pretty amazing to hear Lloyd in such superb form, which defies any speculations about aging musicians. His tone is still crystal clear, and the notes appear in a perfect flow, without the slightest hesitance, with the Master being in total control at all time.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz music, serene and lyrical, which flows gently and gracefully, as if time is of no substance. Of course all three albums in this series, although completely different from each other, are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 31/07/2024Posted: 19/02/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: SACRED THREAD
BLUE NOTE 602445266876 (Barcode: 602445266876) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2022
This is the third album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with Indian percussionist Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and guitarist Julian LageFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, four composed by Lloyd and three by Hussein.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label labels and lately for Blue NoteFind albums by this artist are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age, like Lage on this album.
This album offers a highly spiritual music, mostly a Jazz-World Fusion oriented pieces, strongly influenced by Indian scales and rhythms, with strong presence of the masterly performances by Hussein, who plays a very central role in this trio. Listeners familiar with Hussein’s contribution to Jazz music over the year will be hardly surprised, but the album is certainly very different from what is usually expected from Lloyd, who plays mostly flute and tárogató (Hungarian wind instrument) and Hussain sings extensive vocal parts.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz-World Fusion music, serene and contemplative, which requires patience and open-mindedness, but is certainly highly rewarding. Of course all three albums in this series are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 18/01/2024Posted: 18/01/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC VLOEIMANS ~ BITCHES AND FAIRY TALES
CHALLENGE 70061 (Barcode: 608917006124) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2010
This is the third album as a leader by Dutch trumpeter / composer Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist recorded with the dreamy trio comprising of British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and American bassist Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist, which recorded the great album "RosslynFind albums with this title" for ECMFind albums on this label a few years later. The album presents thirteen original compositions, ten composed by Vloeimans and three short interludes co-composed by him and Taylor.
The music is brilliant modern European Jazz, based on open compositions, which allow the quartet to improvise intensively, at times quite freely, and to utilize polyrhythmic structures, which the rhythm section wizardly carries on. The music is diverse and highly interesting from start to finish, and in retrospect this is one of the most interesting European Jazz recordings of the 1990s.
Vloeimans and Taylor manage to create a superb synergy, which also characterized the work of Taylor with Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, and Vloeimans´ trumpet playing bears many similarities to the idiosyncratic style of Wheeler.
Interestingly the American rhythm section displays completely non-American aesthetics, which sets it apart from most rhythm sections originating in the US, and which enables the sublime musical atmosphere created on this album, ideally suited to the two Europeans on board. Of course they are not the only example of American rhythm sections free of the decades-long clichés cemented by Bebop, but they are certainly a most welcome exception.
This music lost absolutely nothing of its power and originality over time and still sounds as interesting and fresh as it did at the time it was recorded. Taylor´s enthusiasts will wind his work here as brilliant as ever and since the album seems to be still available, it´s about time to grab a copy – satisfaction guaranteed!
| | Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: 02/10/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TUBIS TRIO ~ THE TRUTH
CHALLENGE 73445 (Barcode: 608917344523) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017
This is the second album by Polish Jazz piano trio (Tubis TrioFind albums by this artist) led by pianist / composer Maciej TubisFind albums by this artist, with bassist Pawel PuszczaloFind albums by this artist, who replaced the original bassist Marcin LamchFind albums by this artist, and drummer Przemyslaw PacanFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Tubis. The album was recorded at the excellent RecPublica Studios in Poland, and presents a superb sonic quality with a somewhat unusual timbre and was released by the prestigious Dutch ChallengeFind albums on this label Records label. This album follows the debut album "Live In LuxembourgFind albums with this title", which was recorded nine and released seven years earlier, and which achieved some international acclaim.
The music is in fact only partly directly connected with the Jazz idiom, and belongs to the modern European instrumental music variety, which is strongly based on deeply melodic themes and lengthy lyrical, somewhat introvert improvisations, which use typical European harmonic approach, creating a manner similar to many other contemporary pianists, who record for the ECMFind albums on this label, ACTFind albums on this label and related labels. In most cases the compositions are slow and melancholic, with just a few of the album´s tracks using an up tempo pace.
The music is dominated by the piano parts and the rhythm section has limited opportunity to show off, but supports the leader very solidly and amicably. The bass provides the bottom notes all the way and its pulsations are vital to this music. The drums provide a steady rhythmic support, which suits this music perfectly. The instrumental performances are of course first class from start to finish.
Overall this is an excellent example of contemporary instrumental music, which is accessible to a wide audience without making any compromises as far as the music quality is concerned. This Polish trio proves again that Poland is a reliable source of great European music, which is on par with anything being created beyond its borders, usually quite ahead of the pack.
This is definitely a welcome comeback, which hopefully will not be followed by another long term of silence.
| | Updated: 27/06/2018Posted: 11/09/2017 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA / GARY BURTON ~ THE NEW CRYSTAL SILENCE
CONCORD 230630 (Barcode: 888072306301) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
The original 1972 ECMFind albums on this label "Crystal SilenceFind albums with this title" album by Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist was undoubtedly one of the pivotal Jazz recordings in every sense: the subtlety and the boldness of a duet setting with Corea´s intricate compositions and the unusual harmonics of the piano / vibraphone combination all contributed to the overall stunning result. Now, 35 years later, gray-haired and musically wiser, Corea and Burton decided to re-live the experience of creating music together and record an up-to-date version of their encounter. This time the project is much more ambitious, as the first of the two CDs presents the duo accompanied by a Symphony Orchestra (the Australian Sydney Symphony), playing a set of Corea´s compositions arranged for the orchestra by Tim GarlandFind albums by this artist. The second CD returns to the original intimate duo setting, which performs several more of Corea´s compositions and three standards. As expected, these performances are brilliant in every respect: on the technical level both musicians are virtuosi, and on the emotional level both are superbly lyrical and expressive. Corea´s compositions deserve all the status of classics of course and these new interpretations of familiar material shed a new light on its elegance and sophistication. This is an instant classic, a must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and a landmark recording. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ VERY EARLY
DRAGON 304 (Barcode: 7391953003044) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1997
This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the third album by the great Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio format with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist. Originally released in 1987, this CD edition adds three bonus tracks not present on the LP. The album presents nine tracks, one of which is an original composition by Stenson and another by Jormin, and the rest are standards.
The music is absolutely delightful, classic Jazz piano trio setting and modern mainstream repertoire, emphasizing the talents of three Giant musicians. Stenson is one of the great European romantics, whose music can be followed on the impressive series of recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, starting with his debut album from 1971 and the latest one (at the time of writing) released in 2023. Stenson released only two albums as a leader outside of his ECM recordings, this one being one of them.
Jormin is one of my favorite Jazz bassist, a true virtuoso and a brilliantly sensitive player, with an impressive recording legacy both as a leader and member of groups led by Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist.
Carlsson, one of Sweden’s Jazz Godfathers, known to be the drummer of choice by many American Jazz musicians, who played often in Sweden on the 1960s and 1970s. He is also known to Polish Jazz followers as a member of the early groups led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist.
Overall, this is an excellent Jazz piano trio album, which shows the Swedish / European Jazz at its best, and is a delightful musical experience from start to finish. Piano trio buffs will be absolutely smitten by this music, especially if they were not previously exposed to the early years of Stenson. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/08/2023Posted: 03/08/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY ~ BALLADS
ECM 1010 (Barcode: 602567434788) ~ CANADA ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the iconic piano trio album by Canadian pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist, recorded in March and July of 1967, with American drummer Barry AltschulFind albums by this artist and bassists Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist or Mark LevinsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents just three tracks, all composed by American vocalist / composer Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist, who was married first to Gary Peacock and later to Paul Bley, and who wrote much of his repertoire since 1964. Released originally in 1971, this was Bley’s second album for the then new ECMFind albums on this label Records label, and is often quoted as being one of the defining vectors of the “ECM sound”, which re-defined recorded Jazz in many aspects.
The music, created at the very peak of the American Free Jazz movement (the second session took place just a few days following John ColtraneFind albums by this artist’s death), following Bley’s involvement with the American Avant-Garde scene since its inception in the late 1950s, reflects perfectly his and his musicians state of mind. The title was of course mostly ironic / sarcastic, as the music was indeed based on a loosely concept of a ballad, the classic structure of which was completely fragmented, broken down, stretched and improvised on. The beautiful melody lines, which Annette Peacock masterly weaved, and which last for under a minute each, are expanded into twelve or seventeen minutes long improvisations. No wonder many listeners and music critics alike had a hard time to accept these innovative concepts as valid or worth listening to, which of course was completely ignored by the musicians and the ECM team at the time. This is a symbol of why the first 100 albums released on ECM between 1970 and 1977 changed the face of recorded music in every possible perception.
And yes, this is extremely difficult music to be enjoyed – it takes years of training one’s ears and of course one’s mind in order to relax the intellectual muscles trained by years of Swing and Bebop, in order to grasp what is really going on, why every note here is perfectly in its place and why this music will never be played in elevators. And no, not everybody has to love and enjoy this music. In fact, it would be a catastrophe if everybody did love it, as it would probably mean that the world has gone even crazier than it seems to be.
Overall, this is an absolute classic Free Jazz / Improvised Music recording, which lost nothing of its power over time, and is still intellectually challenging and satisfying almost sixty years after it was recorded. It is a great reminder of the role of ECM Records as a pioneer of European Culture, which managed to transfer everything that was worthy over to the right side of the pond.
| | Updated: 11/08/2024Posted: 09/08/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ FACING YOU
ECM 1017 (Barcode: 602517758452) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
This monumental and revolutionary album was the first release by US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on the (then) very young German ECMFind albums on this label label. In retrospect, from a 40 years perspective, it´s obvious that it was a pivotal point as much for Jarrett as for ECM, with both names achieving legendary status in years that followed this recording. It was also the first solo piano recording by Jarrett, opening a completely new musical universe for him and for music connoisseurs, a path he was about to follow almost in parallel to his more conventional Jazz recordings and later Classical music recordings. Jarrett´s solo piano performances are mostly improvised and present a mind-flow of on-the-spot spontaneous music creation, which requires total concentration and a trance-like state of mind by the artists. The approach on this, first of a kind recording, is however transitional, as Jarrett plays here mostly pre-composed material, which is expanded by his improvisations, but is altogether less spontaneous then his later recordings of this type. Therefore this is a perfect introduction to his solo piano work, serving as a process-in-progress showcase. Of course the music and the performance lost absolutely nothing of its beauty and power over time and it´s still a superb piece of music. I can´t imagine anybody not having this in their music collection.
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CIRCLE ~ PARIS-CONCERT
ECM 1018/19 (Barcode: 042284316323) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1991
Circle was a short-lived quartet formed by US pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist at the high peak of his activity in the field of Free Jazz and improvised music with three other outstanding and legendary musicians also active in the same field: saxophonist Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Barry AltschulFind albums by this artist. This live recording is the only document of the quartet´s performances and it is a remarkable piece of music in every respect. The music played on this album is a mixture of standards and original compositions by all the four musicians involved and presents a unique glimpse at the Free Jazz scene at the peek of its development. The performances are absolutely stunning from start to finish and the player´s virtuosity obvious at all times. Telepathic conversations, solos, duos, trios and the entire quartet playing chase each other constantly, creating an atmosphere of intellectual tension and anticipation. This is absolutely brilliant stuff, which has been one of my favorite albums for forty years now. A must to all Free Jazz listeners!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT / JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ RUTA AND DAITYA
ECM 1021 (Barcode: 731451377624) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1993
This is an early collaboration between US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, which will later on evolve into world´s most famous Jazz trio with the addition of bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist. The music herein was privately recorded by these two musicians while they were still members of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensemble. Following the release of Jarrett´s "Facing YouFind albums with this title" album on ECMFind albums on this label, he offered ECM these recordings and the label released them willingly. The music is mostly co-composed by Jarrett and DeJohnette, with just a few compositions credited to Jarrett alone. The atmosphere is intimate and quite free, evidently mostly improvised, as appropriate for the period. Jarrett plays both acoustic and electric piano and this is one of the latest recording where he was using electric piano, soon to be totally dedicated to the acoustic piano. DeJohnette plays wonderfully and the duo setting emphasizes his unusual approach to rhythm and his truly amazing musicality and ability to listen to his partners. This is a great chapter, although relatively unknown, in the history of these great musicians. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BENNIE MAUPIN ~ THE JEWEL IN THE LOTUS
ECM 1043 (Barcode: 602517232501) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
This great and unfortunately little known album by US reedman Bennie MaupinFind albums by this artist is a superb example of the artistic freedom extended to musicians by the legendary ECMFind albums by this artist label. Maupin is of course known from his input to the revolutionary music recorded by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and later by the Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist sextet and in fact this album was recorded shortly after the recording of the three so called "MwandishiFind albums with this title" albums and later the immensely successful "Head HuntersFind albums with this title". The core members of Hancock´s sextet are here: Hancock himself on piano and electric piano, Buster WilliamsFind albums by this artist and bass, Billy HartFind albums by this artist on drums, augmented by trumpeter Charles SullivanFind albums by this artist and percussionists Frederic WaitsFind albums by this artist and Bill SummersFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Maupin, is deeply meditative and low key, but full of beauty and reflection. There is ample space for improvisation and interplay, all of which is done with great care and restraint, but the overall result aesthetically perfect. Perhaps not an "easy" album to listen to, especially for the first time, but music without challenge is not really worth pursuing, is it?
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN ABERCROMBIE ~ TIMELESS
ECM 1047 (Barcode: 042282911421) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2000
This is the debut album for the ECMFind albums on this label label by US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and his second release as a leader. With keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, this is a perfect early Fusion ensemble and the album was recorded at the epicenter (chronologically) of the big Fusion explosion, but it is much more focused and artistic than most of the stuff recorded at the time. In fact although the spirit of Fusion floats in the air, the album wanders all over the place, often touching even Free Jazz. These musicians are of course Masters of the trade and everything they do is just perfect, which holds true now, three and a half decades later. In retrospect this is one of the true classic Fusion recordings and not much done in the years that followed surpassed it, or even got to the same level. A classic indeed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Delightful; as Adam says, many different styles, but Hammer at all times keeps his restraint, matching Abercrombie´s style and not playing as if he was duelling with Jeff Beck! Lovely subtle stuff from Jack DeJohnette as well.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ BELONGING
ECM 1050 (Barcode: 042282911520) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2000
During the 1970s, the legendary US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was leading a "double life", recording in parallel as a leader of two quartets: The recordings of the US quartet were released on ImpulseFind albums on this label and those of the Scandinavian quartet on ECMFind albums on this label, a relatively new (at the time) small European (German) label, which in time was destined to become the world´s leading record label associated with the most important musicians active in the late 20th Century. This album was the first recording of the Scandinavian quartet, which consisted of Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Jarrett explored completely two different musical idioms with his two quartets: The US quartet, firmly based in the US Jazz tradition, boldly expanded the borders of the genre, whereas the Scandinavian quartet plunged head-on into the European Jazz universe, which was revolutionizing the Jazz language by moving away from the restriction set by American Jazz and amalgamating previously untouched musical areas, which included, among others, the European Classical tradition and Folklore. Jarrett was amongst the first US Jazz musicians to discover the new universe and crossed over the Atlantic pond to take part in the "new thing" without hesitation. For this album Jarrett composed a set of brilliant composition, completely different from his work in the US, and these composition performed by the Scandinavian quartet emerged as one of the greatest moments of his career. The album is simply stunning, with beautifully melodic, contemplative and atmospheric music, which charms the listener immediately, basically transforming him into a new universe. The "Scandinavian sound" of this album was about to become a point of reference for future recordings and an integral part of the "ECM sound", forever associated with the label´s output. A work of pure genius, this is an essential and everlasting piece of heavenly music!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | RALPH TOWNER / GARY BURTON ~ MATCHBOOK
ECM 1056 (Barcode: 602567434825) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the 1st duo album by American Jazz legends guitarist / composer Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist and vibraphonist / composer Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, six composed by Towner, one by Burton and two are standards. The album was recorded at the legendary Studio Bauer in Ludwigsburg, Germany, by the prominent recording engineer Martin WielandFind albums by this artist, who was in charge of recording a large part of the early albums by the ECMFind albums on this label label.
The music reflects perfectly the spirit of the early ECM recordings, on which the music, even when recorded by American musicians, had a distinct European aesthetics and sound. Based mostly on Towner’s beautiful, but quite complex themes, the music allows both musicians to improvise extensively, without losing touch with the underlying melodic themes. Both Towner, with his ensemble OregonFind albums by this artist, and Burton with his various projects, left mainstream American Jazz at the early stages of their careers, exploring many different areas, like World Music, Fusion, Classical influences and other musical avenues, which made them distinct from most American Jazz musicians, and which made ECM to release their music.
The telepathic communication between these two musicians is phenomenal and this album immediately falls into the “Art of the Duo” category. Although seemingly arriving from distant musical backgrounds, their openness to each other ideas is stunning and allows them to create dense and complex dialogues, which sound coherent and accessible despite their complexity.
Overall, this is a brilliant example of the new wave of music introduced by the ECM label at the first decade of its existence, which revolutionized Jazz (and beyond) in every possible aspect, and moved the epicenter of Jazz development across the pond. These two virtuosi are at their prime and this music is absolutely timeless, making this album a classic deserving an honorable place in every serious music collection.
| | Updated: 23/08/2024Posted: 23/08/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | RALPH TOWNER ~ SOLSTICE
ECM 1060 (Barcode: 602517758575) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2008
This is a reissue of the 3rd solo album by American guitarist / pianist / composer Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with European musicians: Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, German bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven composed by Towner and one by Weber. The music was recorded at the legendary Arne BendiksenFind albums by this artist Studio in Oslo, often called the birthplace of ECMFind albums on this label, with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist presiding behind the console. Kongshaug was the manager and chief sound engineer of the studio between 1967 and 1974, and he is the creator of the iconic “ECM sound” of the early ECM releases.
The music is absolutely magnificent, a sophisticated mixture of influences from different World Music traditions, Scandinavian melancholy and Jazz improvisation, exquisitely performed by these Master musicians. In parallel to his solo recordings, Towner was of course a member of the legendary OregonFind albums by this artist quartet, which created music somewhat similar to what can be heard here, but the European / Nordic influences are much stronger on this album, taking the music into another “orbit”.
Recorded in December of 1974 (50 years ago!), this music is light-years ahead of its time, and reflects the enormous influence that the early ECM albums had both on European and much later also on American Jazz. The incredible freedom the musicians were allowed to pursue, unrestricted by any commercial considerations, created an atmosphere of unlimited creativity, experimentation and milestone development of contemporary music, which lasted for a couple of decades, making a lasting impact, and which ripples can be felt even today.
Towner’s extensive recorded legacy, which spans well over fifty albums as leader and sideman, is a treasure trove of brilliant music and his integrity and immense talent never failed him over the years. I feel privileged for having the opportunity to meet him in person and even having him as a guest in my home.
Overall, this is an absolutely everlasting gem of an album, which stands as a beacon of the early ECM recordings, full of brilliant and touching music, counting every second of its duration. It should be a part of every decent album collection, reaching far beyond any genre classification – it is simply Godly music.
| | Updated: 17/01/2025Posted: 17/01/2025 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN ABERCROMBIE ~ GATEWAY
ECM 1061 (Barcode: 602517762121) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
US guitarist / composer John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist emerged as one of the most formidable forces in Fusion in the late 1960s / early 1970s. By the time he signed with the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label his musical horizons expanded tremendously and he started experimenting with music outside the relatively limited scope of Fusion. This trio recording with British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and US drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is a great example of this metamorphosis. Abercrombie still uses Fusion phrases and voicing, but the format is much more free and exploratory. The music was composed mostly by Holland (four of the six tracks on this album), who would become one of the greatest modern Jazz composers in addition to his virtuoso bass playing. DeJohnette composed one of the tracks and co-composed the remaining one with Abercrombie. The performances are of course stellar and the album remains an important milestone of adventurous Fusion, similar to John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist´s "ExtrapolationFind albums with this title". Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ THE PILGRIM AND THE STARS
ECM 1063 (Barcode: 602517758544) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
This was the first album on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist, one of the most important representatives of modern European Jazz. A trumpet virtuoso and an exceptionally gifted composer, Rava established himself on the international scene by the late 1960s / early 1970s, playing mostly with the elite of Avant-Garde players of that period, both in Europe and in America. Later on Rava returned to more melodic approach via a stint with Fusion, a path similar to many of his young European contemporaries. This brilliant album presents him in a quartet setting with US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The music moves freely between freely improvised passages and melodic interludes, with the overall sound close to Fusion due to Abercrombie´s electric guitar. Full of fire and passion, this is a prime example of the musical climate at the time and in retrospective the music lost absolutely nothing of its strength and beauty. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE KÖLN CONCERT
ECM 1064/65 (Barcode: 042281006722) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 1983
This is one of the most widely known, best selling and also most widely discussed Jazz albums ever released, so I´ll be brief here. I had the immense pleasure to be present at the Köln (Cologne) Opera House when this album was recorded; therefore I´m probably quite biased. US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, alone at the piano, creates an entire musical universe, directly from his mind via his fingers and the keyboard. The music is a spur of the moment, spontaneous flow of notes, which make perfect sense even in the absence of clearly defined melody or conventional harmony. It is ecstatic, emotional, natural, almost Zen like, self-centered and above all magnificent and almost painfully beautiful. Although this album was followed by many other solo piano recordings by Jarrett, he rarely arrived again at the same level of inspiration and totality as he did here. The music lasts for just over 66 minutes and the album was originally released as a double LP. It´s not surprising that the album was widely listened to by people, who don´t usually listen to Jazz or even plainly dislike Jazz, as it truly transcends genres and stylistic definitions. This is music to be experienced, not only to be listened to. I have often seen people calling this "the most overrated album in music history" – all I can tell these people is to stick it, which I hope will be appropriately painful. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ GNU HIGH
ECM 1069 (Barcode: 602517775985) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
This is the first recording on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by the outstanding British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. After recording several albums as a leader and countless others as a sideman and being an integral part of the British modern Jazz revolution in the UK in the 1960s / 1970s, Wheeler slowly expanded his international career, starting with this extraordinary recording. Accompanied by a brilliant trio consisting of pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist (his last ever recording as a sideman), bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, the quartet plays just three original compositions by Wheeler, one of which is an extended suite over 21 minutes long. The performances are of course stellar and the album is a timeless classic and an essential piece of Jazz history. From the 35 years perspective this music gets better with time, remaining not only beautiful, but also eternally valuable. Essential!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ BALLADYNA
ECM 1071 (Barcode: 602517775978) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
This is a debut recording on the ECMFind albums on this label label by legendary Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory, and the first album by any Polish artist on that label. Stanko´s association with ECM continues now into its fourth decade. The music, recorded by an international quartet, which features also the great Polish saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, British bass Giant Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and Finnish Master-drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, is one of the greatest recording of modern European Jazz in the 1970s. Stanko, who was a member of the first Polish modern Jazz group, led by his Mentor pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, continued the tradition of cooperating with players from other European countries, whenever possible at those troubled times. His cooperation with Szukalski and Vesala continued for several years and they recorded several albums together, including the phenomenal "TwetFind albums with this title", recorded a year before this album, with bassist Peter WarrenFind albums by this artist in place of Holland. The music is mostly oriented towards Free Jazz, but Stanko´s intrinsic sense of melody and immense lyricism overpowers the free form and becomes the leading force, pushing the music effortlessly and magically into a mystic plane, full of sounds and intermitting silences, which create a gentle, deeply emotional vistas. The interplay between all the quartet members is simply incredible and the resulting music sounds as if created by one collective body and mind. This is undoubtedly on the finest moments of Jazz ever recorded and an essential piece of music, timeless and everlasting!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I definitely agree with Adam`s "essential" label on this one. But look out for Stanko`s "From the Green Hill" with John Surman and others - even better IMHO
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY BURTON ~ DREAMS SO REAL – MUSIC OF CARLA BLEY
ECM 1072 (Barcode: 602517758308) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2008
US vibraphonist / composer Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist is one of the pillars of American modern Jazz and his extraordinary legacy of recorded music includes a monumental body of work, spanning decades, styles and an incredible variety of sounds. On this very unique album, Burton and his quintet - which consists of two guitarists: British Mick GoodrickFind albums by this artist (one of the greatest and sadly little known guitar virtuosi) and US Pat MethenyFind albums by this artist, bassist Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist and drummer Bob MosesFind albums by this artist - play tribute to the great US composer Carla BleyFind albums by this artist. Bley´s compositions have been always a superb example of ingenuity and intelligence as much as deep lyricism and melodic perception. Stylistically in a universe of her own, Bley deserves a very special place on the pedestal of great 20th Century composers and this loving tribute is a proper example of the recognition of her talents. The presence of two electric guitarists on this album gives it a certain slightly Fusion touch, but definitely of the gentle sort, which suits the music perfectly. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | EBERHARD WEBER ~ THE FOLLOWING MORNING
ECM 1084 (Barcode: 602567431015) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2019
This is the 3rd album as a leader by German bassist / composer Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist, recorded with keyboardist Rainer BruninghausFind albums by this artist and members of the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra. The album presents four tracks, all composed by Weber. The music was recorded at the Talent Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist.
Weber is one of the most distinctive European Jazz voices and his inimitable bass sound and phrasing remains a classic expression of European lyricism and aesthetics, especially in the Chamber Jazz idiom, which combines Jazz and Classical music vocabulary and sonic aura.
The music develops slowly and builds up a feeling of tension and expectation, with Weber’s bass soloing on top, creating a unique atmosphere, often similar to cinematic music, somewhere between Minimalism and Romanticism. But it always remains uniquely Weber’s, recognizable easily from his idiosyncratic touch of the bass and the use of delay and reverb when amplifying the instrument.
Weber’s recording with his brilliant ColoursFind albums by this artist ensemble is the more Jazz oriented facet of his work, whereas his intimate albums, mostly in solo or duo format, are his Chamber Jazz creations. Of course, he is always brilliantly himself.
Overall, this is a wonderful piece of music and a true European Chamber Jazz gem, worth being listened to and returning to from time to time. Weber’s collective recorded legacy, both as a leader and sideman, is true chest of wonders, as this album clearly exemplifies.
| | Updated: 21/02/2024Posted: 21/02/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ EYES OF THE HEART
ECM 1150 (Barcode: 042282547620) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 1988
This live recording by the US quartet led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist was originally released as a 3-sided 2LP set (one of a very few such releases, with side 4 left blank), due to the limited playtime of the vinyl format - now it fits perfectly on one CD. The music includes basically one tune (the album´s title), which is split into two parts (again as a result of LP´s sides) and an encore played by the quartet during the concert, which resided on the third vinyl side. While composed by Jarrett, the music is largely improvised, especially when extended into a half an hour long performance. The emotional depth is staggering and the virtuosity of the players, although universally known as a fact, is always astounding. A rare moment of musical ingenuity and aesthetic beauty captured for eternity… a must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HADEN / GARBAREK / GISMONTI ~ MAGICO
ECM 1151 (Barcode: 042282347428) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1979 Released: 1985
This wonderful and by now Classic album by US bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and Brazilian guitarist / pianist Egberto GismontiFind albums by this artist is one of the great recordings of Jazz-World Fusion, proving that music has absolutely no borders and people from completely different cultural / artistic backgrounds are capable of finding common ground and compliment each other. These three brilliant musicians play together, creating a perfect unison, which is evident from the onset. The five pieces they perform include two composed by Gismonti and one each by Haden and Garbarek, with the fifth being another Brazilian tune. The interaction and exchange of musical ideas is absolutely magical, as the album´s title promises. As already said, this is an absolute classic and a must in any serious music collection!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ AROUND 6
ECM 1156 (Barcode: 731452912428) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 Released: 1990
This is the third album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the great British (born in Canada) trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, one of the Godfathers of modern British and European Jazz. Recorded in a sextet setting, the album combines the forces of several superb European musicians: British saxophonist Evan ParkerFind albums by this artist, Swedish trombonist Eje ThelinFind albums by this artist, US (resident in Europe) vibraphonist Tom van der GeldFind albums by this artist, French bassist Jean-Francois Jenny-ClarkFind albums by this artist and Finnish drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. The sextet performs six original compositions by Wheeler, two of which are expanded pieces over ten minutes long and one is a solo trumpet piece.
In many respects this album is quite different from all other recordings Wheeler made for ECM, mostly due to the presence of Parker, who belongs to the radical Free Jazz circle, which almost never (except for the very early days) manages to get any exposure on the label. Wheeler, however, seems to have absolutely no problem with Parker being a part of the lineup and switches elegantly between the melodic / lyrical compositions or passages within a composition, into the wild free realms Parker resides in. There are very few recordings, which manage to create such a wonderful cross-genre symbiosis like this one, and therefore this album is in retrospect one of the most interesting ECM recordings.
All the players here have been major figures on the European Jazz scene since many years and participated in countless recording sessions from the mid 1960s all throughout the 1970s and Wheeler´s capability to bring them together as part of this project is truly admirable. The level of performance is absolutely dazzling and combined with the level of freedom the musicians are granted by the leader they are able to express themselves to the max, which is clearly evident to the listener.
This music lost absolutely nothing of its power and beauty over time, on the contrary listening to this album only makes one wonder why such ambitious and groundbreaking music is rarely being recorded today. This is an absolute gem and every record collection will be greatly enriched by having this album as one of its items. Grab it if you can find it!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEVE SWALLOW ~ HOME
ECM 1160 (Barcode: 602567434870) ~ USA ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the debut album as a leader by American bassist / composer / bandleader Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist and his second release on the ECMFind albums on this label label, following the duo album with Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist entitled “Hotel HelloFind albums with this title”, released five years earlier. The album was recorded in a sextet setting with vocalist Sheila JordanFind albums by this artist, pianist Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, synthesizer player Lyle MaysFind albums by this artist and drummer Bob MosesFind albums by this artist, and it presents ten tracks, all composed by Swallow, with lyrics by the American poet Robert CreeleyFind albums by this artist.
The music is strongly melodic and often outright romantic, perfectly suiting the “Jazz & Poetry” idiom and the idiosyncratic poetry by Creeley, who was a magician of the poetic expression and could tell a story in just a very few words. Jordan, my favorite American Jazz vocalist, is absolutely perfect for the role of the storyteller, and albeit the fact that the lyrics are often minimalist, she sets the mood for the entire album.
The music is quite mainstream oriented, with most of the melodic content carried by Kuhn, who is brilliant as always. Surprisingly, Liebman plays some of the most well-behaved saxophone solos of his career on this album, without pushing the boundaries. Mays stays mostly in the background, as does Moses, but Swallow’s round bass lines are firmly present.
Overall, this is a very well-played and sung “Jazz & Poetry” album, with excellent contributions by all the participants, but does not break any new ground or demands a particular intellectual effort to enjoy the music for what it is.
| | Updated: 11/10/2024Posted: 11/10/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF SIMON SIMON
ECM 1193 (Barcode: 042282916020) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1990
This amazing album is the 2nd release by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist on the ECMFind albums on this label label. Accompanied only by drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, Surman performs a nine-part suite composed by him or co-composed with DeJohnette (one track is traditional). Surman uses multi-layered studio technique to create the effect of several instruments juxtaposed, although they are all played by him, which will become his trademark in years to come. Both the music and the performances are of course stellar and Surman´s pioneering and visionary approach to Jazz and other music forms is already strongly present here. This is also one of the most important recordings on ECM, inaugurating the label´s domination on the Jazz / contemporary music scene for the next decade – the 1980s. In retrospect this album is a timeless masterpiece, which deserves a place in every serious music collection. A classic!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY PEACOCK ~ VOICE FROM THE PAST - PARADIGM
ECM 1210 (Barcode: 731451776823) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1990
This great album by US bassist / composer Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist is a milestone achievement in his extensive career. Recorded with an all star quartet with Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and his life-long partner drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, the album presents six extended pieces, all composed by Peacock, beautifully executed by the participants. In retrospect this is one of the pivotal albums, which summarize the 1970s, which was perhaps the most creative period for Free Jazz, expanding upon the seeds planted a decade earlier by the pioneers of the genre. Most Jazz musicians in the 1980s were to return to the "roots", with modern mainstream experiencing a remarkable renaissance. But this album is still very much rooted in the Free Jazz tradition, with creative group improvisation and telepathic interplay are the main ingredients. Stanko´s input is simply breathtaking, which confirms the fact that he was at that time at one of his creative peaks. But all the musicians play incredibly well and the session displays creative fire of rare magnitude. In retrospect this is definitely on of the strongest albums of that period, sadly rarely mentioned as such. Brilliant stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Wonderful album indeed - Peacock is somewhat reminiscent of Barre Phillips on this (eg, Mountainscapes, w/John Surman). For me it is completely timeless, and does not sound like a throw-back to the 70s or any other specific time.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA ~ TRIO MUSIC
ECM 1232/33 (Barcode: 601215945423) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 1990
The members of this great Jazz trio, comprising of pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, bassist Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist and drummer Roy HaynesFind albums by this artist, met briefly in the late 1960s, when they recorded Corea´s 2nd album as a leader called "Now He Sings, Now He SobsFind albums with this title", which was one of the great recordings of that period. On this album they continue their musical journey together, now certainly more mature and with a lot of experience behind them. This album, originally released as a double LP, presents the trio in two quite different settings. The music, which was originally present on LP 1, is a set of trio and duo improvisation, whereas the music on LP 2 is a series of compositions by the great Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, uniquely transformed by the trio. With musicians of this caliber one should expect nothing less that perfection, and this is exactly what this album is all about: perfection. The trio simply floats in perfect harmony, from one tune to the next, as if this incredible music was the easiest thing to do, which of course it surely isn´t. Just grab it and immerse yourself in these sounds, blissfully forgetting everything else. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STANDARDS VOL.1
ECM 1255 (Barcode: 042281196621) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1985
Brilliant album by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, presenting Jarrett´s treatment of standards, which is of course completely unique and unparalleled by any other interpretation available on record. His strong personality and vision transforms these melodies into a new plane, which is a mixture of the Jazz tradition and Jarrett´s only one of its kind universe. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA / GARY BURTON ~ LYRIC SUITE FOR SEXTET
ECM 1260 (Barcode: 042281527425) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1982 Released: 1993
Following a series of duet recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist and vibraphonist / composer Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist cooperated once again on this project, which adds a string quartet to their wonderful duo, creating a sextet, albeit not a "classic" Jazz sextet one might expect. The music is a suite especially composed by Corea, which combines Jazz and contemporary Classical music, a trend Corea followed many times later on in his career. Both the music and the performances are brilliant, as usual with these two Master musicians, and every Corea / Burton follower will not miss this for the world. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA ~ CHILDREN`S SONGS
ECM 1267 (Barcode: 602517762176) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2008
US pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist has been in the epicenter of modern Jazz for the last five decades, always on top and up-to-date, a living legend. Corea´s recorded legacy accumulated over time amounts to a staggering body of work, presenting him as a prolific and diverse Artist, who can be inventive and intelligent regardless of the musical circumstance he finds himself in, be it Free Jazz, Fusion, contemporary Classical or just straight ahead (well never really "straight ahead") Jazz. This album presents him "flirting" with contemporary Classical material – twenty miniatures for solo piano and one trio (with violin and cello) piece, which he composed over a period of years. These miniature are all exquisite little pieces, delicate as china dolls, and seemingly simple, hence the name. The entire album is a true delight from start to finish and proves that Corea is in par with other 20th Century composers; at least as far as the miniature form is concerned (see Béla BartókFind albums by this artist, Zoltán KodályFind albums by this artist and others). Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ CHANGES
ECM 1276 (Barcode: 781182127623) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 1984
Brilliant album by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, recorded at the same session which resulted in the two "Standards" albums. This album, which includes Jarrett´s original compositions, is closer to the "usual" music performed by the trio, but the atmosphere prevailing at these sessions is firmly present within, which integrates this music with the two standards albums into a coherent musical entity. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ WITHHOLDING PATTERN
ECM 1295 (Barcode: 042282540720) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 1985
This is the 3rd album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, which similarly to his debut for the label, recorded five years earlier, is another solo project. Surman plays baritone and soprano saxophones, bass clarinet, recorder, piano and synthesizers, creating multi-layered conversations with himself, which are uniquely beautiful and emotionally breathtaking. Of course Surman would return to this pattern again in the future, with each of these solo albums being a complete blast. This is definitely a masterpiece of modern music and a vivid example of human ingenuity and endless talent.
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
The first John Surman (and probably the first ECM record) that I ever heard: I picked up the LP from a library sale in a country town in England. It is no exaggeration to say that my life was transformed and I now have nearly every Surman recording released. Withholding Pattern is still almost my favourite; Biography of the Rev Absolom Dawe (not yet on Jazzis) wins by a short head. I respectfully agree with Adam´s description, and the experience was enhanced by seeing and hearing the man construct one of his multi-layered conversations solo live ons stage; they are not made by sequential recording but by setting up fading loops etc in real time.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA ~ SEPTET
ECM 1297 (Barcode: 042282725820) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1984 Released: 1985
This remarkable album by pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist marks his first full-scale entry into contemporary Classical music. It includes his five-part suite for septet (piano, string quartet, flute and French horn) and another shorter piece, originally composed for guitarist Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist. The septet consists of Classical musicians and includes flautist Steve KujalaFind albums by this artist, who also recorded a duo album with Corea ("VoyageFind albums with this title"). The music, although intended as contemporary Classical, hints clearly to the composer´s Jazz background, both rhythmically and melodically. Beautifully performed, with some exceptional flute solos, this is a piece of music that is worthy of habitual revisits, satisfaction guaranteed. A must to Jazz-Classical Fusion fans and Corea connoisseurs!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA ~ TRIO MUSIC LIVE IN EUROPE
ECM 1310 (Barcode: 602517758315) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2008
US pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist has been in the epicenter of modern Jazz for the last five decades, always on top and up-to-date, a living legend. Corea´s recorded legacy accumulated over time amounts to a staggering body of work, presenting him as a prolific and diverse Artist, who can be inventive and intelligent regardless of the musical circumstance he finds himself in, be it Free Jazz, Fusion, contemporary Classical or just straight ahead (well never really "straight ahead") Jazz. This live recording spotlights Corea´s talents as an interpreter of Jazz standards, as well as performing his own compositions and compositions by his fellow musicians. The trio (called "Trio Music") includes two other legendary musicians: bassist Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist and drummer Roy HaynesFind albums by this artist, and is one of Chic´s "regular" groups that he records and tours with. The performance is absolutely stunning, from start to finish and Corea´s virtuosity, great sense of humor and intelligence are simply breathtaking. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STANDARDS LIVE
ECM 1317 (Barcode: 602517758476) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 Released: 2008
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly the most famous Jazz ensemble on the scene since at least two decades. All these musicians are absolute Masters of the trade, but what makes this trio tick is the telepathic conversation, that connects them into a perfect unison. A long and impressive array of recordings by this trio, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, is one of the pillar stones of modern Jazz, regardless of the fact if they play standards or original compositions by Jarrett. Each and every one of these recordings has something to offer and even if one already owns some of them, one more is always welcome. This album is a live recording in France and the trio plays six classic standards, and no other musicians is able to make standards sound like Jarrett does. The music is just perfect, as is the recording quality, for which the label is famous. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ SOMEWHERE CALLED HOME
ECM 1337 (Barcode: 602517799301) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2008
The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, her husband pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and clarinetist / saxophonist Tony CoeFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources; there are some standards and others are lesser-known compositions. Norma wrote the lyrics to the pieces, which are originally instrumentals, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | EDWARD VESALA ~ LUMI
ECM 1339 (Barcode: 602567431053) ~ FINLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the 3rd album as a leader on the ECMFind albums on this label label by Finnish Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, recorded by an ensemble comprising of eleven top Finnish musicians, including saxophonists Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist and Tapani RinneFind albums by this artist, guitarist Raoul BjorkenheimFind albums by this artist and his wife harpist / keyboardist Iro HaarlaFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, eight of which were composed by Vesala and one was co-composed by him and Polish Jazz trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, with whom he cooperated for many years.
The music, although composed, is full of Avant-Garde elements, Free improvisation, all framed by remarkable close large ensemble work, kept tightly in check by Vesala’s ingenious drumming. Many different musical elements are amalgamated on this album, including Rock, Big Band licks and the Nordic melancholy, with the music floating between quiet meditative pieces and hard rocking crescendos.
Vesala was of course one of the Godfathers of Finnish Jazz and his interest in Improvised Music marked the earliest exploration of that genre on the local scene already in the 1960s. He was always very open to cooperation with other European Jazz musicians and recorded many albums with European ensembles, especially with the a.m. Stanko and other Polish, German and British musicians, and as such was an early icon of European Jazz.
Overall, this is a remarkable piece of Finnish / European Jazz, full of beautiful melodic lines and fascinating exploration of the Free idiom, which are perfectly balanced on this wonderful album. Wholeheartedly recommended for those young Jazz enthusiasts, who discovered Jazz after his tragically premature departure in 1999.
| | Updated: 15/06/2024Posted: 15/06/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ STILL LIVE
ECM 1360/61 (Barcode: 042283500822) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1988
This is the second live "standards" recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s. The trio will record a long series of live "standards" albums in the scope of the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ PRIVATE CITY
ECM 1366 (Barcode: 602517758568) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2008
British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the most important Jazz musicians ever. His immense body of work, accumulated over the years, presents a true Renaissance Man; brilliantly inventive, immensely skilled and with an unlimited imagination. After taking part in the British modern Jazz revolution in the 1960s / 1070s, Surman slowly developed an international career and his recording on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label are all absolute masterpieces. This brilliant album is one of a series of solo recordings by Surman, on which he explores the technique of musical conversations with himself, playing multiple instruments (soprano and baritone saxophones, recorders, bass clarinet and synthesizers) and using multi-track studio wizardry. The music is deeply contemplative and amazingly beautiful, from start to finish, drawing the listened into its depths and engulfing him completely. Listening to this music is not only an aesthetic experience, but also a deeply emotional one. Essential!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Wonderful album - I saw him play in London when this was released - it was extraordinary to see how he composed multi-layered interactive music with what would now be regarded as primitive electronics. A lovely man who puts his huge heart and soul into making extraordinary music
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ PERSONAL MOUNTAINS
ECM 1382 (Barcode: 042283736122) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 Released: 1989
This monumental album is the only live recording by the legendary Scandinavian Quartet led by US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, with Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Starting with the 1974 album "BelongingFind albums with this title" this quartet recorded a series of brilliant albums released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which to a large extent defined the "Scandinavian sound" as well as the "ECM sound", but also revolutionized the entire Jazz idiom. Unrestricted by the American Jazz limitations, Jarrett was able to discover new musical universes, which he did with passion and determination, always excelling himself both as a player and a composer. This album was recorded at the absolute artistic peak of the quartet, which after playing and recording together for half a decade, developed truly telepathic unity and perfect harmony. Although released only a decade after it was recorded, this album is a brilliant "time capsule", which remains a source of admiration and inspiration. Absolutely brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ CHANGELESS
ECM 1392 (Barcode: 042283961821) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1987 Released: 1989
This is a live recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, captured during their 1987 US tour, which present a set of original compositions by Jarrett. In the liner notes of this album Jarrett explains that these are really improvised pieces, which crystallized during the trio´s rehearsals and live concerts, rather than conventional compositions. Regardless of their origin, they are as emotional and fascinating as everything else these musicians created. They play music in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MISHA ALPERIN / ARKADY SHILKLOPER ~ WAVE OF SORROW
ECM 1396 (Barcode: 042283962125) ~ RUSSIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 1990
The Soviet Union produced some truly amazing Jazz musicians, including Avant-Garde pioneers and prophetic innovators, who were almost completely unknown outside of the empire´s borders. The fate of the Soviet Jazz is a fascinating chapter in the music´s history. Following the collapse of the Soviet regime, many of the musicians, who were active on the local scene, left the country, including pianist / composer Misha AlperinFind albums by this artist, who now lives in Norway. His recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, starting with this album (the first album by Soviet musicians to be released on ECM) brought his wonderful music to the attention of a much wider audience, which of course is well deserved. He is accompanied by his life-long friend and musical partner Arkady ShilkloperFind albums by this artist, who plays French horn and flugelhorn. Alperin´s music is contemplative and deeply moving, complex but also melodic, reminiscent of some contemporary Classical music but with a distinct Jazz connection. It is devilishly difficult to perform and both musicians present here are obviously virtuosi. I can´t imagine any serious music connoisseur not falling in love with this music immediately and if you´re not familiar with it, now is the time!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ FISH OUT OF WATER
ECM 1398 (Barcode: 042284108829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 1990
This is the first album on the iconic German ECMFind albums on this label label by American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with the dreamy Scandinavian rhythm section comprising of pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. This, the CD version of the album, includes one bonus track not included on the LP version, totaling in seven original compositions, all by Lloyd.
The music offers a set of melodic, bluesy and wistful compositions, which spiritually are much way closer to the European / Nordic Jazz usually performed by the Scandinavian musicians taking part in this recording than what one might expect form an American Jazz musician, so deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition. But Lloyd was never a typical American Jazz musician and his exposure to European Jazz music and musicians during his career as well as his interest in World Music already proved that he can be quite unexpected and not following any particular trends.
The album´s mellow and melancholic tunes flow gently in the air, caressing the listener´s ear, splendidly performed by the quartet members. Lloyd´s soloing is beautifully fluid and tender. Bobo´s piano parts are in full harmony with the leader´s melodic approach and his soloing takes the music towards more spacey planes. The bass and drums, which have a limited straightforward rhythmic role in this setting, ornament the music with pulsation and accents, always perfectly suited with the melodic flow.
The album was, not surprisingly, received quite coldly by American critics and audiences, which at the time (late 1980s / early 1990s) approached the "ECM sound" with extreme caution and called it by the derogatory term "Euro Jazz", which proves that America was then still completely stuck in the conservative / retarded Jazz approach. Although in the three decades that passed since that time ECM managed to crack the American Jazz establishment, and even became somewhat fashionable, sadly partly due to the label´s conformism, most Americans still don´t get the quintessence of European Jazz.
Although this album offers very little innovation or groundbreaking musical exploration, in retrospect it remains a solid mainstream statement, full of great melodies and virtuosic performances, which should please most contemporary Jazz connoisseurs. It lost nothing of its charm over time and probably will never do so, and since it is rather sadly forgotten today, my recommendation is to revisit it – satisfaction guaranteed! Although it is very difficult to get hold of lately, it was reissued by ECM as part of the "Old And New Masters Series", as one of the first five albums Lloyd recorded for ECM, combined in the Charles Lloyd "QuartetsFind albums with this title" Box Set.
| | Updated: 06/08/2019Posted: 06/08/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVE HOLLAND ~ EXTENSIONS
ECM 1410 (Barcode: 602517758421) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2008
British bassist / composer Dave HollandFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the greatest Masters of his trade. From his role as a member of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensembles at their most revolutionary transition period through his work with other distinguished Jazz musicians and his work as a leader, Holland emerges as a pillar of stability and inventiveness combined into one Genius. This brilliant album presents Holland in somewhat unusual setting, with a quartet comprising of US musicians: saxophonist Steve ColemanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Kevin EubanksFind albums by this artist and drummer Marvin SmithFind albums by this artist, which means that the music includes a certain measure of Funk, which is not what Holland´s music is associated with normally. However, the leader and the group emerge victorious (as expected), with the music being fresh and artistically perfect, not allowing the Funk to dominate it, but cleverly incorporating it within. Holland, Coleman and Eubanks contribute two compositions each, and this highly spirited and brilliantly played music is a delightful musical experience. Superb stuff!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ MUSIC FOR LARGE & SMALL ENSEMBLES
ECM 1415/16 (Barcode: 042284315227) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1990
Trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist has been one of the great pillars of the British and international Jazz scene for five consecutive decades. His role as one of the most creative protagonists of the British / European Jazz revolution in the 1960s / 1970s was invaluable, but Wheeler continued his seemingly endless streak of creativity into the 21st Century, staying relevant and up to date, with very few rivaling forces of his magnitude. This album, in retrospect, is in many respects a pinnacle of his recording career and firmly belongs to the exclusive club of the top Jazz recordings of all time. Wheeler present here some of his best and most ambitious compositions, both as a composer for a large Jazz orchestra and a small Jazz combo, like the quintet featured here. The list of names of the participating musicians – all 19 of them – reads like the who´s who of modern British Jazz with a couple of American guests (guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist) added for good measure. Pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, his wife the divine vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist are just the more familiar of these names. The music is of course heavenly, regardless of the large or small format, both melodically, harmonically and structurally. Wheeler emerges as a Master composer and bandleader and the resulting music is a source of immense pleasure, both aesthetically and intellectually. This is a masterpiece and an essential piece of music, which is a worthy addition to any serious music library. Beyond essential!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Truly (and surprisingly) "Essential"; I generally avoid large ensembles, but this is different as the individual voices of the specific participants were planned for and can be clearly heard
| | | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ ROAD TO SAINT IVES
ECM 1418 (Barcode: 042284384926) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1990
Breathtakingly beautiful solo album by the British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist recorded completely on his own using studio overdubs of bass clarinet, soprano saxophone, baritone saxophone, keyboards and percussion tracks. Surman composed all the music, which was inspired by the wonderful county of Cornwell. Surman, conversing with himself, has more to say than most groups of musicians do – he is simply an undeniable Genius. A must to people with huge (just kidding) ears!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE CURE
ECM 1440 (Barcode: 042284965026) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1991
This is a live "standards" recording by the piano trio with pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, except for one original Jarrett piece, which gives the album its title. The trio will record a long series of live "standards" albums in the scope of the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression between the players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Among the many wonderful albums by this trio, The Cure manages to be outstanding, particularly for the final track, with its almost painfully restrained and very exciting drum work
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
ECM 1463 (Barcode: 731451198120) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992
This is a masterful quartet recording by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, accompanied by two American masters: pianist Paul BleyFind albums by this artist and bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and British drummer extraordinaire Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. Surman gives a lot of credit to his partners on this album as compositions by all three of them are included herein with one composition coming from outside of the quartet, which is by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist. Surman contributes four of his original composition here. This is one of the most Jazz oriented and certainly Free Jazz oriented albums Surman recorded in the later part of his illustrious career and one of my personal all time favorites. Somehow the best of all the participants is encapsulated on this album; the virtuosity, the imagination, the interplay and the telepathic conversations are overwhelming. Oxley´s rare appearance is especially important and his completely unique approach to rhythm and percussive sounds is brilliantly documented here, particularly in view of the incredible sound quality of this recording, as usual with the ECMFind albums on this label catalogue. This is a masterpiece in every respect, and although most things done by Surman are quite outstanding, this one is particularly brilliant. Anybody with a pair of ears, which have been fairly recently cleaned, should find this irresistible. See also the "In The Evenings Out ThereFind albums with this title" album recorded by the same quartet!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ NOTES FROM BIG SUR
ECM 1465 (Barcode: 731451199929) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Ralph PetersonFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ BYE BYE BLACKBIRD
ECM 1467 (Barcode: 731451307423) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1993
US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was of course a member of the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist ensembles at the most pivotal period of their existence, and therefore his association with Miles surely influenced his future development. This album, recorded immediately (two weeks later) after Miles Davis died, is a loving tribute to the Great Master. Accompanied by his regular trio: bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist; Jarrett performs eight compositions, six of which were often performed and recorded by Miles and two new compositions dedicated to him. The performances are of course stellar, as usual for this trio, and the album is a must for any serious Jazz connoisseur. Miles remembered!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY ~ IN THE EVENINGS OUT THERE
ECM 1488 (Barcode: 731451746925) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1993
Brilliant album by US pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist with a superb quartet, which includes bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and two British Jazz Masters: saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – a brilliant group of players that sadly didn´t record together again so far. These players are ideal partners to Bley´s deep lyricism and atmospheric approach to music. The album includes twelve relatively short pieces, composed by all four participants, and played in solo, duet, trio and quartet settings. Altogether a magnificent album, although not an easy listening experience to less refined listeners. These are the moments worth living for in music!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ THE CALL
ECM 1522 (Barcode: 602517799240) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2008
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform nine original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ A BIOGRAPHY OF THE REV. ABSALOM DAWE
ECM 1528 (Barcode: 731452374929) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
This is one more of the legendary solo projects by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, created by recording multiple layers of sound produced by alto and bass clarinets, soprano and baritone saxophones and keyboards, beautifully combined together creating heavenly music, which is like no other. Jazz, Classical, Ethnic & World and some other music varieties, which can only exist in Surman´s head before they are recorded, are present here for all of us to enjoy. Surman is a wizard of melody and sound, a Pied Piper, who strolls in front of a crowd of his followers enchanted by his unearthly inventions. There is little that needs to be added here, apart from recommending this music wholeheartedly – if this does not move you, you have a heart of stone!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
*THE* essential Surman, IMHO!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ STRANGER THAN FICTION
ECM 1534 (Barcode: 731452185020) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1994
This absolutely brilliant album by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist is very special as it was recorded by an all-British quartet, which consists of legendary players associated with the British Jazz revolution of the 1960s / 1970s, when they all used to play together. Surman is surrounded by true friends: pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist, and this sympathetic personal vibes obviously influence the musicians, who play their hearts out. Of the eight compositions sic are by Surman and the other two are co-composed by the entire quartet. Although recorded some twenty years after the British Jazz was at its absolute creative peak, this album is still a great evidence of the potential and aptitude of the scene. Of course by now there are many young and extremely talented British musicians around, but these old-timers not only have no intention of leaving us, hopefully any time soon, but still can play like nobody else. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AZIMUTH ~ HOW IT WAS THEN… NEVER AGAIN
ECM 1538 (Barcode: 731452382023) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
This is the 5th (and so far last) album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the great British Jazz trio AzimuthFind albums by this artist, which consists of three British Jazz icons since the 1960s: vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, her husband pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. These exquisite players combine their talents in this unique ensemble, which is all about elegance, delicacy and sophistication. This almost "chamber" setting produces music, which is timeless, cross-genre and above all aesthetically fulfilling and deeply moving. Winstone´s usage of the human voice both in her singing and vocalese is simply breathtaking, and I personally can never get enough of it. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Really exciting stuff: Kenny Wheeler double tracks on some pieces - the spirit flies! And John Taylor plays some bass lines on the piano strings. But these odd facts make it sound gimmicky, which it is not - I second Adam´s comment that this is "above all aesthetically fulfilling and deeply moving"
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | EDWARD VESALA ~ NORDIC GALLERY
ECM 1541 (Barcode: 731452329424) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 - 1994 Released: 1994
This is the last ECMFind albums on this label album by the great Finnish drummer / composer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, recorded a few years before his untimely death in 1999. Vesala was one of the great forefathers of the extraordinary Finnish Jazz scene, which started to develop in the 1960s, as well as one of the great figures of European Jazz, as collaborator with musicians from many European countries, like the Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist for example. In the last years prior to his death Vesala led an ensemble called Sound & FuryFind albums by this artist, comprised of young Finnish players, which is present on this album. Several additional musicians are also present, including the legendary bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist. The music, all written by Vesala, is as usual based on Finnish folklore and mixes in Jazz improvisation, contemporary Classical idioms, World Music and Avant-Rock. This is definitely not easy music, but its Nordic serenity and intrinsic beauty are captivating. Warmly recommended to the more adventurous listeners!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MATKA JOANNA
ECM 1544 (Barcode: 731452398628) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. This is the first of the two albums Stanko recorded with this quartet. The album is dedicated to the Polish film director Jerzy KawalerowiczFind albums by this artist, whose film "Matka Joanna Od Aniolow" (1961) was a groundbreaking masterpiece of the Polish post-WWII cinema. The music was composed mostly by Stanko, but also co-composed by the quartet members and includes one composition by Oxley. This is one of the last albums, on which Stanko´s compositions are very sparse and the music is mostly freely improvised. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both greatly gifted players. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AZIMUTH ~ AZIMUTH / THE TOUCHSTONE / DEPART
ECM 1546/48 (Barcode: 731452301024) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 - 1979 Released: 1994
This wonderful Box Set contains the first three albums by the superb British trio AzimuthFind albums by this artist, which consists of three Jazz icons: vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, her husband pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, recorded in the 1970s and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "AzimuthFind albums with this title" (ECM 1099) recorded in 1977, "The TouchstoneFind albums with this title" (ECM 1130) recorded in 1978 and "DepartFind albums with this title" (ECM 1163) recorded in 1979. On the last album the trio is expanded to a quartet with the participation of the US guitar virtuoso Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist. These exquisite players combine their talents in this unique ensemble, which is all about elegance, delicacy and sophistication. This almost "chamber" setting produces music, which is timeless, cross-genre and above all aesthetically fulfilling and deeply moving. Winstone´s usage of the human voice both in her singing and vocalese is simply breathtaking, and I personally can never get enough of it. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note: These three albums were not reissued or are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
It´s a pleasure to be able to fill in the "back story" to the relatively recent Azimuth albums - thanks to ECM and of course to Adam!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ NORDIC QUARTET
ECM 1553 (Barcode: 731452712028) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Breathtakingly beautiful album by British saxophone Giant John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded with Nordic (or rather Norwegian) friends: singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist and pianist Vigleik StoraasFind albums by this artist. Anybody familiar with Surman´s immense talent needs no introduction to his music, but this album is rather special in many respects and therefore uniquely interesting. The Norwegian partners fill this album with typical Scandinavian chilly atmosphere and the result is simply stunning. Rypdal, as usual, adds his ambient layers, Storaas delicately fills the spaces with his touch, but the true star of this album is my old friend Karin Krog, with her amazing vocal performances. Although little known outside her country, I´ve always considered her as one of the greatest female Jazz singers out there. Surman is of course brilliant, as always, both as a player and a composer (he composed and co-composed the majority of the music herein). This music works better in the heat of the day than a full-blast air conditioning unit! An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ ALL MY RELATIONS
ECM 1557 (Barcode: 731452734426) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ AT THE BLUE NOTE – THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS
ECM 1575/80 (Barcode: 731452763822) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist on piano, Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist on bass and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist on drums / 3 nights / 6 Sets / 38 tunes / almost 8 hours / 6 CDs / 1 Box – these "statistics" say it all really. This is the best music (mostly timeless standards and some Jarrett originals) played by the best musicians (the above) in the best possible setting (piano trio), in short heaven on earth. Anybody saying this is excessive and self-indulging is simply nuts – there is no such thing as too much of great music. Listening to these performances is not only a sublime aesthetic experience but also a great opportunity to witness how the process of improvisation works, day after day, hour after hour, never repeating and always re-inventing the invented each time anew. The only question is: Can you afford it? If so, grab it, if not, starve and then grab it!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I love the Jarrett Trio and I love marathon sessions of playing related CDs, so this was bound to be a special experience, but it is even better than I hoped. Having said that, for an even more thrilling version of Ellington´s "Things Ain´t What They Used To Be," listen to the encore on the Jarrett Trio´s "The Cure," recorded live at NY City Hall a few years earlier and not yet on Jazzis. (PS - not to be confused with the mock-Cockney song "Fings Ain´t Wot They Used To Be")
| | | CD 6 Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIERRE FAVRE ~ WINDOW STEPS
ECM 1584 (Barcode: 731452934826) ~ SWITZERLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 1996
This is a wonderful album by Swiss Jazz drummer / composer Pierre FavreFind albums by this artist recorded with an international team of Jazz stars: British (of Canadian origin) trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Italian saxophonist Roberto OttavianoFind albums by this artist, American cellist David DarlingFind albums by this artist and bassist Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions: four by Favre, one by Darling and two co-composed by members of the band. The music was superbly recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist.
The music is beautifully melodic, contemplative and strangely Nordic in character, although no Scandinavian players are present. It borders on contemporary Chamber Music and includes some New Age accents, but is first and foremost elegantly European and completely artistically uncompromising. Both Darling and Swallow, who are American musicians, have played with European musicians throughout their extensive careers, and this influence can be felt here clearly.
The instrumental performances are all stellar, as expected, and although most of the music in minimalist and subdued, there is enough space for formidable soloing, especially by Wheeler, who plays some outstanding notes on this album. Many Wheeler followers are not aware of his playing on this album and this is why I decided to add this review now, although the music was recorded two and a half decades earlier.
But of course the rest of this splendid team also contributes generously and the album offers a continuous graceful musical joy ride, which used to characterize most of ECMFind albums on this label releases in the early days of the label´s activity. This album is wholeheartedly recommended to all European Jazz connoisseurs and absolute must to all lovers of Kenny Wheeler´s artistry.
| | Updated: 27/08/2020Posted: 27/08/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MISHA ALPERIN ~ NORTH STORY
ECM 1596 (Barcode: 731453102224) ~ RUSSIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 1997
The Soviet Union produced some truly amazing Jazz musicians, including Avant-Garde pioneers and prophetic innovators, who were almost completely unknown outside of the empire´s borders. The fate of the Soviet Jazz is a fascinating chapter in the music´s history. Following the collapse of the Soviet regime, many of the musicians, who were active on the local scene, left the country, including pianist / composer Misha AlperinFind albums by this artist, who now lives in Norway. His recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, starting with the "Wave Of SorrowFind albums with this title" album (the first album by Soviet musicians to be released on ECM) brought his wonderful music to the attention of a much wider audience, which of course is well deserved. This is Alperin´s 2nd album on ECM, released almost a decade after the debut. He is accompanied by his life-long friend and musical partner Arkady ShilkloperFind albums by this artist, who plays French horn and flugelhorn, and three Norwegian musicians: saxophonist Tore BrunborgFind albums by this artist, bassist Terje GeweltFind albums by this artist and Master drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. Alperin´s music is contemplative and deeply moving, complex but also melodic, reminiscent of some contemporary Classical music but with a distinct Jazz connection. It is devilishly difficult to perform and the musicians present here are obviously all virtuosi. I can´t imagine any serious music connoisseur not falling in love with this music immediately and if you´re not familiar with it, now is the time!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I came to Alperin via his collaboration with John Surman on "First Impression," which is highly recommended; and I am grateful to Adam for pushing me to try more of his work, starting here. Tore Brunborg is uncannily like Jan Garbarek at first hearing; is this a Norwegian national style?
Christopher Brice
PS: On this album, ECM breaks with the habit of putting a larger version of the cover photo on the slip case: the cover and slip case give us four different photos of what seems to be the same event; but as ever, there are no details given
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LEOSIA
ECM 1603 (Barcode: 731453169326) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, dedicated to his late Mother, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. Stanko´s compositions on this album are more melodic and lyrical than usual, perhaps in view of the fact that he intentionally wished to concentrate on melody here. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both extremely melodic players themselves. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ ANGEL SONG
ECM 1607 (Barcode: 731453309821) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
This is a painfully beautiful album by British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, one the most creative and artistically perfect Jazz musicians on this planet. Here in a drum-less quartet with veteran US saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist, guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and British genius bass player Dave HollandFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine new original compositions by Wheeler, all quite lyrical and exquisitely melodic, as always. It is very interesting to hear Konitz and Frisell play here in a serene and somewhat subdued way, contrary to their usual expressive and more energetic approach. Holland is truly amazing, taking the rhythmic duties all upon him and still managing to add some melody lines as well. This is angelic music indeed, in every respect, a perfect piece of music from start to finish and a must to any serious Jazz connoisseur. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARILYN CRISPELL ~ NOTHING EVER WAS, ANYWAY. MUSIC OF ANNETTE PEACOCK
ECM 1626/27 (Barcode: 731453722224) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Beautiful album by US pianist Marilyn CrispellFind albums by this artist with legendary bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, which pays tribute to the extraordinary compositions by Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist. Crispell worked with Annette Peacock for several months selecting the music to be included on this album and Annette herself adds her vocals to one of the songs. Annette Peacock is undoubtedly one of the greatest ballad composers in contemporary Jazz, with an impressive songbook going back to the 1960s. Her celebrated work over the years, which includes cooperation with Avant-Garde, Rock, Prog and Jazz musicians, is truly amazing and extraordinary in scope and diversity. Pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist was the first Jazz musician, who started to feature Annette´s compositions on his numerous albums, starting as early as 1964. This album is a most fitting tribute to her life-long achievements and a masterpiece of contemporary music. Brilliant!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
No album with this rhythm section could be truly monotonous but IMHO the material did not sustain itself over the whole album, despite the intervention from (Mrs) Peacock at the end of the first disc - the later Amaryllis with the same line up (which I bought first) is much more interesting, with many tunes composed by Motian or (Mr) Peacock
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ CANTO
ECM 1635 (Barcode: 731453734524) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform seven original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LITANIA – MUSIC OF KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA
ECM 1636 (Barcode: 731453755123) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Anybody familiar with the history of European Jazz is of course aware of the fact that Stanko was a member of the early modern Polish Jazz group led by his Mentor pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, one of world´s most important Jazz personalities, a Godfather of Polish Jazz and a phenomenal composer, in retrospect perhaps one of the greatest composers in Jazz history. Stanko´s musical personality was obviously formed and shaped by his association with Komeda, a fact that he often openly admits. Although Stanko occasionally paid homage to Komeda on his recordings over the years, it was only a matter of time until Stanko would produce a full-scope project as a tribute to Komeda´s music (and Komeda the man), and this is it. Stanko carefully arranged a series of composition by Komeda, ranging from his early works to his latest ones, and presents them here, performed by a septet comprising of Scandinavian musicians. Of course this is not a coincidence, as Komeda´s music was first recognized and acknowledged as exceptional outside his native country in Scandinavia (Sweden in particular), Poland´s northern neighbors, where Komeda performed during his lifetime, played and recorded with local musician and befriended many of them. The lineup includes Swedish saxophonists Bernt ResengrenFind albums by this artist (a veteran player of Komeda´s generation) and Joakim MilderFind albums by this artist, pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist, and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist (present on three tracks only). Since I´ve already written extensively about Komeda´s music, I will only say that these performances manage both to preserve the original beauty and depth of it, as well as transform is successfully into the present Jazz idiom, with grace, intelligence and deep respect. The performances are stellar from start to finish, the solos breathtaking, the rhythm session imaginative, yet solid like a rock – in other words this is perfect in every sense one can associate with music. This is a worthy and fitting tribute to the great Genius by the best and most sensitive musicians around and an absolute must in any music library, regardless of genre preferences. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ ONENESS
ECM 1637 (Barcode: 731453734326) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
This is an excellent, but unfortunately little known album by the legendary drummer / composer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. In parallel to his work as a sideman with the most important Jazz musicians for over 40 years, he also led his own ensembles, like this one. The album was recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Michael CainFind albums by this artist, guitarist / bassist Jerome HarrisFind albums by this artist and veteran percussionist Don AliasFind albums by this artist, and presents original music, written by DeJohnette or co-written by the quartet members. The music, firmly rooted in the Jazz tradition, embraces a cross-genre attitude, wandering into other territories, like atmospheric ambient or contemporary Classical music. This is definitely the more introvert and gentle side of this great musician. The album yet again emphasizes DeJohnette´s pivotal role in modern Jazz, always in the epicenter of creative breakthroughs. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ PROVERBS AND SONGS
ECM 1639 (Barcode: 731453779921) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
This is a breathtakingly beautiful album by the British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who never stands still even for one moment, constantly re-inventing himself. Combining Jazz and contemporary Classical music, Surman composed this music for the Salisbury Festival and it was recorded live at the overwhelmingly impressive Salisbury Cathedral with Surman, keyboardist John TaylorFind albums by this artist at the cathedral´s organ and the festival´s chorus. Not for everybody, but people who can appreciate this love every bit of this amazing music.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANOUAR BRAHEM ~ THIMAR
ECM 1641 (Barcode: 731453988828) ~ TUNISIA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1998
This is an absolutely astounding piece of music by the Tunisian oud Master Anouar BrahemFind albums by this artist, accompanied by two British Jazz legends: Saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist and bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist. The music completely eludes all attempts of classification, although obviously most listeners will probably tend to see it as a mixture of Jazz and World music. In fact, although it is composed (by Brahem except for one peace each by Surman and Holland) it´s pretty obvious that it was created as an improvisation by these musicians. The most astounding aspect of this recording is the obvious ease and natural "feel" displayed by Surman and Holland playing this music, in spite of their overwhelming Jazz background, which perhaps prove the intimate relationship between Middle Eastern music and Jazz, both being of course highly improvised. It goes without saying that I recommend this gem to every open-minded music lover, as the experience of listening to it is highly rewarding and deeply moving!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ TOKYO `96
ECM 1666 (Barcode: 731453995529) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1998
This is a live recording by the piano trio led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. Following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, the trio recorded a long sequence of live "standards" albums during the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression by the individual players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ VOICE IN THE NIGHT
ECM 1674 (Barcode: 731455944525) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and US drummer Billy HigginsFind albums by this artist. Together they perform six original compositions by Lloyd and two standards, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Very interesting interplay between Lloyd and Abercrombie, so that the guitarist merges more than usual with the other lead, and does not stick always to the trade mark Abercrombie style, sounding sometimes like Wes Montgomery and occasionally almost like Mark Knopfler!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ FROM THE GREEN HILL
ECM 1680 (Barcode: 731454733625) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. This album, perhaps the most atypical one ever recorded by Stanko so far, presents his music somewhat away from the usual Jazz setting, with strong contemporary Classical and World Music influences. Not only the music, but also the choice of the musicians participating in this recording, is quite different from everything he attempted before. British saxophone Giant John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Argentinean bandoneon player Dino SaluzziFind albums by this artist, American violinist Michelle MakarskiFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist create an amazing amalgam of sounds and musical ventures, travelling along Stanko´s vision. Of the fourteen relatively short pieces on this album nine were composed by Stanko, two by his Mentor Krzysztof Komeda and three by Surman. The overall effect is like a strange and enchanted sound voyage, which moves around the globe oblivious of borders and distances. Although quite demanding and less glamorous than other Stanko albums, it is full of beauty and charm and definitely worthy of admiration, like everything Stanko ever recorded. Superb stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Who would have thought that an accordion (OK, bandoneon) could be a major enhancement of a Stanko album or a Surman album? But it is - and Messrs S&S are a fabulous partnership.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ A LONG TIME AGO
ECM 1691 (Barcode: 731454719025) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1997 - 1998 Released: 1999
This is the 8th and so far the last ECMFind albums on this label album by the great British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. Subtitled "Music for Brass Ensemble and Soloists", this outstanding album presents a set of Wheeler´s magnificent compositions, including two suites, performed by a Brass octet and three soloists – himself on trumpet, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and guitarist John ParricelliFind albums by this artist. With no rhythm section, the music sounds quite different than one might have expected from a large ensemble, but in Wheeler´s hands it all works like magic, which of course is hardly surprising. Multi-layered melody lines and intricate arrangements don´t stay in the way of the listener to enjoy every note of this music, which is most warmly recommended for most people with a taste for adventure and a sense of aesthetics. Not to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ CORUSCATING
ECM 1702 (Barcode: 731454303323) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000
This is a breathtakingly beautiful and divine album by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who again proves being one of the central figures in contemporary music worldwide. Accompanied only by the brilliant veteran British bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and a string quartet, Surman explores this time the realms of chamber Jazz, integrating the string quartet arrangements and individual string parts into his music with amazing skill and ingenuity. The eleven new compositions presented here are brilliant from start to finish, as always, presenting yet another vista of his amazing talent and versatility. There is no point in going much further here, as anybody familiar with Surman´s prolific body of work needs no convincing; those who don´t, well it´s never too late, is it? Surman recorded another album with these same musicians seven years later ("The Spaces In BetweenFind albums with this title").
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOUIS SCLAVIS ~ L`AFFRONTEMENT DES PRETENDANTS
ECM 1705 (Barcode: 601215992724) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2001
This is an excellent album by French clarinetists / saxophonist / composer Louis SclavisFind albums by this artist with his superb quintet, which also includes trumpeter Jean-Luc CappozzoFind albums by this artist, cellist Vincent CourtoisFind albums by this artist, bassist Bruno ChevillonFind albums by this artist and drummer Francois MervilleFind albums by this artist. The music, which was all composed or co-composed by Sclavis, is a wonderful amalgam of Jazz and contemporary Classical influences, with a typical European approach, which mixes sophistication and imagination with musical tradition. The performances are all stellar and although this is by for not easy music, the result should be accessible even to less experienced listeners. Of course there is plenty of fascinating moments here, especially the bass work (including several outstanding solos) which is most impressive. Sclavis certainly solidifies his position as one of the leaders of contemporary European Jazz scene. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ WHISPER NOT
ECM 1724/25 (Barcode: 731454381628) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000
This is a live recording by the piano trio led by pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. Following the "standards" studio recordings in the early 1980s, the trio recorded a long sequence of live "standards" albums during the following two decades. They play standards in a way no other piano trio does, with exceptional perception of the music, freedom of expression by the individual players and a telepathic connection between them. Anything said beyond this is simply superfluous, as I´ve already written extensively on this subject. This album, same as all the others of its kind, is an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur and piano trio lovers in particular. Brilliant!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TSABROPOULOS / ANDERSEN / MARSHALL ~ ACHIRANA
ECM 1728 (Barcode: 602448279248) ~ GREECE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2022
This is a reissue of a wonderful album by a trio consisting of Greek Jazz pianist / composer Vassilis TsabropoulosFind albums by this artist, Norwegian Jazz bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist and British Jazz drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, five composed by Tsabropoulos, two composed by Andersen and two co-composed by all three musicians. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by my Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, with the usual sublime sound quality.
The music is all beautifully melodic and lyrical, brilliantly performed by these Giant musicians. This is the 1st album recorded by this trio, followed by the no less beautiful “The TriangleFind albums with this title”, originally released in 2004. Tsabropoulos, who emerged as a Classical pianist, turns out to be a most sensitive Jazz musician, with wonderful improvisational qualities. Andersen, one of my favorite bass magicians on this planet, displays his usual qualities, which are simply breathtaking. Marshall, the veteran of British / European Jazz scene since the 1960s, was at the time still one of the best drummers around, here sticking mostly to the “less is more” approach.
Overall, this is an absolutely “classic” Jazz piano trio album, which deserves an honorary place on the shelf of the “best ever” recordings in that niche. Lovers of the Artistry of Bill EvansFind albums by this artist should be especially interested, as Tsabropoulos has often a very similar touch and style to the American Giant. Criminally overlooked and absolutely essential Piano trio album, which should not be missed by anybody, who calls himself a Jazz lover!
| | Updated: 05/08/2024Posted: 05/08/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNETTE PEACOCK ~ AN ACROBAT`S HEART
ECM 1733 (Barcode: 601215949629) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2000
A beautiful and deeply moving album by veteran US singer / pianist / composer Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist, commissioned by the ECMFind albums on this label label and placing the composer in a new (for her) musical environment, which merges Jazz and contemporary Classical music. Peacock plays and sings her enigmatic and deeply lyrical songs accompanied by the Cikada String QuartetFind albums by this artist. The album consists of 15 short compositions / songs, which together create a lengthy suite. As someone who has been enchanted by Peacock´s music for decades, I cherish this new addition to her musical legacy after a long period of silence, which preceded this recording. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARILYN CRISPELL ~ AMARYLLIS
ECM 1742 (Barcode: 044001340024) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is the second album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the great trio of US pianist / composer Marilyn CrispellFind albums by this artist with legendary bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and no less legendary drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. This time the music is all composed by the trio members (except for one track) and some of it is actually on the spot composed slow pieces improvised in the studio during the recording. Crispell is, as always, very introvert and secretive, with a minimalistic approach which draws the listener to become a part of the creative process while listening to the music. The music is very moving, with both the better known and the spontaneous pieces being equally enthralling but it requires attentive listening and involvement. Satisfaction guaranteed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Lovely album; I bought it because of Motian and Peacock and immediately fell in love with Crispell, too!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN TAYLOR ~ ROSSLYN
ECM 1751 (Barcode: 601215992427) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
Despite the fact that British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist appears on dozens of albums released by the German ECMFind albums on this label label, this is the only one released under his name. Recorded in a classic Jazz piano trio setting with American bassist Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist. It is the trio’s only recording, captured at the fabulous Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, offering a stunning sound quality. The album presents seven tracks, five of which are original compositions by Taylor, one is by his lifetime brother in arms Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and finally one is a standard.
The music presents mostly the poetic, deeply lyrical side of Taylor’s personality, both as composer and performer. The compositions are mostly melody based, but offer a long stretches of open space, which allow less rigor and allows creative freedom.
Taylor is ab absolute focus of the album, with the rhythm section being utterly respective and restrained, accompanying the piano delicately, but with great thoughtfulness and taste. This approach adds to the delicate atmosphere, which is almost meditative at times, emphasizing the “less is more” approach.
The album celebrated Taylor’s 60th birthday and was perhaps one of his most reflective moments in his long standing career, with every note perfectly articulated and the melodies full of the unique Englishness, which always characterized Taylor’s music. In retrospect it is definitely one of his best recordings of all time, and an absolute must in any decent British Jazz collection.
Overall this is an absolute classic Jazz album in every respects and an absolute ultimate Jazz piano trio recording in many respects, which should serve as an example of what Jazz is all about, and the perfect combination of melody and freedom. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 02/04/2021Posted: 02/04/2021 | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARILD ANDERSEN ~ THE TRIANGLE
ECM 1752 (Barcode: 602567430469) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of a wonderful album by Norwegian bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with Greek pianist Vassilis TsabropoulosFind albums by this artist and British drummer John MarshallFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, three composed by Andersen, four by Tsabropoulos, one a Classical piece arranged by him and finally one co-credited to all three musicians. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by my Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, with the usual sublime sound quality.
The music is all beautifully melodic and lyrical, brilliantly performed by these Giant musicians. This is a 2nd album recorded by this trio, following the no less beautiful “AchiranaFind albums with this title”, originally released in 2000. Tsabropoulos, who emerged as a Classical pianist, turns out to be a most sensitive Jazz musician, with wonderful improvisational qualities. Marshall, the veteran of British / European Jazz scene since the 1960s, was at the time still one of the best drummers around, here sticking mostly to the “less is more” approach. The leader, and one of my favorite bass magicians on this planet, displays his usual qualities, which are simply breathtaking.
Overall, this is an absolutely “classic” Jazz piano trio album, which deserves an honorary place on the shelf of the “best ever” recordings in that niche. Lovers of the Artistry of Bill EvansFind albums by this artist should be especially interested, as Tsabropoulos has often a very similar touch and style to the American Giant. Criminally overlooked and absolutely essential Piano trio album, which should not be missed by anybody, who calls himself a Jazz lover!
| | Updated: 03/08/2024Posted: 03/08/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | MISHA ALPERIN ~ AT HOME
ECM 1768 (Barcode: 731454961028) ~ RUSSIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2001
This is the 4th album on ECMFind albums on this label by ex-Soviet (now living in Norway) brilliant pianist / composer Misha AlperinFind albums by this artist, which finds him at the most intimate setting of all – alone at the piano in his house. Alperin´s music is contemplative and deeply moving, complex but also melodic, reminiscent of some contemporary Classical music but with a distinct Jazz connection. The twelve relatively short pieces presented here are all brilliant of course and deserve to be discovered. I can´t imagine any serious music connoisseur not falling in love with this music immediately and if you´re not familiar with it, now is the time!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MISHA ALPERIN ~ NIGHT
ECM 1769 (Barcode: 044001434129) ~ RUSSIA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2002
This is the 5th album on ECMFind albums by this artist by ex-Soviet (now living in Norway) brilliant pianist / composer Misha AlperinFind albums by this artist, which finds him in an intimate setting with two other musicians: German cellist Anja LechnerFind albums by this artist and Norwegian percussionist Hans-Kristian Kjos SorensenFind albums by this artist. The music, composed entirely by Alperin, was recorded live at a music festival held in Norway. Alperin´s music is contemplative and deeply moving, complex but also melodic, reminiscent of some contemporary Classical music but with a distinct Jazz connection. It is devilishly difficult to perform and the musicians present here are obviously all virtuosi. I can´t imagine any serious music connoisseur not falling in love with this music immediately and if you´re not familiar with it, now is the time!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ INSIDE OUT
ECM 1780 (Barcode: 044001400520) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly the most famous Jazz ensemble on the scene since at least two decades. All these musicians are absolute Masters of the trade, but what makes this trio tick is the telepathic conversation, that connects them into a perfect unison. A long and impressive array of recordings by this trio, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, is one of the pillar stones of modern Jazz, regardless of the fact if they play standards or original compositions by Jarrett. Each and every one of these recordings has something to offer and even if one already owns some of them, one more is always welcome. This album is a live recording at the Royal Festival Hall in London and the trio plays four original compositions and one standard. The music is just perfect, as is the recording quality, for which the label is famous. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ SOUL OF THINGS
ECM 1788 (Barcode: 044001637421) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2002
Legendary Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory, is definitely still in top form. This is the first album with his all Polish quartet, which includes brilliantly talented young Polish Jazz musicians: pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Although separated from his quartet members by decades (chronologically), Stanko is in perfect harmony with them, mentally, keeping his youthfulness, energy and creativity. Compared to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, who played progressively less and less during his late period, Stanko is still the main soloist in his groups, with his unique tone and expressionism untouched by age. His music remains majestic, mystical and deeply penetrating, as always, and this album is again a superb addition to his magnificent legacy. Absolutely brilliant stuff and a must to any serious Jazz aficionado!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Label this one "Essential"!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN / JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ INVISIBLE NATURE
ECM 1796 (Barcode: 044001637629) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2002
Twenty years after recording their previous duo project ("The Amazing Adventures Of Simon SimonFind albums with this title") for the ECMFind albums on this label label, British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist and US drummer / composer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist meet again for a live recording of almost completely improvised music, captured herein. Both these musicians have already established their status as Giants of modern music, which means they need not to prove anything anymore. This music is made for the pleasure (intellectual and emotional as one) of making music together and confirming the bond of musical friendship. The nature of Improvised Music makes it a priori more difficult to identify with than composed music. The process of the on-the-fly invention and creation can be extremely egocentric and intimate. But these two musicians magically create instantaneous music, which is communicative and immediately likeable, at least to well trained listeners. This album should be considered a true musical gem of rare quality by anybody with enough aesthetic integrity to listen to it open-mindedly. Surman´s virtuosity is simply spine-tingling and clearly time seems to flow in a parallel universe as far as he´s concerned, as he remains completely untouched by it. For me listening to this music evokes deeply emotional reaction, every time, confirming yet again my opinion that Surman is surely one of the very few prophetic musicians still among us. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ ALWAYS LET ME GO – LIVE IN TOKYO
ECM 1800/01 (Barcode: 044001878626) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2002
This live recording by the greatest piano trio in the world: pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is often referred to as one of their most spectacular moments. Infinitely complex musically and overwhelming emotionally, this music is an endless well of pleasures for any sensitive listener, which could last for one´s lifetime and probably will do so forever. This concert finds the trio performing music composed by Jarrett (except for two compositions credited to the trio), two of which span well over half an hour each, an unprecedented scope for a piano trio performance. Everything here is simply perfection incarnate and divine inspiration, so whatever else I could say is honestly completely redundant. An absolute must!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ FREE AND EQUAL
ECM 1802 (Barcode: 044001706523) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2003
This is a breathtakingly beautiful album by the British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who never stands still even for one moment, constantly re-inventing himself. Combining Jazz and contemporary Classical music, Surman composed this music to be performed by himself and veteran drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and accompanied by the superb brass ensemble London BrassFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live at Queen Elizabeth Hall, London. Not for everybody, but people who can appreciate this love every bit of this amazing music.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOUIS SCLAVIS ~ DANS LA NUIT
ECM 1805 (Barcode: 731458952428) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2002
This is an excellent album by French clarinetists / saxophonist / composer Louis SclavisFind albums by this artist with his superb quintet, which also includes violinist Dominique PifarelyFind albums by this artist, cellist Vincent CourtoisFind albums by this artist, accordionist Jean Louis MatinierFind albums by this artist and drummer Francois MervilleFind albums by this artist. The music was written to serve as a soundtrack to the legendary 1929 silent movie of the same title, by the French director Charles VanelFind albums by this artist, which was one of the last silent French movies made just before the arrival of the "talkies". Sclavis composed a wonderful piece of music, which suits the film perfectly (this is not his first cooperation with cinema) and is performed brilliantly by the entire quintet. It is a wonderful amalgam of Jazz and contemporary Classical influences, with a typical European approach, which mixes sophistication and imagination with musical tradition. The performances are all stellar and although this is by for not easy music, the result should be accessible even to less experienced listeners. Of course there is plenty of fascinating moments here and the entire album is basked in European aesthetics and the so very special French "fragrance". Sclavis certainly solidifies his position as one of the leaders of contemporary European Jazz scene. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | GIANLUIGI TROVESI ~ FUGACE
ECM 1827 (Barcode: 044006658322) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is an album by the legendary Italian Jazz saxophonist / clarinetist / composer / bandleader Gianluigi TrovesiFind albums by this artist, recorded with his all Italian octet. The album presents sixteen tracks, some of which present multi-part compositions. Most of the material consists of original compositions by Trovesi, with two exceptions: one standard and one traditional tune. All the music was arranged by Trovesi, with cellist Marco RemondiniFind albums by this artist adding his arranging touch on two tracks.
The music is a stunning amalgam of Italian folkloristic themes and early American Jazz traditions, creating a sleek, modern orchestral sound, which reflects complex themes of cinematic nature. It is music, which invites the listener to take a magic carpet ride between New Orleans and Italian pastures, full of little surprising signature tunes, which blend splendidly into a kaleidoscopic imaginary landscape.
Although potentially a mighty powerful vehicle, the octet performs delicately and sparingly, and the resulting music is mostly gentle and minimalist, blending the brass and rhythm elements carefully and elegantly. The album offers to the listener a fascinating musical journey, constantly changing, with many unexpected twists and turns, but always following a coherent continuance and exquisite balance, composed, arranged and perfectly executed with truly European aesthetics.
Overall, this is a brilliant piece of music, which offers the finest European Jazz aesthetics, even when it pays a loving tribute to the early American Jazz tradition. The music is highly original and full of unexpected elements for the entire duration, which means there is never a dull moment. This is one of the finest ECMFind albums on this label albums recorded past 2000 as far as I am concerned.
| | Updated: 10/11/2024Posted: 10/11/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TORD GUSTAVSEN ~ CHANGING PLACES
ECM 1834 (Barcode: 044001639722) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 - 2002 Released: 2003
This is the 1st album on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by Norwegian pianist / composer Tord GustavsenFind albums by this artist. Recorded in a trio format with bassist Harald JohnsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jarle VespestadFind albums by this artist this most impressive debut includes music, all composed by Gustavsen, which is absolutely brilliant in its typical Nordic way; relaxed, romantic, lyrical and beautifully melodic. Rather than dwelling in extended improvisations the album presents thirteen relatively short pieces, all of which are based on a beautiful melody line, which serves as a basis of sonic excursions. The trio performs superbly together, with the bass playing an important role and soloing extensively and the drummer fulfills the blanks and silences in between. Although some listeners might find the Nordic music "cold", this is a complete nonsense, and careful listening will eventually disclose the passionate nature of this music, beneath the stern exterior. Absolutely brilliant stuff and a major new voice!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ UP FOR IT
ECM 1860 (Barcode: 044003831728) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
In the liner notes accompanying this CD, pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist describes the circumstances surrounding this particular live recording by the trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist at the Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival (southern France). Following an extremely difficult period full of personal problems, experienced by these great musicians (including health problems, with are always the worst), they were all ready to hit bottom at that particular moment. But a miraculous ray of sunshine uplifted their spirits and enabled them to go on stage, being "up for it" – to play a wonderful set of standards. No other trio on this planet plays the standards the way they do and pray God they will continue to do so as long as they are able. As always, this is divine stuff, every little sound-bit, every pause, every nuance and every breath of air. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ UNIVERSAL SYNCOPATIONS
ECM 1863 (Barcode: 044003850620) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
Soon after his arrival in the US from his native Czechoslovakia, bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist became one of the central figures in the vortex of Jazz activity in the late 1960s / early 1970s with the emergence of American Fusion. Over the years Vitous played with all the great Masters, both in the US and in Europe and this recording by the super-group quintet proves his status as a member of the Jazz elite. Saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist combine forces with Vitous, performing nine of his original compositions, two of which were co-composed with Garbarek and one with DeJohnette. On three of these compositions the quintet is expanded to an octet, with the addition of three brass players. The result is a mixture of modern Jazz and occasional Fusion experiments, with plenty of space for the individual players to improvise. The level of musicianship is of course staggering and the overall result should please most listeners of contemporary Jazz. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ SUSPENDED NIGHT
ECM 1868 (Barcode: 602498112441) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2004
Legendary Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory, is definitely still in top form. This is the second album with his all Polish quartet, which includes brilliantly talented young Polish Jazz musicians: pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Although separated from his quartet members by decades (chronologically), Stanko is in perfect harmony with them, mentally, keeping his youthfulness, energy and creativity. Compared to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, who played progressively less and less during his late period, Stanko is still the main soloist in his groups, with his unique tone and expressionism untouched by age. His music remains majestic, mystical and deeply penetrating, as always, and this album is again a superb addition to his magnificent legacy. Absolutely brilliant stuff and a must to any serious Jazz aficionado!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ TRIO
ECM 1891 (Barcode: 602498206324) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
This is the debut album on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by the great Polish Jazz trio, called Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, led by pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist with bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. If these names seem somewhat familiar to you, no wander, as they were also the members of the superb Polish quartet led by the legendary trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, which recorded three albums for ECM. However, the ECM recording is far from being the trio´s recording debut, as they have been active on the local scene in Poland a whole decade earlier and recorded several brilliant albums already. Always in top form, sensitive and technically perfect, these musicians are pillars of the new generation of Polish Jazz and their music is a true inspiration. The thirteen pieces presented on this album come from a variety of sources, from Pop to Classical music and about half of the material was composed or co-composed by the trio members. This is one of the best piano trios in the world and everything they touch turns to instant musical gold. This album is no different and every Jazz fan on this planet should enjoy it greatly. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TORD GUSTAVSEN ~ THE GROUND
ECM 1892 (Barcode: 028947619383) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2004
This is the 2nd album on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by Norwegian pianist / composer Tord GustavsenFind albums by this artist. Recorded in a trio format, same as the debut, with bassist Harald JohnsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jarle VespestadFind albums by this artist this most impressive follow up includes music, all composed by Gustavsen, which is absolutely brilliant in its typical Nordic way; relaxed, romantic, lyrical and beautifully melodic. Rather than dwelling in extended improvisations the album presents twelve relatively short pieces, all of which are based on a beautiful melody line, which serves as a basis of sonic excursions. The trio performs superbly together, with the bass playing an important role and soloing extensively and the drummer fulfills the blanks and silences in between. Although some listeners might find the Nordic music "cold", this is a complete nonsense, and careful listening will eventually disclose the passionate nature of this music, beneath the stern exterior. Absolutely brilliant stuff and a major new voice!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANU KATCHÉ ~ NEIGHBOURHOOD
ECM 1896 (Barcode: 602498698150) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
First recording on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by French / African (born in Ivory Coast) drummer / composer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist, who established his international career in the 1980s when he played with Peter GabrielFind albums by this artist, StingFind albums by this artist and many others Rock stars. However, his true vocation is Jazz, as this spectacular album shows. Accompanied by a dreamy team of musicians: Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and legendary Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist with two young players from his quartet - pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist; Katché presents ten original compositions, all written by him. The music is brilliant from start to finish, superbly performed by all the participants with Katché´s drumming, as unusual as it is for Jazz, adding a new dimension. African rhythms and pulsations play a major role in Katché´s drumming, but they are not aggressive and overly dominating, which is all for the best. Altogether this is a superb piece of music, full of heavenly moments and surprises. An absolute must!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
The playing, recording and production are outstandingly good, including the interplay between these wonderful musicians; but I have to say that the composition is not as interesting as we would expect on a Stanko or Garbarek album
Christopher Brice
Something keeps drawing me back to this album despite the partly negative comment above, and I have even been tempted to try MK´s later Playground; This album really does have a special sound, but those little repetitive parts do irritate.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE OUT-OF-TOWNERS
ECM 1900 (Barcode: 602498196106) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2004
The Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist piano trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist is not only the most famous Jazz ensemble but also the best there is in that niche. Playing together since 1983, they sure had enough time together to become inseparable as a music-making unit. They certainly don´t have to prove anything anymore, which allows them to select freely what they want to play together. The decision to play mostly standards is a courageous one, as playing standards is sometimes considered limited and unimaginative. But that does not apply to what this trio is doing, even if they are doing it for so long. The way they re-invent standards and expand them with their own additions is simply miraculous and unparalleled. And so every new album by this trio is simply another musical adventure, we can all enjoy. This live recording is a bit special, as it includes a solo piano track (the last track on the album), which so far was never part of the trio´s albums. This is beyond recommendations and praises, just get it and enjoy.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ GOODBYE
ECM 1904 (Barcode: 602498251737) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
This is a beautiful album by Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, one of the most important modern European Jazz musicians with an extensive recording legacy, which includes many absolute classic Jazz albums. Recorded with his trio with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, the music includes original composition by Stenson, and Motian, as well as standards and lesser known pieces like, one even by Classical composer Henry PurcellFind albums by this artist arranged by Jormin. This musical diversity reflects well Stenson´s ability to feel comfortable in any musical setting, always elegantly and with true virtuosity. The performances are stellar indeed and overall this is a perfect piano trio album, which is my favorite format. The album is an absolute must to all piano / piano trio lovers and serious Jazz connoisseurs.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ THE SPACES IN BETWEEN
ECM 1956 (Barcode: 602517235861) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is a breathtakingly beautiful and divine album by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, who again proves being one of the central figures in contemporary music worldwide. Accompanied only by the brilliant veteran British bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and a string quartet, Surman explores this time the realms of chamber Jazz, integrating the string quartet arrangements and individual string parts into his music with amazing skill and ingenuity. The eleven new compositions presented here are brilliant from start to finish, as always, presenting yet another vista of his amazing talent and versatility. There is no point in going much further here, as anybody familiar with Surman´s prolific body of work needs no convincing; those who don´t, well it´s never too late, is it?
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARILYN MAZUR / JAN GARBAREK ~ ELIXIR
ECM 1962 (Barcode: 602517373204) ~ DENMARK ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2008
This is a beautiful intimate cooperation between Danish percussionist Marilyn MazurFind albums by this artist and saxophone legend Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist. Mazur played as a regular member of the Garbarek ensemble for many years and recorded numerous albums with him, but this is the first album where she and her percussion instruments from all over the world stand in the centre of attention and calls the shots. Garbarek responds sympathetically to the rhythmic clues supplied by Mazur and the evolving dialog is deeply moving and aesthetically highly elegant. Both musicians obviously respect each other deeply, which is a basis for any meaningful conversation, musical or otherwise. This kind of music demands total attention from the listener, but the experience is highly rewarding and well worth trying out. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LONTANO
ECM 1980 (Barcode: 602498773802) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
Legendary Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory, is definitely still in top form. This is the third album with his all Polish quartet, which includes brilliantly talented young Polish Jazz musicians: pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Although separated from his quartet members by decades (chronologically), Stanko is in perfect harmony with them, mentally, keeping his youthfulness, energy and creativity. Compared to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, who played progressively less and less during his late period, Stanko is still the main soloist in his groups, with his unique tone and expressionism untouched by age. His music remains majestic, mystical and deeply penetrating, as always, and this album is again a superb addition to his magnificent legacy. Absolutely brilliant stuff and a must to any serious Jazz aficionado!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN / HOWARD MOODY ~ RAIN ON THE WINDOW
ECM 1986 (Barcode: 602517155404) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2008
This is another wonderful and intimate project by the British saxophone Colossus John SurmanFind albums by this artist, this time in cooperation with organist Howard MoodyFind albums by this artist, whom Surman met while recording and performing his "Proverbs And SongsFind albums with this title" project. A decade after their initial meeting, Surman and Moody recorded this wonderful music at an Oslo church, playing mostly Surman´s original compositions, a few co-composed pieces and some arrangements of traditional music. The whole affair has a tranquil, serene feeling about it, which is rarely achieved today and the music is truly beautiful from start to finish. Cross-genre and impossible to pinpoint stylistically it´s simply great music. Sensitive people will love this!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
On first play I sense another Surman favourite developing!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE CARNEGIE HALL CONCERT
ECM 1989/90 (Barcode: 602498562246) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2006
Thirty years after he recorded the legendary album "The Köln ConcertFind albums with this title", US pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist is again alone at the piano, playing for an enthusiastic crowd at the legendary NY Carnegie Hall. Including almost two hours of music, which starts with 10 improvised pieces, followed by 5 interpretations of his better known compositions, this album presents a matured, but definitely not burned out Genius, who can still move mountains with his music. Since all music connoisseurs are by now obviously familiar with Jarrett´s solo piano recordings, there is little need to say much more here, except for stating that he lost nothing of his imaginative powers and is still able to move the listener deeply. I´m sure that Jarrett´s followers wouldn´t miss adding this one to their collection. Spectacular stuff!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL MOTIAN ~ TIME AND TIME AGAIN
ECM 1992 (Barcode: 602517011373) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is a brilliant album by the trio led by drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist with guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist. Recently deceased Motian was one of the most prominent American Jazz musicians, always pushing the boundaries of the music and looking for new aesthetic challenges. His numerous recordings from 1950s onwards are an endless source of excellent Jazz music, and this one is no exception. A perfect marriage between the Free Form and melody, which Motian was always balancing, comes here to its perfect fruition, executed by three Master musicians in their absolute prime. Of the ten compositions on this album Motian composed seven, Lovano one and the remaining two are standards. Listening to this album is like watching abstract paintings in a Museum of Modern Art; depending on your mood and state of mind you´ll hear different things each time, but always at the end you´ll be left wishing for more. Brilliant stuff, which should not be missed by any serious Jazz lover!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANAT FORT ~ A LONG STORY
ECM 1994 (Barcode: 602517014169) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2007
This is the first album on the prestigious ECM label by Israeli pianist / composer Anat FortFind albums by this artist and her second release to date. Fort is the first Israeli musician to release an album on ECM. The album was recorded in NY with a formidable quartet, which includes American Jazz players: clarinetist Perry RobinsonFind albums by this artist, bassist Ed SchullerFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, presenting a set of original compositions / improvisations by Anat, who manages to create her own musical universe, unique and distinct from any other music made on this planet, quite an accomplishment for any musician today. Somewhere between modern Jazz, contemporary Classical music, late 19th Century Romanticism and Eric Satie´s Minimalism, the music of Anat Fort is like an impressionist painting, full of melancholy and lyricism and yet sparkling with color and emotion. Her music is always receptive to the listener´s mood, enabling him to discover a different facet every time he listens attentively. It sounds great in early mornings and late at night, being invigorating and soothing at the same time. Of course there is also Anat, the player, gently caressing the keyboard and masterfully applying pressure, when necessary. And yet the album is not an easy listening experience, especially at the first attempt. As all good Art, it requires attentive and repetitive listening, slowly breaking the barrier of assimilating with the listener´s perception. It sneaks on you slowly, doing deeper and deeper ever time, until you are completely hooked, left helpless and fully exposed to its beauty. What bliss! In retrospect I prefer her next album "And IfFind albums with this title", which was recorded with her regular trio. Uninhibited by the presence of strong personalities she is able to express herself more fully on that album, which is all for the best. But personal preferences aside, this is still a formidable album and I can´t imagine any serious music lover not falling in love with this album eventually, even if it takes some effort. Therefore I urge everybody to give it a try, as you surely won´t regret it in the long run. Music of this quality is too rare to be left unnoticed!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Thanks for the Introduction, Adam! I loved this at first play, and it has been playing on and off for the last 24 hours, getting better and better (apart from the one short ocarina section). Quite different from my other favourite piano quartets and trios on ECM, but it still has that special ECM clarity and delicacy of sound. Paul Motian is very restrained, almost as if in awe (which is not an emotion I normally associate with him), and of course he gets it just right. I have been waiting for an opportunity to hear Ed Schuller and he was worth the wait. When Adam recommended Anat I chose the this album because of Paul and Ed but now I´m hooked - Adam says "And If" is even better so I´m off to join the waiting list.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MISHA ALPERIN ~ HER FIRST DANCE
ECM 1995 (Barcode: 602517167421) ~ RUSSIA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2008
This is the 6th album on ECMFind albums on this label by ex-Soviet (now living in Norway) brilliant pianist / composer Misha AlperinFind albums by this artist, which finds him in an intimate setting with two other musicians: German cellist Anja LechnerFind albums by this artist and his life-long friend and musical partner Arkady ShilkloperFind albums by this artist, who plays French horn and flugelhorn. The music, composed entirely by Alperin except for one Shilkloper composition, was recorded for the Swiss radio. Alperin´s music is contemplative and deeply moving, complex but also melodic, reminiscent of some contemporary Classical music but with a distinct Jazz connection. It is devilishly difficult to perform and the musicians present here are obviously all virtuosi. I can´t imagine any serious music connoisseur not falling in love with this music immediately and if you´re not familiar with it, now is the time!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ UNIVERSAL SYNCOPATIONS II
ECM 2013 (Barcode: 602517183575) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2004 - 2005 Released: 2007
This album, subtitled "Music for ensemble, orchestra and choir", is the second project by Czech virtuoso bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist recorded at the Universal Syncopation Studios in Italy, hence the title. However, the music is quite different from what the previous album offers, being much more contemporary Classical inclined, as well as using certain World Music elements, all pre-composed and arranged. The cast consists of nine musicians playing in defferent settings, with saxophonists Bob MintzerFind albums by this artist, Gary CampbellFind albums by this artist and Bob MalachFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist, bandoneón player Daniele Di BonaventuraFind albums by this artist, singer Vesna Vasko-CaceresFind albums by this artist, drummers Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist and Adam NussbaumFind albums by this artist and Vitous on bass. Serious music lovers will find this very interesting for sure, and I recommend some intense listening here, but all well rewarded. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANU KATCHÉ ~ PLAYGROUND
ECM 2016 (Barcode: 602517373211) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007
2nd recording on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by French / African (born in Ivory Coast) drummer / composer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist, who established his international career in the 1980s when he played with Peter GabrielFind albums by this artist, StingFind albums by this artist and many others Rock stars. However, his true vocation is Jazz, as this spectacular album shows. Accompanied by a dreamy team of young musicians: Norwegian trumpeter Mathias EickFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Trygve SeimFind albums by this artist and Polish pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist; Katché presents ten original compositions, all written by him. The music is brilliant from start to finish, superbly performed by all the participants with Katché´s drumming, as unusual as it is for Jazz, adding a new dimension. African rhythms and pulsations play a major role in Katché´s drumming, but they are not aggressive and overly dominating, which is all for the best. Altogether this is a superb piece of music, full of heavenly moments and surprises. An absolute must!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
My comments on MK´s Neighbourhood apply equally here: Wonderful playing, and Mr Eick sounds sufficiently like Mr Stanko in subdued mood that I had to double check the line-up; but the writing is not quite good enough to justify to the musical skills on hand in the studio.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TORD GUSTAVSEN ~ BEING THERE
ECM 2017 (Barcode: 602517235175) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is the third album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the Norwegian pianist / composer Tord GustavsenFind albums by this artist and the last recording with his trio with bassist Harald JohnsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jarle VespestadFind albums by this artist, which recorded also the two albums preceding this one. The album includes thirteen relatively short compositions, all by Gustavsen, which could be perceived as a continuous suite.
The music, which represents the Nordic Jazz idiom perfectly, is deeply lyrical, melancholic and laid-back, often quite introvert and somewhat dark, but always beautiful and delightful. The decision to include many different melodic themes enhances the overall effect of this album, as such somber music can easily become overbearing and remote itself from the listener. The trio performs perfectly, as always, with elegance, flair and dedication.
Listeners familiar with the earlier albums by this trio will surely enjoy this one as well, as it continues the same musical direction and sustains the same excellent level of composition and execution. Jazz piano trio connoisseurs will absolutely love this stuff of course. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WASILEWSKI TRIO ~ JANUARY
ECM 2019 (Barcode: 602517373457) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
This is the debut album on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by the great Polish Jazz trio, which used to be called Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, led by pianist / composer Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist with bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. If these names seem somewhat familiar to you, no wander, as they were also the members of the superb Polish quartet led by the legendary trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, which recorded three albums for ECM. However, the ECM recordings are far from being the trio´s recording debut, as they have been active on the local scene in Poland a whole decade earlier and recorded several brilliant albums already.
Always in top form, sensitive and technically perfect, these musicians are pillars of the new generation of Polish Jazz and their music is a true inspiration. The ten pieces presented on this album include classic Jazz compositions by musicians like Carla BleyFind albums by this artist and Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist, but most of the material was composed by the pianist, who is undoubtedly a great composer as well.
This is one of the best piano trios in the world and everything they touch turns to instant musical gold. This album is no different and every Jazz fan on this planet should enjoy it greatly. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Oddly, they have changed their name to Marcin Wasilewski Trio but they are building on the two excellent albums as Simple Acoustic Trio; this one arrived today and is stuck in the CD player on "repeat." I look forward to sampling their new album from ECM as soon as Adam brings it to Israel!
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA / STEFANO BOLLANI ~ THE THIRD MAN
ECM 2020 (Barcode: 602517373228) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007
This is a wonderful duo album by the two Italian Jazz Masters, trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Stefano BollaniFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve tracks, two of which are alternate versions, which means there are ten compositions, five composed by Rava, one by Bollani, one co-composed by them, one by Brazilian composer Antonio Carlos JobimFind albums by this artist and two by other composers. The music is superbly recorded and despite the sonic “incompatibility” between the two acoustic instruments, the result is absolutely stunning.
Separated by more than a generation (Rava born 1939, Bollani 1972) these two musicians share the Italian lyricism and melodicism, which underlays all Italian music, Jazz included. Bollani considers Rava as his Mentor, and rightly so, as Rava’s illustrious career paved the way for the international recognition of Italian Jazz. His vast recorded legacy, which goes back as far as the late 1960s and includes dozens of albums as a leader and sideman; is one of the most impressive on the European scene. Bollani started his career playing with Rava in the mid-1990s and they recorded many albums together. In many respects this album is a retrospective and perhaps somewhat sentimental “summary” of sorts of the common path during the first decade of their work together. I have no idea what the title means, but the cover hints the famous film noir thriller Masterpiece “The Third Man”, which of course is always worth revisiting.
Although most of the music is quite melancholic and melodic, some of the tracks offer much more free-spirited improvisations, which manage to offer a melodic framework, but are less immediately accessible than the rest of the material. The entire album is a brilliant example of the “Art of the Duo” concept, which is brought to perfection by these two virtuosi, emphasizing their telepathic interplay and yeas of common experience.
Overall, this is a truly exquisite piece of music, which should be enjoyed by all true Jazz lovers, perhaps requiring a bit of effort, attention and patience, all of which will by fully rewarded. Personally, this is one of my favorite albums by these two great musicians, together or separately, and has filled my heart with comfort on many gloomy days.
| | Updated: 05/08/2024Posted: 05/08/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ MY FOOLISH HEART – LIVE AT MONTREUX
ECM 2021/22 (Barcode: 602517373266) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2007
No other piano trio on this planet plays the standards the way the pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist do – divinely, perfectly, differently… In the liner notes accompanying this release Jarrett writes as follows: "I want to thank Gary and Jack for sharing the struggle for artistic survival in a word of fakery, thoughtlessness, mimicry, diffidence, apathy, unconsciousness, laziness, empty virtuosity, ignorance and self-deceit." I must say that these words match exactly what I think and feel since many years and time only makes them more relevant. Therefore music of such beauty and artistic value must be cherished, even if by just a few. This album is the second document of the trio´s European tour of 2001, following "The Out-Of-TownersFind albums with this title". Of all the live "Standards" recordings, this one surpasses them all (if such thing is at all possible) and is an absolute model and an essential piece of music history!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ DISTANCES
ECM 2028 (Barcode: 602517549234) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, the German clarinetist (bass) and saxophonist (soprano) Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist and Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources: some of it is composed by Gesing or Venier, some is traditional and a couple of standards are also present. Norma wrote the lyrics to all of these songs, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I bought the later album first (Stories Yet to Tell), fell in love at first listen, and immediately ordered this one; I could not say which is better: buy both! (The John Surman influence seems to be very strong, as on SYTT.)
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ SETTING STANDARDS
ECM 2030/32 (Barcode: 602517373440) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2008
This wonderful Box Set contains the complete recordings by the Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist during the January 1983 sessions in NY, which were released on three separate albums on the ECMFind albums on this label label: "Standards, Vol.1Find albums with this title" (ECM 1255), "Standards Vol.2Find albums with this title" (ECM 1289) and "ChangesFind albums with this title" (ECM 1276). Jarrett´s treatment of the standards is of course completely unique and unparalleled by any other interpretation available on record. His strong personality and vision transforms these melodies into a new plane, which is a mixture of the Jazz tradition and Jarrett´s only one of its kind universe. The third album, which includes Jarrett´s original compositions, is closer to the "usual" music performed by the trio, but the atmosphere prevailing at these sessions is firmly present within, which integrates this music with the two standards albums into a coherent musical entity. The performances by Peacock and DeJohnette are also stellar and complement the leader´s vision perfectly, setting a new standard as far as playing standards is concerned. In retrospect this is some of the most impressive Jazz ever recorded and an everlasting musical adventure. A must to any serious listener and an essential piece of Jazz history!
Side Note: These three albums were released on CD but are not available individually any more, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON CHERRY / NANA VASCONCELOS / COLLIN WALCOTT ~ THE CODONA TRILOGY
ECM 2033/35 (Barcode: 602517674202) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 - 1982 Released: 2008
This wonderful Box Set contains the three albums by the legendary trio comprising of trumpeter / composer Don CherryFind albums by this artist, Brazilian percussionist / composer Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist and multi-instrumentalist / composer Collin WalcottFind albums by this artist recorded in late 1970s and early 1980s and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "CodonaFind albums with this title" (ECM 1132) recorded in 1978, "Codona 2Find albums with this title" (ECM 1177) recorded in 1980 and "Codona 3Find albums with this title" (ECM 1243) recorded 1982.
These albums are magnificent examples of early Jazz-World Fusion, which precede what has become a trend on the contemporary music scene by decades. All three musicians are absolute virtuosi and the fact that they come from such diverse musical backgrounds and yet are able to create music together with such harmony and mutual understanding, is truly amazing. In the process of recording these albums all three musicians play several instruments each. The listener can hear Cherry play the flute for example, which is quite unusual and a plethora of various ethnic instruments like sitar, tabla, talking drum and many others are used throughout.
This music lost absolutely nothing of its original charm and fascination and sounds every bit as enchanting as it did at the time of the recording. Walcott´s tragic death in 1984 unfortunately put an end to this unique trio, but their legacy stays with us forever. It is still one of the most profound and best examples of what Jazz-World Fusion is all about
Side Note: These albums are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | GARY BURTON / CHICK COREA ~ CRYSTAL SILENCE (THE ECM RECORDINGS 1972-79)
ECM 2036/39 (Barcode: 602517680579) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1979 Released: 2009
This wonderful Box Set contains the three albums by the legendary duo of US vibraphonist / composer Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist recorded in the 1970s and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "Crystal SilenceFind albums with this title" (ECM 1024) recorded in 1972, "DuetFind albums with this title" (ECM 1140) recorded in 1978 and the double live album "In ConcertFind albums with this title" (ECM 1182/83) recorded in 1979. The duo´s recordings revolutionized the approach to the format in Jazz and produced some of the finest music ever recorded, emphasizing the art of conversation and listening to each other, which is put before individual virtuosity. This edition presents the full live concert on CD for the first time. This is brilliant music from start to finish and a must to any serious listener!
Side Note: These three albums were not reissued or are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | JON BALKE / AMINA ALAOUI ~ SIWAN
ECM 2042 (Barcode: 602517801516) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2007 - 2008 Released: 2009
Norwegian keyboardist / composer Jon BalkeFind albums by this artist and Moroccan vocalist Amina AlaouiFind albums by this artist come together to produce a stunning work of rare beauty, which combines East and West (or in this case South and North), proving the obvious again: regardless of what the source of the music, it bridges human languages and cultures better than any other medium. The music presents a wide range of European styles, like the Baroque music and Middle Eastern scales and sounds, originating in Andalusia, the Muslim Iberia. The lyrics used in the songs also originate in the medieval Spain, and are in Arabic and ancient Spanish dialect. All these elements come together perfectly, creating music, which is beyond time or place, just flowing beautifully. The various instruments: trumpet (played by Jon HassellFind albums by this artist), keyboards, chamber orchestra, oriental violin, percussion and zarb all cooperate sonically to produce a sound like no other, which harmonizes elements that were often thought as incompatible and unsuited together. This music must simply be heard to be believed, and I hope many people will feel adventurous enough to reach out and expose themselves to it. Superb stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ RABO DE NUBE
ECM 2053 (Barcode: 602517548114) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
This is a live recording by American saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and his quartet which includes pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist. They perform together seven compositions, six of which are Lloyd´s originals and the title track was composed by the great Cuban musician / composer Silvio RodriguezFind albums by this artist.
Of all the great Jazz heroes of my youth, Lloyd seems to be the very last Mohican still alive and kicking, as if he was living in a time capsule; time has been very kind to him and his vitality and amazing talent flourish completely untouched and unblemished. A while ago I listened to all the mid to late 1960s recordings by the Charles Lloyd legendary quartet with pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassists Ron McClureFind albums by this artist / Cecil McBeeFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and that music sounds even better today than it sounded then, and in parallel Lloyd is able to play the way he does now, four decades later. This is simply amazing!
Of course the fact that Lloyd manages to surround himself with some of the absolutely best young and upcoming musicians (as he always did) is part of the secret formula. Moran is a major contender to the exclusive top Jazz pianists "club" and the rhythm section is also inspired and technically very proficient. Most importantly however is the fact that they show an immense respect for the Master, supporting his at all times sympathetically and unpretentiously, waiting for their solo spots patiently.
Staying contemporary for five decades is definitely a super rare ability, so thank God for Charles Lloyd and his music.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ YESTERDAYS
ECM 2060 (Barcode: 602517744479) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2009
This live recording by the best Jazz piano trio in the world: pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, is a companion release to the album "Always Let Me Go – Live In TokyoFind albums with this title", as it was recorded at the same series of concerts. This album, however, presents the trio playing standards, as opposed to the original material collected on the a.m. album. As all the other "Standards" albums released by this trio, this one is also perfect in every way and obviously different again from everything else already available. There is no point of going into how great this music is – the people who know this already will not hesitate for a moment and the ones who don´t want to know, don´t matter AFAIAC. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ NEW YORK DAYS
ECM 2064 (Barcode: 602517727151) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist has been one of the leaders of European Jazz since several decades and his impressive and extensive recorded legacy is a source of inspiration and musical excellence. This album, recorded in NY, presents a set of new original compositions by Rava and was recorded with brilliant Italian pianist Stefano BollaniFind albums by this artist and American musicians: saxophonist Mark TurnerFind albums by this artist, bassist Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. Full of lyricism and typical European melodic frivolity, the album does not break any new ground, but is, as always in the case of Rava, a deeply aesthetic and uplifting listening experience. The music is somewhat minimalist and relaxed, but shouldn´t be mistaken as lifeless; it simply requires more attentive listening and a lot of experience to find and enjoy the tricks of the trade. A beautiful album, wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ REMEMBERING WEATHER REPORT
ECM 2073 (Barcode: 602517881372) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 - 2007 Released: 2009
Czech bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist was a founding member of the seminal group Weather ReportFind albums by this artist and played on their first 3 studio albums and the live album recorded in Japan. The idea of Weather Report was to search for a new direction in the rapidly changing Jazz scene at the time, which was initiated by the revolutionary artistry of Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. However, as we know in retrospect, Weather Report took a different turn than what Vitous had in mind when he co-founded the group, turning gradually more and more into the leading Fusion and Funk group of the 1970s / 1980s, rather than exploring the realms of free improvisation and spontaneity. Thirty years later Vitous takes a somewhat nostalgic trip back to his Weather Report days, proposing a "what if…" scenario, i.e. presenting music, which might have been played by the band if he stayed on. Played by his quartet with veteran Swiss trumpeter Franco AmbrosettiFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Gary CampbellFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist, Vitous also adds the veteran French Master – Michel PortalFind albums by this artist, who plays bass clarinet. Together they perform some superb music, mostly written by Vitous except for one piece by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist, which is pretty open and free but retains enough rhythmic and melodic backbone to be enjoyable even to less ear-trained listeners. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEFANO BOLLANI ~ STONE IN THE WATER
ECM 2080 (Barcode: 602517941618) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
This is an album by Italian Jazz pianist / composer Stefano BollaniFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with Danish rhythm section comprising of bassist Jesper BodilsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Morten LundFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, four of which are original compositions by Bollani and two by Bodilsen, two are Brazilian standards and one is an arrangement of a Classical piece.
Bollani is a superb pianist and a great Romantic, and his approach to improvisation combines ideally the American tradition of Bill Evans and modern European Jazz, with some Classical Music influences. Combined with the excellent rhythm section, the music is an instant classic of Jazz piano trio music.
Both the original compositions and the standards are perfect vehicles for the trio to showcase their perfect symbiotic collaboration, which focuses on Bollani’s virtuosity but emphasizes the importance of the trio format at the same time. The deeply melodic side of Bollani is omnipresent and his gentle touches on the keyboard are simply irresistible.
Overall, this is a remarkable Jazz piano trio album, an instant classic, which can be enjoyed by all Jazz lovers, regardless of their stylistic preferences, as this is truly the Jazz essence at its best. Although Bollani’s discography is pretty extensive, this is one of my personal favorites of his recordings. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 28/05/2023Posted: 28/05/2023 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | EGBERTO GISMONTI ~ SAUDACOES
ECM 2082/83 (Barcode: 602517972803) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2006 - 2007 Released: 2009
This is a wonderful album by Brazilian multi-instrumentalist / guitarist / composer Egberto GismontiFind albums by this artist, one of the most important pioneers of Jazz-World Fusion and contemporary Classical artist. This 2CD release presents two different sides of his work: the first is a seven-piece suite for orchestra, performed by the all-woman Cuban chamber orchestra Camerata RomeuFind albums by this artist, led and conducted by Zenaida RomeuFind albums by this artist; the second is a series of acoustic guitar duets with his son Alexandre GismontiFind albums by this artist. Although very different form each other, both these discs are perfect examples of the infinite riches of music available out there, which only wait to be discovered. The chamber suite incorporates some Brazilian music elements, but is kept very much in the spirit of European Romantic tradition, with moody, melancholic melody lines gently flowing in and out of focus. The performance is absolutely stunning, both emotionally and technically. The guitar duets are of course much more immediate and energetic, performed with obvious virtuosity and total dedication to the music. Gismonti´s familiar tunes never sounded better. Overall this is an extraordinary musical journey, which serious music connoisseurs should be delighted with from start to finish. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANFRED SCHOOF ~ RESONANCE
ECM 2093/94 (Barcode: 602517804531) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1979 Released: 2009
This album collects music recorded by the quintets led by German trumpeter / composer Manfred SchoofFind albums by this artist, entitled "ScalesFind albums with this title", "Light LinesFind albums with this title" and "HorizonsFind albums with this title", which were originally released on the JAPOFind albums on this label label, a subsidiary of ECMFind albums on this label. The first two are included here in their entirety and the last one is two tracks short, which is a pity, but considering this is the only CD edition of these albums, it´s infinitely better than nothing, especially in view of the quality of the music. Schoof was one of the most important figures on the European modern Jazz scene since the late 1960s and his contribution to the genre is enormous. A brilliant trumpeter and a great composer, he was always in the epicenter of the scene, playing with musicians from many countries as well as leading his own groups. His 1970s quintet, which recorded the three albums included here, was particularly exquisite, playing some of the most intelligent and adventurous, albeit quite melodic and well organized music created at the time. Of course the element of musical freedom is in the centre of the musical creation, as captured on these albums, but it is pre-composed and retains strong melodic continuity. In retrospect these are truly amazing musical achievements, which have not been repeated successfully since. The musicians present here include: bass clarinetist Michel PilzFind albums by this artist, Dutch keyboardist Jasper van`t HofFind albums by this artist (on the first two albums) and German keyboardist Rainer BruninghausFind albums by this artist (on the last one), bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. People familiar with European Jazz scene will of course recognize these names instantly. This is an absolute must to connoisseurs of European Jazz at its absolute best. Stupendous stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Love that bass clarinet (on YouTube - CDs not yet received)
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOUIS SCLAVIS ~ LOST ON THE WAY
ECM 2098 (Barcode: 602517984974) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
French clarinetist / saxophonist / composer Louis SclavisFind albums by this artist has been one of the pillars of the modern French / European Jazz scene since many years and his skills as a virtuoso performer are well documented on numerous recordings. Since he started to record on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label, his work received a wider and much deserved exposure, as he is a voice that shouldn´t be ignored under any circumstances. The album was recorded with his all-French quintet, which includes saxophonist Matthieu MetzgerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Maxime DelpierreFind albums by this artist, bassist Olivier LeteFind albums by this artist and drummer Francois MervilleFind albums by this artist. Sclavis composed almost all the music (with some contributions from the bassists), which consists of twelve concise but excellently developed pieces. The sound is very modern, with electric guitar and bass sounding almost (but not quite) as if playing Fusion, but the overall sound is definitely closer to Jazz or perhaps RIO. In any case it is very innovative and interesting, from start to finish. The double clarinet / saxophone leads are simply great and the Rocky rhythms push the music into quite unexpected territory. Many music connoisseurs will definitely find this album as a great discovery, if only they will give it a chance and listen. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEVE KUHN ~ MOSTLY COLTRANE
ECM 2099 (Barcode: 602527011141) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
Excellent album by US pianist / composer Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist with his trio comprising of bassist David FinckFind albums by this artist and drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist and guest saxophonist Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist. Kuhn, who is one of the most impressive American pianists / composers on the Jazz scene since the 1960s, started to record for the ECMFind albums on this label label in 1974 and his numerous albums on the label are all truly outstanding. On this album Kuhn re-examines the John ColtraneFind albums by this artist legacy as a composer, performing nine of his compositions. The other four selections include two compositions by Kuhn and two standards, which Coltrane performed often during the early stage of his career. Although obviously a tribute to the greatest Genius of Jazz, the album can be also viewed as an attempt to personalize Coltrane´s legacy and influence, adapting it to contemporary approach, half a Century after Coltrane composed and performed this music. Regardless of how one wants to analyze this music, it works perfectly and produces an aesthetic experience of the highest degree. Superb stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
This wonderful disc manages to bring a rich smoothness to the pieces without falling into the trap of "smooth jazz" (ie, not remotely MoR). Joey Baron adds brilliant highlights and I have made a mental not to hear more of Finck´s bass.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN GARBAREK ~ DRESDEN – IN CONCERT
ECM 2100/01 (Barcode: 602527095721) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2009
This a brilliant live recording by the Norwegian saxophonist / composer Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist and his group, which comprises of radiant German keyboardist Rainer BruninghausFind albums by this artist, Brazilian bassist Yuri DanielFind albums by this artist and French drummer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist. The material includes a wide range of Garbarek´s compositions taken from his many albums over the years and a few extended solo pieces by the other band members, which are credited to them. The performances are absolutely stellar from start to finish, which is not surprising considering the caliber of the participants. Overall the music is melodic and the arrangements are kept simple, to keep the music flowing smoothly, which makes this album a perfect listening experience to a very wide audience way beyond strict Jazz circles. Great fun!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KETIL BJORNSTAD / SVANTE HENRYSON ~ NIGHT SONG
ECM 2108 (Barcode: 602527095790) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2011
Following the two piano / cello albums recorded for the ECMFind albums on this label label by Norwegian pianist / composer Ketil BjornstadFind albums by this artist with US cellist David DarlingFind albums by this artist, he returns for the third time in the same instrumental setting, now with Swedish cellist Svante HenrysonFind albums by this artist. The music, similar in body and spirit to the previous duets, is on the other hand surprisingly different. Mostly composed by Bjornstad (twelve of the sixteen tracks with the remaining four by Henryson) it is atmospheric and deeply emotional, with strong ties to European Classical tradition, although Jazzy at all times. The telepathic cooperation between the two Masters is astounding and the overall atmosphere of the album is magical and mesmerizing. This is serious music, not to be listened to casually, and obviously requiring some effort, but the experience is deeply rewarding. Recommended to more experienced listeners, who also like contemporary Classical and other more complex musical forms.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANAT FORT ~ AND IF
ECM 2109 (Barcode: 602527332161) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
This is the second album on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by Israeli pianist / composer Anat FortFind albums by this artist and her third release to date. Fort is the first Israeli musician to release an album on ECM. Recorded with her regular trio with bassist Gary WangFind albums by this artist and drummer Roland SchneiderFind albums by this artist, the album presents a set of new original compositions / improvisations by Anat, who manages to create her own musical universe, unique and distinct from any other music made on this planet, quite an accomplishment for any musician today. Somewhere between modern Jazz, contemporary Classical music, late 19th Century Romanticism and Eric SatieFind albums by this artist´s Minimalism, the music of Anat Fort is like an impressionist painting, full of melancholy and lyricism and yet sparkling with color and emotion. Her music is always receptive to the listener´s mood, enabling him to discover a different facet every time he listens attentively. It sounds great in early mornings and late at night, being invigorating and soothing at the same time. Of course there is also Anat, the player, gently caressing the keyboard and masterfully applying pressure, when necessary. The rhythm section accompanies her with a kind of humility, which is inspired by respect and understanding, always there at her side, but never pushing her around. Together they are a harmonic unit, an ideal piano trio, which epitomizes Jazz more that any other combination of players known to men. And yet the album is not an easy listening experience, especially at the first attempt. As all good Art, it requires attentive and repetitive listening, slowly breaking the barrier of assimilating with the listener´s perception. It sneaks on you slowly, going deeper and deeper every time, until you are completely hooked, left helpless and fully exposed to its beauty. What bliss! In retrospect I prefer this album to its predecessor "A Long StoryFind albums with this title", which was recorded with a cast of most reputable musicians, but lacks the true personal touch of Anat´s musical true-self. Uninhibited by the presence of strong personalities she is able to express herself more fully on this album, which is all for the best. I can´t imagine any serious music lover not falling in love with this album eventually, even if it takes some effort. Therefore I urge everybody to give it a try, as you surely won´t regret it in the long run. Music of this quality is too rare to be left unnoticed!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ DARK EYES
ECM 2115 (Barcode: 602527112664) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Following the last three brilliant recordings with his all-Polish quartet in the early to mid 2000s and then three years of silence, Stanko returns with this recording of a completely new group comprising of young Scandinavian musicians: Finnish pianist Alexi TuomarilaFind albums by this artist, Danish guitarist Jakob BroFind albums by this artist, Danish bassist Anders ChristensenFind albums by this artist and Finnish drummer Olavi LouhivuoriFind albums by this artist. Obviously rejuvenated by the presence of these young and talented players, Stanko presents his new energetic music as well as paying tribute to his Mentor Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist by including two of his compositions into the set. There is no need to say much more here, as Stanko is already well beyond criticism with his magic touch and incredible talent. He shows no signs of age and anything produced by him is pure gold. Although the album does not break any new ground musically, one can hardly hold this against Stanko, who just keeps perfecting what he does best, and as a result allows us to drink from his seemingly perpetually full cup. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TERJE RYPDAL ~ ODYSSEY – IN STUDIO & IN CONCERT
ECM 2136/38 (Barcode: 602527945668) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2012
This magnificent Box Set includes, for the first time, the complete content of the seminal album "OdysseyFind albums with this title" recorded by Norwegian guitarist / composer Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist and his quintet and released originally as a double LP (ECM 1067/68). In addition to Rypdal the quintet also included trombonist Torbjorn SundeFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brynjulf BlixFind albums by this artist, electric bassist Sveinung HovensjoFind albums by this artist and drummer Svein ChristiansenFind albums by this artist. This Box Set also includes a third CD entitled "Unfinished Highballs", with the previously unreleased live recordings by the same group (less the trombonist) accompanied by the Swedish Radio Jazz GroupFind albums by this artist, which incorporated some of the best Swedish Jazz players at the time. "Odyssey" comprises of eight pieces, all composed by Rypdal, the longest of those being over 23 minutes long. "Unfinished Highballs" presents seven additional compositions by Rypdal, which do not appear on "Odyssey".
The music of "Odyssey", strongly influenced by the great modern Classical composer György LigetiFind albums by this artist, who composed some of the music included in the soundtrack of the celebrated "2001: A Space Odyssey" movie (hence the connection), combines also many influences from other genres, like Jazz (Miles DavisFind albums by this artist) and Rock (Jimmy HendrixFind albums by this artist). Although it certainly defies known genres, and perhaps defines a genre of its own, in retrospect it is certainly one of the earliest major efforts to create Ambient music, which moves somewhere between contemporary Classical on one hand and Jazz-Rock on another. It is certainly one of the rare cases where the word "unique" in truly and completely justified.
In retrospect this music is way ahead of its time, as perhaps only now some music listeners are mature enough and experienced enough (myself included) to appreciate the prophetic nature of this music. Ambient music "happened" only decades later and then most of it was nowhere near the magnificence of this music included herein. Rypdal´s screaming guitar backed by organ and trombone and propelled by the electric rhythm section are a universe of sound, which remains unchallenged.
The famous sound of Rypdal´s guitar is best defined by this album, as it can be heard in many different settings, from painting atmospheric soundscapes to soloing furiously on top of a Rocky rhythmic pattern. The legendary "Rolling Stone" piece, which closes the album (and was omitted from the first single CD reissue), is perhaps one of the most remarkable Jazz-Rock anthems ever recorded.
The release of "Unfinished Highballs" is a true cherry topping, as it presents a completely new perspective of Rypdal´s music. Although Rypdal was no stranger to the Big Band setting (see for example his recordings with George RussellFind albums by this artist) this time we can hear his music being performed by a Big Band, which is quite another story. The power of a Big Band takes the music to a new territory, which is more Jazzy that the music of "Odyssey", but retains the Rypdal spirit. Rypdal will return to the Big Band only 33 years later, with the recording of "Crime Scene".
This is an absolute must for any faithful follower of European Jazz and Jazz-Rock and Jazz-Classical Fusions. This is a milestone recording, which remains as fresh as on the day it was recorded, with most of it still quite futuristic. An absolute gem!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHICK COREA ~ SOLO PIANO
ECM 2140/42 (Barcode: 602527196527) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 - 1983 Released: 2010
This wonderful Box Set contains the solo piano recordings by US pianist / composer Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "Piano Improvisations Vol.1Find albums with this title" (ECM 1014), "Piano Improvisations Vol.2Find albums with this title" (ECM 1020), both recorded in 1971, and "Children`s SongsFind albums with this title" (ECM 1267) recorded in 1983. Along with Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist´s "Facing YouFind albums with this title", also recorded in 1971, Corea´s piano improvisations were bold, intimate and innovative statements by these two musicians, which of course emphasizes the special character and artistic approach, which ECM initiated early on and was about to support in years that followed. The music is of course delightful and highly inspiring, bordering on Jazz and contemporary Classical music. Corea is a wonderful player and his immense talent, both as performer and composer, is especially evident on these recordings. Wholeheartedly recommended!
Side Note: The first two CDs of this Box Set were not reissued on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN GARBAREK ~ DANSERE
ECM 2146/48 (Barcode: 602527551784) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 - 1975 Released: 2012
This wonderful Box Set contains three early albums by the legendary Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, the first of which was recorded by a quintet with guitarist Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist, pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Arild AndersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist and the other two were recorded by a quartet with Stenson, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Christensen, recorded in early 1970s and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are "SartFind albums with this title" (ECM 1015) recorded in 1971, "Witchi-Tai-ToFind albums with this title" (ECM 1041) recorded in 1973 and "DansereFind albums with this title" (ECM 1075) recorded 1975.
These albums are magnificent examples of early modern Scandinavian Jazz, which after years of copying American Jazz finally emerged as a new identity, leaving the tradition where it respectfully belongs. These six young (at that time) musicians emerged in time as some of the most creative and influential Jazz figures, producing groundbreaking music and expanding the realms of Jazz way beyond their original scope. They also defined the Scandinavian Sound, which to this day is a strong characteristic many recordings by Scandinavian musicians and some other trying to imitate them.
This music lost absolutely nothing of its original charm and fascination and sounds every bit as enchanting as it did at the time of the recording. Listening to it again after quite a few years makes a very strong impression and brings on waves of nostalgia to the times when music was constantly breaking new ground and was full of wonderful surprises. This is definitely worth re-visiting and re-discovering! Brilliant stuff!
Side Note: These albums are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | DINO SALUZZI ~ EL ENCUENTRO
ECM 2155 (Barcode: 028947638346) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
This wonderful album presents the orchestral works by Argentinean bandeneon virtuoso / composer Dino SaluzziFind albums by this artist. Composed for soloists and a string orchestra, the four compositions presented here introduce Saluzzi as a contemporary Classical composer, who mixes his cultural background and tradition with European Classical Music and Jazz in order to create a new amalgam, both as far as sound and stylistics are concerned. The soloists include Saluzzi on his bandeneon, the wonderful German violoncellist Anja LechnerFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Felix SaluzziFind albums by this artist (Dino´s brother). The orchestral parts are performed by the Dutch Metropole OrchestraFind albums by this artist. The music is very passionate and expressive, often complex and elusive, but always enchanting deeply engaging. This is Culture (with a capital C) at its best and most intriguing, groundbreaking and always searching for new forms of expression. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANU KATCHÉ ~ THIRD ROUND
ECM 2156 (Barcode: 602527321318) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
This is the third album for ECMFind albums on this label by French (born in Ivory Coast) drummer / composer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist, recorded with a quartet, which features saxophonist Tore BrunborgFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Jason RebelloFind albums by this artist and bassist Pino PalladinoFind albums by this artist and two additional musicians participating on selected tracks: guitarist Jacob YoungFind albums by this artist and female vocalist / trumpeter Kami LyleFind albums by this artist. The album comprises of eleven original compositions, all by Katché, one of which also includes lyrics, written by Lyle.
It is pretty obvious from the very first instant of this album that it presents a new concept, different from the two preceding albums, being completely "song" / melody oriented and only marginally Jazzy per se. The eleven tracks are all quite short (around four minutes in duration), very melodic and with limited space for improvisation. I´d speculate that this is probably the most "easy listening" album ever recorded for ECM.
But apart from the fact that this is not a Jazz album, all the other aspects of this recording are all positive: the melodies are excellent, the execution perfect and completely professional, as is the usual ECM sound quality. Therefore this album simply should not be judged by the "usual" standards of hard core Jazz and with a little open-mindedness this is a very enjoyable piece of music, which delivers exactly what it aims to do: musical joy and fun!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ STORIES YET TO TELL
ECM 2158 (Barcode: 602527374260) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, the German clarinetist (bass) and saxophonist (soprano) Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist and Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources: some of it is composed by Gesing or Venier, some is traditional and a couple of standards are also present. Norma wrote the lyrics to all of these songs, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I respectfully agree with Adam´s comments, but want to add that the sax is strongly reminiscent of Surman in lyrical mode; and that I immediately ordered the other album by this trio - now spinning sublimely in my CD player for the first time
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KONITZ / MEHLDAU / HADEN / MOTIAN ~ LIVE AT BIRDLAND
ECM 2162 (Barcode: 602527369877) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2011
This is a live recording made at the legendary NY Jazz club Birdland by a quartet comprising of four legendary American Jazz musicians: saxophonist Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist (born 1927), pianist Brad MehldauFind albums by this artist (born 1970), bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist (born 1937) and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist (born 1931) – which of course makes Mehldau about half the age of the other players. The quartet plays six standards, keeping the music at a slow and contemplative mood, as appropriate for the occasion but also quite free and stretched out, way beyond what one might have expected. Obviously none of these Masters needs to prove anything to anybody any more and they obviously enjoy themselves immensely throughout. Mehldau is playing perhaps a bit more forcefully than the others, but not aggressively and Haden appears to be at his full might, playing brilliantly. Considering the sad reality that this might be the last recording by any of these veterans, this is something to be definitely well remembered by. Respect!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I have to say I found this album very difficult, not just on first playing but for many playings; it sounded to me as if the four musicians were playing in different recording studios, and just happened to be recorded onto one disc - stretched out indeed! I was very surprised because I have heard and loved many recordings of the three veterans playing together live. But the CD player in my car broke down and would not let it out, so I heard the album many more times than I would have bothered with otherwise, and suddenly two days ago it all came together as I listened, and now I would not want to take it out if i could! Truly masterful!!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL FORMANEK ~ THE RUB AND THE SPARE CHANGE
ECM 2167 (Barcode: 602527395142) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
This is the debut album for the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by American bassist Michael FormanekFind albums by this artist. It was recorded with a brilliant all-American quartet, which includes saxophonist Tim BerneFind albums by this artist, pianist Craig TabornFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist, all three belonging to the top class of American musicians today. All the music was composed by Formanek and the quartet performs it brilliantly, from start to finish. Both Berne and Taborn have distinctive voices of their own and their contributions are superb throughout. Formanek and Cleaver work together harmoniously and brilliantly as a rhythms section, turning this quartet into a splendid music-making unit, with very few rivals around. The music is strongly influenced by European aesthetics, which is unusual for American Jazz musicians, but common (not surprisingly) to those recording for ECM. This is a very strong album, which should appeal to all Jazz connoisseurs. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ MIRROR
ECM 2176 (Barcode: 602527404998) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
The series of albums recorded for the ECMFind albums on this label label since 1990 by US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, of which this is the 14th, is a wonderful portrait of an Artist, showing his consistent excellence and dedication on one hand and his constant development and search of new forms of artistic / aesthetic expression on the other. His music, deeply rooted on the American Jazz tradition, was always open to new influences over the years, like World Music or Rock, as well as the readiness to work with new generations of musicians, always selecting the very best, sensitive and sympathetic collaborators. This album was recorded by the same quartet, which recorded the previous album, but this is a studio recording and the previous was a live recording. It comprises of pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist. The music includes a mixture of Lloyd originals, his arrangement of traditional songs and a few standards, including two superbly executed Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist compositions. In complete disregard of his age, Lloyd sounds strong and confident, with his beautiful tone intact. The young players with his keep a respectful distance from the Master when supporting him and fully expose their abilities when given solo spots. One simply can´t go wrong with a Charles Lloyd album, and this one is no exception. So let´s savor the moment for as long as his creative stream continues. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | COLIN VALLON ~ RRUGA
ECM 2185 (Barcode: 602527493503) ~ SWITZERLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
3rd album (first on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label) by Swiss pianist / composer Colin VallonFind albums by this artist with his trio: bassist Patrice MoretFind albums by this artist and drummer Samuel RohrerFind albums by this artist. This is a perfect album in every respect – virtuosity of the performers, sublime compositions, exquisite sound (thanks to ECM) and of course a piano trio (mu favorite Jazz format). One truly needs absolutely nothing more that this. The music – 11 relatively short pieces – was composed by all three musicians, each contributing several of his works. Overall, as difficult as it is to be "special" in this difficult format, this album definitely is very special and I enjoyed every minute of it voluptuously. A must!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ RIO
ECM 2198/99 (Barcode: 602527766454) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011
This album presents the music recorded live in Rio de Janeiro during a solo piano concert by the great Magician himself – Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist. Fifteen unnamed pieces stretch over two CDs, which seem to last but a brief moment, when listened to. For those familiar with Jarrett´s gigantic recorded legacy let me just say that this is a more melodic, optimistic, almost smiling Jarrett of them all. Something good must be happening to the great Artist, which he passes on to us, using his magic fingers and his enormous heart. All the rest is irrelevant… simply grab this is enjoy it for what it stands for: the epitome of pure Art, created by an Artist for Art-loving People.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ SOMEWHERE
ECM 2200 (Barcode: 602527663708) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2013
This is a live recording by the celebrated pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist, which is the best piano trio that ever walked upon this earth. Recorded in 2009, this is chronologically the most recent recording by the trio, which epitomizes the Art of the Jazz piano trio since its inception three decades ago. They perform eight pieces, two of which are Jarrett´s originals and six are standards. The two originals are intertwined with two of the standards, which results in the album having only six separate tracks.
The only document we have at our disposal of the trio´s performances preceding this one is the 2002 recording released as "Up For ItFind albums with this title", which sadly looked as perhaps being their final recorded hour, and therefore the release of this album is an extraordinarily joyous occasion, which opens the gates of hope for more material by these astonishing musicians. Sine the vaults of ECMFind albums on this label are kept more secret than those of the Pentagon, there is no certainty either way.
There is really no point in explaining yet again why this is unparalleled music, performed by Master musicians; if anybody reading these lines is not convinced, it might be just too late for them. Listening to this music exemplifies the essence of Jazz, its Artistry and its beauty. Improvisation, the missing link which bridges between ordinary music and extraordinary music, is presented here clearly, explicitly and masterly, straight from the horse´s mouth, for all to follow and enjoy. Anything else is simply superfluous.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD / MARIA FARANTOURI ~ ATHENS CONCERT
ECM 2205/06 (Barcode: 602527678337) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
A meeting of two musical Colossi: legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and no less legendary Greek singer Maria FarantouriFind albums by this artist, known worldwide not only a Greece´s first Lady of song but also as her country´s voice of conscience and political activism. Farantouri´s association with Greek national composer Mikis TheodorakisFind albums by this artist since the 1960s has placed her both in the centre of the country´s cultural life and its political struggle for liberty. Lloyd and Farantouri developed a close personal friendship over many years, which resulted in exposing him to Greek culture, history and of course music. Slowly they collected material they could perform together, which eventually let to this magical evening of music, captured live in the footsteps of the Acropolis. The participants include also the members of the Charles Lloyd quartet: pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist and two Greek musicians: Socratis SinopoulosFind albums by this artist on lyra and Takis FarazisFind albums by this artist on piano. Together these seven Artists create a universe of music so beautiful and aesthetically fulfilling that it leaves the listener completely awestruck and overwhelmed. Of course the marriage of Jazz with other forms of music like Folklore, World Music or Classical is quite common these days, but some of these attempts definitely work better than others. This one works wonderfully and presents not only a perfect amalgam of different musical traditions but also a perfect marriage of music and words, or in more global sense a cultural melting pot of rare magnitude. Thousands of years of human history, from ancient Greece to now, and thousands of miles linking Africa, Europe and America, all come together here, symbolizing the universality of the human culture, which knows no borders, no nations and no disparity. In the world completely obsessed with total decadence and complete lack of any values, cultural and moral, people who are able to make such artistic statement as this one should be cherished and applauded and I humbly join the ones who do just that. A strikingly beautiful piece of music!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CRAIG TABORN ~ AVENGING ANGEL
ECM 2207 (Barcode: 602527636375) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
US pianist / composer Craig TabornFind albums by this artist has been one of the most notable young piano players on the Jazz scene since the mid 1990s, recording with many first class Jazz artists and ensembles. Many of these recordings have been released on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label, but this is his debut album as a leader on that label, and appropriately it is a solo piano recording – an ECM trademark. The album contains 13 pieces, all composed by Taborn, which are beautifully performed by him. The music is restrained and minimalistic, balancing nicely between melody and ambience, which is often dark and gloomy. Taborn has definitely reached a level of maturity and developed a personal and unique voicing, which earn him an honorable place on contemporary Jazz scene. Not an easy listening experience, but ultimately deeply rewarding and wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WASILEWSKI TRIO ~ FAITHFUL
ECM 2208 (Barcode: 602527591056) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
This is the second album released on the ECMFind albums on this label label by the great Polish piano trio, led by pianist / composer Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist with bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. The trio used to be called Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist and released several albums under that name before someone (at ECM?) decided to put the leader´s name up front, which seems hardy fair or appropriate after so many years they played together under that name.
But setting such trivia as marketing tactics and ego trips aside, the music made by these wonderful musicians is as usual outstanding. Of the ten tracks present here, Wasilewski composed five and the others are by such diverse composers as Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist, Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist or the German composer Hanns EislerFind albums by this artist. The music is played with flair and panache, but slightly lacks the adventurous streak I personally always look for. One might have thought that after years of playing with Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, some of his magic would have rubbed off.
Nevertheless both technically and emotionally this is as near perfection as one can expect from a "well behaved" album, and the above comments do not reflect negatively on this beautiful piece of music and the exceptional music-making captured herein. Always melodic, even in the heat of improvisation, with a wonderful support from the bassist and gentle but accurate input from the drummer, this music simply sounds great, especially when so well recorded.
Listeners, who enjoyed the trio´s previous output, will definitely not be disappointed, with a good chance for many new followers discovering them here.
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
I think they get better and better!
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ TRIBE
ECM 2218 (Barcode: 602527669700) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
This album presents an elderly Master surrounded by his disciples, or in other words veteran Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist with his all Italian and very young current quintet, which includes trombonist Gianluca PetrellaFind albums by this artist, pianist Giovanni GuidiFind albums by this artist, bassist Gabriele EvagelistaFind albums by this artist and drummer Fabrizio SferraFind albums by this artist. On four of the twelve tracks the quintet is expanded into a sextet with the addition of guitarist Giacomo AncillottoFind albums by this artist. In spite of the age difference, and perhaps thanks to it, the resulting music is simply fabulous. Rava´s often difficult compositions are treated with utmost respect by his fellow musicians, with each and every one on them adding his very personal touch, and the combined efforts simply work out wonderfully well. Although somewhat melancholic and somehow deliberately slow, the music manages to keep the listener involved it its development and mesmerized. Of course the level of musicianship is excellent throughout, but that by itself is often not enough to make the music worthwhile. It is the leader´s vision and his sense of direction that makes the music become a work of Art and enables the listener to enjoy it even at the most intricate moments. So regardless of what some critics may tell you, this is a remarkable album, artistically fulfilling and aesthetically satisfying, well worth your money and a source of many enjoyable moments of music. Don´t even think twice about it!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ INDICUM
ECM 2233 (Barcode: 602527945750) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
This is a breathtakingly beautiful album by the veteran Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, one of the pillars of Scandinavian and European Jazz, recorded in his favorite classic piano trio format with his long-time collaborator bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and much younger upcoming drummer Jon FaltFind albums by this artist. Together they perform twelve pieces, three of which are credited to all the trio members, two are by Jormin and the rest come from many diverse sources, both from the Jazz idiom and outside, an eclecticism typical of Stenson´s recordings.
In many respects Stenson is an epitome of European Jazz, combining in his refined stylistic approach the elegance and sophistication of the European Culture at its best, which elevates the Jazz tradition to a new level. Reserved, even humble at times, delicate and minimalistic, Stenson spreads his magic with single touches of the keyboard, following the "more is less" aesthetics.
Of course a trio is only as good as the quality of all its members, which in this case is beyond reproach. Jormin is already recognized as one of the great Masters of the acoustic Bass and Falt by now earned quite a reputation as an intelligent, highly sensitive player. Together they create a kind of enchantment, which characterized only very few selected piano trios in Jazz history. Fans and followers of Stenson´s piano trio recordings are by now convinced, that he and his trios belong to the top echelon of artistic achievements and he is a fabulous gatekeeper of the exquisite piano trio legacy.
This music is very calm, reflective and somewhat reserved, and as such requires total attention and dedication in order to be fully appreciated. And yet in spite of its seemingly delicate structure, it cuts deeply into the listener´s emotional fabric, arising very strong reactions, which of course is a part of its magic. Although I love everything Stenson recorded so far, I developed a very special attachment towards this particular recording, as it touches my innermost strings. This is an absolute masterpiece and an essential ingredient of the beautiful Jazz spirit that we all love so much. A must!
| | Updated: 07/02/2016Posted: 07/02/2016 | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TORD GUSTAVSEN ~ THE WELL
ECM 2237 (Barcode: 602527858968) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2012
This is the 5th album on the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by Norwegian pianist / composer Tord GustavsenFind albums by this artist. His first three albums were recorded in a trio format, the fourth by an ensemble (quintet with a new bassist, saxophonist and female vocalist) and this album returns to the classic quartet format with saxophonist Tore BrunborgFind albums by this artist, bassist Mats EilertsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Jarle VespestadFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Gustavsen, is absolutely brilliant in its typical Nordic way; relaxed, romantic, lyrical and beautifully melodic. The quartet performs superbly, with the saxophonist often sounding like Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, and the rhythm session subtly fulfilling the blanks and silences in between. Although some listeners might find the Nordic music "cold", this is a complete nonsense, and careful listening will eventually disclose the passionate nature of this music, beneath the stern exterior. Absolutely brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILLY HART ~ ALL OUR REASONS
ECM 2248 (Barcode: 602527866314) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
This is the debut album on the legendary ECMFind albums on this label label by veteran American drummer / composer Billy HartFind albums by this artist, who is one of the greatest drummers in Jazz history, although he is rarely mentioned by critics. He was a part of many pivotal Jazz recordings over the years with such great musicians as Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist and of course Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. Unfortunately his recordings as a leader are relatively rare. This is the second album by his recent quartet, which includes saxophonist Mark TurnerFind albums by this artist, pianist Ethan IversonFind albums by this artist and bassist Ben StreetFind albums by this artist. Hart, Iverson and Turner all contribute compositions on this album and the quartet performs them with elegance and flair, which is usually identified with European Jazz, which is probably the reason behind ECM´s decision to include this music in their catalogue. This is modern Jazz at its best, firmly based in the tradition and expanding it towards new territory. Beautiful stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARILD ANDERSEN ~ CELEBRATION
ECM 2259 (Barcode: 602527909479) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2012
Norwegian bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist has been one of my favorite musicians since decades and his immense talent and class were always beacons of light in the dark. His elegance and natural cool emphasize the best qualities of Scandinavian Jazz in particular and European Jazz in general. His numerous recording, mostly for ECMFind albums on this label, are all exemplary and his unshaken quality over the years is simply legendary.
This album finds Andersen in quite unusual circumstances, cooperating with a large Jazz Orchestra, in this case the Scottish National Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist directed by saxophonist Tommy SmithFind albums by this artist. He and the orchestra perform five compositions by fellow ECM musicians: Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and Trygve SeimFind albums by this artist (Garbarek and Seim being also fellow Norwegians) and one of his compositions, celebrating the music of ECM, which is considered by many to be the most important contribution to contemporary musical Culture in the last four decades.
The six compositions have been arranged for the large orchestra, with the arrangements being very delicate and spacey, opening up slots for beautiful bass solos performed by Anderson and other musicians. The overall atmosphere of the music is very lyrical and somewhat subdued, applying the famous Scandinavian touch to the entire project, even in the case when the original music originates well beyond that sphere of influence. Andersen stands in the focal point performing some absolutely amazing bass solos, which could drive most bass players to complete despair. As stated before, the orchestra takes a step back, playing subtly and beautifully, but always remaining in the background, where it belongs in this particular project. This modesty and proper perspective deserve a great praise.
The music was recorded live and as usual for an ECM production offers a wonderful sonic quality in addition to the obvious musical virtues. Those familiar with Andersen´s achievements will love this music and those still ignorant of them should use this opportunity to repent. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL MOTIAN ~ PAUL MOTIAN
ECM 2260/65 (Barcode: 602537223466) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1984 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set contains the first six albums by the legendary American drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are: "Conception VesselFind albums with this title" (ECM 1028) recorded 1972, "TributeFind albums with this title" (ECM 1048) recorded 1974, "DanceFind albums with this title" (ECM 1108) recorded 1977, "Le VoyageFind albums with this title" (ECM 1138) recorded 1979, "PsalmFind albums with this title" (ECM 1222) recorded 1981 and finally "It Should`ve Happened A Long Time AgoFind albums with this title" (ECM 1283) recorded 1984. Except for just two cases all the music is composed by Motian and performed by various ensembles: three are by a trio, two by quintet and one by sextet. The musicians include pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, guitarists Sam BrownFind albums by this artist and Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Carlos WardFind albums by this artist, Charles BrackeenFind albums by this artist and Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist, bassists Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, David IzenzonFind albums by this artist, Jean-Francois Jenny-ClarkFind albums by this artist and Ed SchullerFind albums by this artist and several others
These albums are all superb examples of Motian´s talent as a composer, who is able to weave beautifully melodic tunes, which nevertheless are open enough to serve as vehicles for extensive improvisations. Except for the first album in this Box Set all other ensembles led by Motian are pianoless and relay mostly on guitar as the harmonic instrument, expressing Motian´s deep affection for this instrument.
Of course Motian´s most important contribution to the Jazz idiom was his revolutionary approach to drumming, which in his case almost completely transformed the instrument´s role form time keeping tool to an instrument performing alongside the other instruments in the ensemble.
Motian´s intimate and complex music may be somewhat difficult for a mainstream Jazz fan, but it truly deserves an open-minded effort to be penetrated and then enjoyed in full. This music is after all an important chapter in American Jazz, which is ambitious and highly aesthetic, and which manages to break from the stale traditionalism into new vistas.
Side Note: These albums are not available on CD individually, so this is the only way to obtain them in CD form.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ SALTASH BELLS
ECM 2266 (Barcode: 602527981086) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2012
This is another addition to the series of solo albums by British multi-instrumentalist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, which he has been creating in the last 40 years since the release of his "Westering HomeFind albums with this title" album in 1972. These musical wonders create a unique universe of music, of which Surman is the sole Creator, but which is shared by many of his admirers all over the world.
This album comprises of ten new original compositions by Surman, which he performs by overdubbing tracks while conversing with himself. He uses soprano, tenor and baritone saxophones, alto, bass and contrabass clarinets, harmonica and synthesizer to create an amazing range of sounds and colors. He plays the melody / theme and later the improvisations on top of a synthesized background, sometimes using loops and other devices, but cleverly avoids the usage of electronic drums, which might have been disastrous in such setting.
Surman never ceases to amaze with his wondrous sense of melody and his improvisational skills. Although those solo albums have a certain feeling of "familiarity" about them, they are all quite different from each other and all are simply astounding. This album has a slightly more mellow and lyrical atmosphere and is a bit less experimental, which perhaps makes it more accessible to a wider range of listeners. Not that Surman intentionally tries to sound more accessible, just this album´s overall mood is more "inviting", which will perhaps win him new fans, coming across his music for the first time.
With almost half a century of sublime music making behind him, Surman is an icon of British and European Jazz, and lucky for us all still an active and fruitful participant on the contemporary scene. His golden touch and legendary talents never fail, and this album is another absolute must have for his many fans, who will surely agree. Nor to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANU KATCHÉ ~ MANU KATCHÉ
ECM 2284 (Barcode: 602537094561) ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012
This is the fourth album for the ECMFind albums on this label label by French / African (born in Ivory Coast) drummer / composer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quartet, which includes Norwegian trumpeter Nils Petter MolvaerFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Tore BrunborgFind albums by this artist (both members of the band MasqualeroFind albums by this artist in the past) and British keyboardist Jim WatsonFind albums by this artist. The album includes ten original compositions, all by Katché.
This quartet returns to the trumpet / saxophone front line, which Katché used on his first two albums and which seems to fit best his musical concept, which is melodic mainstream Jazz supported by strong rhythmic riffs. His compositions are very lyrical and somewhat restrained, which is an ideal environment for the Scandinavian players. The keyboards are used also extensively as a tool to provide ambient soundscapes and overall atmospheric effects. The absence of bass creates a sharper contrast between the melodies and the rhythmic patterns. The entire album has a significant Scandinavian Jazz touch, spiced by the African based drumming, with work together wonderfully.
There is little innovation here, but the music is aesthetically pleasing and wonderfully performed. All these players are very talented musicians and their individual statements as well as collective playing is simply spotless. As far as the compositions are concerned, it seems that this is the best set of original compositions by Katché so far and he obviously is getting better at this aspect of his career in time. For me Watson is the most interesting player on this album, with a truly chameleonic ability to move form one keyboard instrument to another, always being perfectly suitable for the specific piece of music.
The sound quality and ambience are brilliant, as always with ECM recordings. This album should satisfy most connoisseurs of contemporary Jazz and for Katché fans this is another "must have" trophy. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ SLEEPER
ECM 2290/91 (Barcode: 602537055708) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2012
This album contains the recording of the April 1979 Tokyo concert by the pianist / composer Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and his European quartet with saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist, which was recorded some 23 years before the date of its release. It comprises of seven original compositions by Jarrett, spread over two CDs with a total playing time close to two hours. The sonic quality of this live recording is breathtaking and considering that the quartet was at that time at the absolute artistic peak having just released the studio album "Personal MountainsFind albums with this title", the album is simply an icon of contemporary music, Jazz and way beyond.
It makes no sense to repeat statements about Jarrett and his quartet and their music, since so much has already been written on the subject. Obviously this is some of the best music ever created on this planet and an absolute "must hear" for every person, who is a true a music lover. Although recorded almost a quartet of a century ago, this music stays completely timeless and even more relevant today than at the time it was recorded, considering the state of music today.
This release makes one wonder how much more music is stored in the ECMFind albums on this label vaults and if keeping it hidden from the audiences is moral? Of course there are economic considerations involved, which raises the question as to this release´s full price status; after all it is an archival release, with the material already recorded and no new investment considered necessary, except for the manufacturing and copyright costs? Times are difficult for everybody, and even more so for music lovers, and if people can´t afford to buy this album they will, yet again, obtain an illegal download. An error of judgment, as far as I can tell, by a label that is usually a beacon of excellence.
But earthly considerations aside, this is Godly music and should be treated as such. Ergo, essential stuff!
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ ON THE DANCE FLOOR
ECM 2293 (Barcode: 602537066544) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
A few months ago I received an album, which was an attempt to create a Jazz tribute to the music of Michael JacksonFind albums by this artist. That album was pretty awful and therefore when I realized that one of my favorite Jazz heroes, veteran Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist, also recorded a tribute to the same Pop icon, my initial reaction was of course that of anxiety. It was a relief to find out that this time things worked out quite differently.
This album presents a live recording of a small Big Band (twelve musicians) led by Rava, which performs nine songs, eight of which are associated with (and seven written by) Michael Jackson, and one, which is used as an interlude, is the beautiful "Smile" written my Charlie ChaplinFind albums by this artist. Trombonist Mauro OttoliniFind albums by this artist wrote all the fantastic band arrangements. Rava obviously enjoys himself immensely playing this music, as this is the "happiest" recording he made in a very long time.
Most of the arrangements are slower than the original songs and place them in quite a different perspective. The orchestration adds a certain feeling of seriousness and maturity to the usual Jackson attitude, which was all razzle-dazzle and oomph. Rava´s age and his aptitude to take things easy are obviously the reasons why he prefers to solo on the laid back passages, which does not mean that the entire album lacks energy – on the contrary some of the arrangements are very lively indeed and even Rock hard at times. But in every case Jackson´s music is thoughtfully and intelligently transferred into the Jazz idiom, preserving the original melody lines and rhythmic riffs to certain extent, but allowing for a wide range of fascinating arrangements and a plentitude of exciting solos.
Overall it is obvious that this music is all a loving tribute, rather than simply an attempt to use Jackson´s fame and tragic death as an excuse to gain popularity. Rava, at his age and status hardly needs any stunts to affirm his legendary rank. As usual, he loves to play with young musicians and feels comfortable with Rock and electric guitars screaming behind (or in front) of his trumpet. His tone and phrasing are still unparalleled and he continues to be forever young, at least so far as his music is concerned.
This is a most pleasing release, which presents yet another face of Enrico Rava, which hopefully will find him new adoring fans among the younger listeners. In any case, this is definitely an album every Rava fan should explore, sooner or later. Hats off, Maestro!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ WISLAWA
ECM 2304/05 (Barcode: 6025371377256) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
I always try to write about albums as soon as possible after they arrive on my desk and then dwell a while in my CD player. Usually these immediate reflections about music turn out to be accurate, as far as I am concerned, and when I read them later, sometimes years later, my initial opinion remains unchanged. This album is a very special and unusual case, as I´ve let almost a year pass by since I´ve heard this music for the first time, holding my tongue. Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist has been (and still is) one of my absolute top Artists for decades and my admiration towards his music lasted unshaken for all that time… until this album. When I heard it for the first time my initial reaction was a kind of disappointment, which of course I found quite shocking and improbable. Therefore I decided not to write a review for the time being. In the time that passed since, I´ve listened to the album repeatedly and also heard this music live.
During the three years that passed between the time he recorded his previous album ("Dark EyesFind albums with this title") with a Scandinavian band and the recording of this album, Stanko deepened his ties with New York, taking a permanent residence there and establishing a new quartet, which he calls the New York Quartet. It comprises of himself and three American musicians: pianist David VirellesFind albums by this artist (aged 29 at the time of the recording, of Cuban origin, who arrived in NY in 2009), bassist Thomas MorganFind albums by this artist (aged 31, an upcoming bass player who took part in recording of no less than five albums for ECMFind albums on this label in 2012 alone) and drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist (aged 49, an established artist on the US scene). This is the first time for Stanko, to play with an all-American band, as all his previous recordings involved either Polish musicians or other European (mostly Scandinavian) musicians. This new direction, which was obviously deliberate, made s tremendous impact on the music of course.
The album is dedicated to the memory of the great Polish poetess and Nobel Prize Laureate Wislawa SzymborskaFind albums by this artist, who sadly passed away shortly before this album was recorded. Stanko knew Szymborska personally and even worked with her on occasion, accompanying the readings of her poetry. Her poetry inspired much of the music present on this album, as Stanko states in the liner notes. The album´s music, which consists of twelve original compositions, all by Stanko, fills two CDs, with six tracks on each CD, and the album was recorded in NY.
Stanko´s aficionados will find the music pretty much familiar; brief beautiful melodic themes, which are Stanko´s trademark, are usually stated at the beginning of each tune and than the quartet explores these themes via a series of lengthy improvised passages, featuring individual solos and returning back to the melody either by mid-time or just at the very end of each piece. This formula works for Stanko (and numerous other Jazz players) since many decades and one does not change horses in the middle of a race. Of course this formula works fine only if the musicians involved have a statement to make; otherwise the improvised passages tend to get somewhat less exciting.
One must admit that Stanko plays superbly on this album, definitely as good as he always did. His tone can be piercing like a spear, or delicate as a butterfly´s wings, lyrical and even romantic. More importantly he plays a lot, which of course is a benevolent treat, since on some of his recordings his net input is much more modest. Several of his passionate solos on this album are some of his best ever. His melodies are also simply brilliant, as always, but the duration of the entire album tends to create a feeling of sameness, sort of a déjà vu, as if the same melodic theme was already used more that once earlier on, which is definitely a very weird feeling.
The American quartet members are all fine musicians, no question about it. But their contributions on this album are honestly extremely limited. None of them, especially the pianist, rise in the slightest to the statue of the Master, even if the potential is there. Virelles is a splendid player, as evident live and on his other recordings, and in retrospect it is a great pity his contribution here is quite pale. The rhythm section does the job, but none of their efforts are exciting for the entire duration of the album, which takes some of the joy out of the potential pleasure of listening to this album. One might speculate that if this album was recorded a year later, after this material was performed repeatedly live by the quartet, the results might have been quite different.
The big question hidden behind this album is: does Jazz have a Nationality? Stanko´s music has been a symbol of European Jazz for decades. It impersonates the European individuality, elegance, sophistication, thousands of years of Cultural heritage and (for good and for bad) the European singularity. Is it that Stanko wishes to leave all that behind him and try something else, i.e. play American Jazz? Or perhaps he hopes to teach the Americans to play European Jazz? Or may be he wants to create a Euro-American Jazz amalgam? Or simply he thinks that Jazz is completely unrelated to geography? Surely only he can answer any of these questions.
Recording an album involves a series of decisions, and obviously some decisions ware made when this album was recorded. The result is simply the effect of these decisions. For anybody else recording an album of such quality would have been a momentous occasion, but sadly for Stanko this is just a very good album, or a magnificent failure, if I may say so. Nevertheless my love and admiration towards Stanko and his music remain unshaken.
| | | CD 2 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JULIA HULSMANN ~ IN FULL VIEW
ECM 2306 (Barcode: 602537177776) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is the third album as a leader on the ECMFind albums on this label label by German pianist / composer Julia HulsmannFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with British trumpeter Tom ArthursFind albums by this artist and German bassist Marc MuellbauerFind albums by this artist and drummer Heinrich KobberlingFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen relatively short compositions, four by Hulsmann, one by Arthurs, four by Muellbauer, one by Kobberling and the remaining three originating outside of the quartet lineup. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist presiding at the controls.
The first and immediate impression the listener is exposed to on this album is the stunning trumpet / flugelhorn work by Arthurs, which brings on a potent resemblance to the work of the lamented British trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. However, soon enough it becomes very apparent that Arthurs has his very own personal voice, and the Wheeler resemblance is simply our desire to find a successor who would continue Wheeler´s magic rather than what Arthurs in fact delivers herein. But obviously Arthurs is destined to suffer from the "Wheeler likeness" syndrome for a while
But yes, Arthurs definitely steals the show on this album, as Hulsmann and the rhythm section are often reduced to an accompanying trio, which seems to suit everybody concerned just fine. Her solo work is mostly limited and she is happy to step back and leave the center stage to Arthurs, which is a very smart move under the circumstances.
The music itself suffers from a lack of compositional coherence and continuity and sounds somewhat alike for the entire duration of the album, with just slight tempi changes and limited harmonic versatility. As a result this album is a classic example of what ECM critics call "much ado about nothing".
So eventually it all boils down to this: an album that would have been altogether quite unremarkable is saved by the brilliant trumpet parts, which are fabulous but can´t really hide its flaws and weakness.
| | Updated: 11/09/2016Posted: 11/09/2016 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD / JASON MORAN ~ HAGAR`S SONG
ECM 2311 (Barcode: 602537245505) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is a beautiful duo album by veteran US saxophonist Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and much younger pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, who plays with Lloyd since several years. The album comprises of fourteen pieces, eight of which are Jazz / Rock / Pop standards, which receive here a very special treatment and one is an original composition by Lloyd. The remaining five are also composed by Lloyd and constitute a musical suite, which gives the album its title.
Lloyd´s status as a player is beyond legendary and his latest output completely defies the limitations that age imposes on people, which is absolutely astounding. His tone, sensibility, aesthetics and virtuosity are simply stunning and being enhanced by maturity and experience give a new meaning to the term "musical perfection". Moran, one of the most important pianists to emerge on the US scene in the last decade, proves to be both a worthy partner and a faithful supporter to Lloyd´s artistry.
Lloyd´s decision to revisit some of the most iconic Jazz standards, as well as no less iconic pieces by Bob DylanFind albums by this artist or Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist (the Beach BoysFind albums by this artist) is somewhat surprising, as he is known to concentrate mostly on his original material. These Jazz standards are obviously very dear to his heart to return to them with such love and sensitivity. The non-Jazz material is a nice reminder of the period when Lloyd´s music was a part of the emerging Jazz-Rock scene in the US, one of the most exciting periods in music history.
Lloyd plays flutes on this album, which is also quite a rare occasion to be reminded how beautifully he can handle that instrument as well. The interplays and musical conversations between him and Moran are a striking example of mutual empathy, understanding and respect between musicians, regardless of their age difference.
Overall this is a superb album, full of deeply moving music from start to finish, perfectly and most sensitively performed by Master musicians and beautifully recorded. One can hardly ask for anything more as far as musical aesthetics and creativity are concerned. This is superb music in every respect and a must for any serious Jazz listener.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ DANCE WITHOUT ANSWER
ECM 2333 (Barcode: 602537430475) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is the fourth (third on the ECMFind albums on this label label) album by British Jazz diva vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist recorded in a trio format with Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. The album presents Winstone´s interpretations of thirteen songs; three of these songs are original compositions by Gesing with lyrics by Winstone, two others are compositions by Tomas MendezFind albums by this artist and Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist again with lyrics by Winstone, two are original compositions by Venier and the rest are Pop songs, including one song from MadonnaFind albums by this artist´s repertoire, which all get the special Winstone treatment.
As usual with these trio albums, the music is an expression of intimacy and subtlety, full of wonderful dialogues and trialogues between Winstone and her cohorts, always deeply respectful and sympathetic; an obvious labor of love and mutual understanding. The music is stripped to the bare essence, both harmonically and melodically, leaving just Winstone vocal acrobatics and instrumental ornamentation. It is obviously a "less is more" statement, and in this case the more is an understatement.
Winstone is not only a great vocalist, but also a Master of delivery and weaver of theatrical tension and aesthetic magnificence. Although seemingly simplistic, her vocal delivery is in fact deeply complex, which thanks to her total control of her vocal abilities appears to be simple to the listener.
Contrary to the minimalist approach, the music this trio creates is complete in every way. Just the voice and two instruments are able to create a coherent and perfectly woven tapestry of sound, which says everything it is meant to say. It is especially evident in the interpretations of the Pop songs, which many listeners might be familiar with in their original versions, and which sound here more convincing and striking even when stripped from the heavy arrangements and instrumental background, which often hides the essence rather that reveals it.
This album is another milestone in Winstone´s long and accomplished career, finding her in full command of her vocal and aesthetic capabilities. An obvious must have to the many Winstone faithful fans; this album is also an excellent window of opportunity to notice her exquisite Art, for those who have not discovered her yet. As usual, thank you Milady for being there, singing and most of all being yourself!
| | Updated: 28/05/2018Posted: 28/05/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACOB YOUNG ~ FOREVER YOUNG
ECM 2366 (Barcode: 602537688968) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is the 6th album as a leader (3rd on ECMFind albums on this label) by Norwegian guitarist / composer Jacob YoungFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with Norwegian saxophonist Trygve SeimFind albums by this artist and a Polish rhythm section of pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, collectively known as Marcin Wasilewski TrioFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, all original compositions by Young. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by my late Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, offering a spectacular sound quality, as expected.
The music is beautifully melodic, almost romantic, flowing gently and being a classic illustration of the Nordic Jazz sound. Although Young is undoubtedly the leader of this recording, he is certainly happy to share the spotlight with Seim and Wasilewski, who share at least as much if not more of the soloing duties with the leader. The Polish rhythm section is absolutely perfect for this music, as Wasilewski is a Master of romantic / lyrical expression, as evident on his numerous recordings with this trio. Strangely / sadly it took a whole decade for Young to record his next solo album “EventuallyFind albums with this title” to follow this one.
Overall, this is a wonderful piece of Norwegian Jazz, which after all is still very much associated with the Nordic Jazz idiom, going back to the early Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist recordings, which influenced generations to come. Exquisite performances by all the musicians, beautiful compositions and crystal clear sound combined, create a classic modern Jazz album with a pinch of Nordic cool and Polish warmth.
| | Updated: 27/01/2024Posted: 27/01/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ SONGS FOR QUINTET
ECM 2388 (Barcode: 602547046536) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015
I am writing these words with heavy heart, realizing that this is an epitaph of sorts, as this is the last album by British (Canadian born) Jazz trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, recorded less than a year before his distressing death. Wheeler´s music was a continuous element of the soundtrack of my life for over fifty years and I was lucky to hear him performing live and talk to him on various occasions and of course listening to his numerous albums, always following his endeavors, from near and far. For me Wheeler always epitomized the absolute essence of Jazz: intelligence, sensitivity, superb ability to compose unforgettable melodies, or as he liked to call them "songs", and most importantly his open-mindedness and courage to step beyond the obvious and the familiar into terra incognita. It is impossible to imagine the modern British Jazz, and in fact European Jazz as a whole, without his crucial contributions, as he was always there in the eye of the hurricane of its essentially important developments.
This album presents a recording by an all British quintet, which includes two British Jazz veterans of the first post WWII generation: saxophonist Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist (born 1948) and bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist (born 1949) and two veterans of slightly younger generation: guitarist John ParricelliFind albums by this artist (born 1959) and drummer Martin FranceFind albums by this artist (born 1964). Together they perform nine original compositions by Wheeler, which are again called "songs", as they are all beautifully melodic. The quintet expands these melodic themes into modern Jazz miniatures, with a typical British Jazz elegance, minimalism and virtuosity.
All music created by Wheeler over time became part of the absolutely classic Jazz heritage and this album is no different. Both the compositions and their treatment by the quintet are simply perfect in every respect and the listener is treated to a "final product" of the highest quality, being simply left to relax and enjoy this glorious music. Whatever one´s musical background and level of Jazz appreciation, this music is simply beyond being analyzed and its aesthetics should suffice to be recognized as a masterpiece.
Of course life will continue, as it always does, regardless of who is left behind. The collective human heritage, which has been expanded and enriched by Wheeler´s presence, will be hopefully properly remembered and cherished. Although in today´s world humanity suffers from the ever shortening attention span, the human ingenuity and culture will prevail in the long rage, provided of course that humanity manages to avoid self obliteration. Wheeler´s recordings are all beautiful gems and let´s treat them as such, today, tomorrow, forever…
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ MADE IN CHICAGO
ECM 2392 (Barcode: 602537809356) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015
Although born, raised and musically educated in Chicago, pianist / Master drummer / composer / bandleader Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist left the Windy City and moved on to the Big Apple in 1966, leaving behind his schoolmates and bandmates from the Chicago loft scene. He soon got involved with such pivotal Jazz figures like Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, and later on led many of his own ensembles, living one of the most fulfilling and artistically creative lives in American Jazz history.
In the meantime his Chicago cohorts: pianist Muhal Richard AbramsFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Roscoe MitchellFind albums by this artist and Henry ThreadgillFind albums by this artist became the core of the AACM, one of the most important American Jazz platforms, which gave birth to countless revolutionary recordings and kept the American Jazz developing and expanding the boundaries set by the stale mainstream traditionalism.
The celebrations of DeJohnette´s seventieth birthday created the opportunity to bring DeJohnette together again with Abrams, Mitchell and Threadgill. The specially formed quintet was formed by adding the Chicago born and based bassist Larry GrayFind albums by this artist and the quintet recorded the music presented here live. They perform six original compositions, two of which are by Mitchell, one each by Abrams, DeJohnette and Threadgill and one is credited to all five quintet members.
People familiar with the recordings by the Chicago scene musicians will find this music pretty familiar stylistically and the AACM aesthetic prevails throughout, with long, slowly developing themes and extended improvisations setting the tone. The melodic threads, stated usually after a moody preamble, are then extensively improvised upon, only to be repeated by the end of each track. There is a lot of space and freedom in this music, which allows all the musicians to state their own ides as well as exchange ideas with the other members of the quintet.
This is definitely not the kind of music that DeJohnette usually plays outside of this specific project and his ability not only to blend in but also contribute significantly to the overall result is truly remarkable. His incredible sensitivity, elegance and technical brilliance are here right in the open, for the listener to enjoy.
As much as this album celebrates DeJohnette´s lifetime achievements, even more so it celebrates the Chicago Jazz scene, which is undoubtedly the most creative and adventurous center of ambitious music in the USA, burgeoning with inventiveness and passion, not only amongst the older generation but also involving many your Jazz and Improvising Music artists. Should this album prompt more listeners to plunge deeper into Jazz Made in Chicago, DeJohnette added another milestone to his magnificent career.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ HAMBURG `72
ECM 2422 (Barcode: 602547042569) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2014
The piano trio with bassist Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist was Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist´s first ensemble as a leader and he recorded several albums with the trio before adding saxophonist Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist, creating the so called American quartet. By the time this music was recorded the trio did not perform any more as such and it is probably one of the last if not the last concert they played together, which was recorded. Jarrett plays primarily the piano but also flute, soprano saxophone and percussion. The album includes six compositions, four of which are his ("Everything That Lives Laments" was recorded on the trio´s last album "The Mourning Of A StarFind albums with this title" / "Take Me Back" was recorded on Jarrett´s "ExpectationsFind albums with this title" album just a couple on months earlier), one is by his (then) wife Margot and one by Haden (the famous "Song For Che").
This was a transition period for Jarrett, following his early solo career and the stint with Miles Davis, but before he found his true individual voice, which reached its apex in his trio with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The seeds of greatness are of course there, but not the fully blossomed genius. Therefore this album suffers from the same problems all the rest of the recordings by that trio suffer from: a lack of focus and consistency. On the other hand it is the best sounding recording (which is hardly surprising) of this trio´s releases.
Overall this is a very important historical document as far as Jarrett´s career is concerned, obviously essential to Jarrett´s enthusiasts following his career closely (and buying absolutely every album he is on), but hardly Jarrett at his absolute best, a curiosity rather than a groundbreaking statement.
God only knows (and perhaps Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, but it is highly possible they are one and the same) how spacious the ECMFind albums on this label vaults are and how many more archival Jarrett´s albums are going to surface in the future. Hopefully they will prove to be more exciting than this one.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EBERHARD WEBER ~ ENCORE
ECM 2439 (Barcode: 602547120519) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 - 2007 Released: 2015
According to his own words, spoken in an interview included in the liner notes of this album, this is probably the last album by the seminal German Jazz bassist / composer Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist. It is a companion to the "ResumeFind albums with this title" album released three years earlier and presents the same concept created from the same musical source – a series of bass solos played by Weber between 1990 and 2007 while he was a member of Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist´s group, edited out of live recordings by the group made in many locations across Europe. This album includes thirteen such pieces, following the twelve pieces previously issued on "Resume".
Since his stroke in 2007 Weber is no longer an active performing musician and since his disability prevents him from playing the bass, he uses the edited bass solos as vehicles to "re-compose" them into new musical pieces, adding keyboard parts and inviting his old friend, Dutch trumpeter Ack van RooyenFind albums by this artist to add flugelhorn to some of these pieces, whose contributions turn out to be brilliant and fit the bill like a glove.
This album is not only a great musical achievement but also, and perhaps more importantly so, a symbolic triumph of mind over body. The fact that Weber is able to overcome the physical and mental obstacles and continues to be a creative human being is a tremendous lesson teaching us that disability and illness are just a minor hindrance for heroic artists.
The music is, as usual, a superb example of European approach to Jazz improvisation, with grace, elegance and sophistication play the first fiddle. Weber always was, like many of his German companions, a proud European, refusing to restrict his unlimited vision and artistic scope to rigid mainstream Jazz guidelines. He stated that fact repeatedly, and paid the price, as his music never really "made it" in the US, where he was often described as "a weirdo playing that no good Euro-jazz".
Of course time is often the best judge of values and this music is undoubtedly here to stay. Weber´s completely unique approach to the bass technique and particularly sound made a tremendous impact on many Jazz musicians around the world and his subtle aesthetics is always a source of first rate musical experiences. If this is indeed the last time we are able to hear new music created by this sublime artist, I can only hope that reality will prove everybody wrong…
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLEY / SHEPPARD / SWALLOW ~ ANDANDO EL TIEMPO
ECM 2487 (Barcode: 602547797117) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is the 3rd album by the trio co-led by American Jazz pianist / composer Carla BleyFind albums by this artist, British Jazz saxophonist Andy SheppardFind albums by this artist and American Jazz bass guitarist Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist. The album presents five tracks, the first three being parts of a suite. All the compositions are by Bley. The music was recorded by the great Stefano AmerioFind albums by this artist and offers a sensational sound quality.
The beautifully melodic music is a superb example of Bley’s unique sense of melody and compositional aesthetics, which is her trademark since 1960 on. When she died in 2023, Bley left a vast body of compositions created in over six decades, many of which remain absolute Jazz classics.
The trio offers a tight, precise and beautifully well balanced music-making tool to present the music, complementing each other for the entire duration and exchanging lead parts in tandem. The entire presentation is minimalist and modest, with not one unnecessary note, offering a melancholic journey, full of beauty and reflection.
The trio would record only one more album together, called “Life Goes On”, which would be Bley’s final recording.
Overall, this is a beautiful, delicate piece of music, which summarizes quite faithfully her entire career, not only as performer and composer, but perhaps more importantly as an instigator and catalyst of styles and directions, far beyond her own career.
| | Updated: 29/12/2024Posted: 29/12/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PETER ERSKINE ~ AS IT WAS
ECM 2490/93 (Barcode: 602547558329) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1992 - 1997 Released: 2016
This wonderful Box Set contains the four albums by the American drummer / composer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist recorded by his trio which included British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, which are: "You Never KnowFind albums with this title" (ECM 1497) recorded 1992, "Time BeingFind albums with this title" (ECM 1532) recorded 1993, "As It IsFind albums with this title" (ECM 1594) recorded 1995 and "JuniFind albums with this title" (ECM 1657) recorded 1997. The music was mostly composed by the trio members. All these albums were recorded at the magnificent Rainbow Studio in Oslo by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist.
Erskine, one of the most versatile and open-minded American drummers, who feels at ease in many diverse musical environments, has a long history of cooperating with European musicians, which strongly influenced his approach and brought him closer to the European aesthetics, which is strongly present on these recordings.
Piano trios led by the drummer are a relative rarity in Jazz history, but as these albums demonstrate they can be every bit as excellent as those led by pianists. These three Master musicians create superb music together, in the best tradition of the classic piano trio, strongly emphasizing European approach to melody and improvisation, full of elegance and lyricism. The music is all melody based and "well behaved", but can hardly be considered as mainstream, thanks to Taylor´s wonderful performances and rhythmic openness carried out by the rhythm section.
The piano parts played by Taylor are a striking evidence of his genius and the fact that he is no longer with us underlines the importance of this reissue, as the individual albums are of course no longer available. But the virtuosic bass parts by Danielsson and fabulous drumming by Erskine are equally worth being heard again of course.
As usual with this "Old And New Masters" series, the individual CDs are housed in plain white carton sleeves – a matter of elegance or budget? – and the booklet includes a very long background article, this time by respected critic John KelmanFind albums by this artist, which I seriously doubt many people have the stamina to read these days.
Overall this is an absolute must have for all Jazz piano trio lovers and of course British Jazz enthusiasts, who cherish every keystroke by John Taylor, like yours truly. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 11/07/2019Posted: 11/07/2019 | CD 4 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ DESCANSADO: SONGS FOR FILMS
ECM 2567 (Barcode: 602557869897) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the fifth (fourth on the ECMFind albums on this label label) album by British Jazz diva vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist recorded in a trio format with Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. Two additional musicians: Norwegian percussionist Helge Andreas NorbakkenFind albums by this artist and Italian cellist Mario BrunelloFind albums by this artist, appear as guest on the album. The album presents Winstone´s interpretations of eleven theme songs of cult, mostly European films, one of which is also repeated in a short solo piano version. Two of these songs have original English lyrics, Winstone wrote lyrics for six more of the themes and the remaining ones remain wordless vocalese pieces. Venier and Gesing wrote all the instrumental arrangements. The album is dedicated to two great British Jazz luminaries, who were inseparable from Winstone´s career over the years: pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, both sadly no longer with us.
The music is an intimate, highly elegant and exquisite piece of European Culture, which has an inclusive approach to Art, in which Cinema, Music and all other Art forms are simply different aspects of the same aesthetics. On this album Winstone in sublimely minimalist, as is the instrumental accompaniment, which only amplifies the overall effect of immediacy and deep empathy with the original music. She is, as always, consistent with her established vocal techniques and expressions, which enable a wide palette of vocal possibilities that she wisely and thoughtfully employs. Of course all the musicians involved are Masters of their trade and their ability to cushion Winstone´s delicate vocal phrases with their magic touches is utterly radiant.
Winstone´s albums are always a completely risk-free endeavors for me, pieces of sublime taste and perfect execution that one can "blindly" count on. It just occurred to me that I have known Norma longer that I know my wife, which seems to be forever. Since I met her in 1968 I have closely followed her achievements, often on the vanguard of the British / European Jazz, and she never ever disappointed me in any way. Such remarkable consistency and creative power is incredibly rare and I am grateful to her for five decades of musical delights.
I suppose this music might not appeal to all Jazz enthusiasts. It is definitely fragile and somewhat Spartan, compelling the listener to make an intellectual and emotional effort in order to absorb it, as all great Art does. Being familiar with these cult films and their soundtracks clearly helps. It is haute culture, obviously, which in our Neanderthal world gets barely noted, but that means it is something worth living for. If you know Winstone´s work, this album will be undoubtedly one of the crown jewels, if you don´t this is perhaps a great opportunity to discover her. In any case, this is a brilliant piece of music, which is out there for everybody to love!
| | Updated: 27/05/2018Posted: 27/05/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MACIEJ OBARA ~ UNLOVED
ECM 2573 (Barcode: 602557645620) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is the fourth album by the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Maciej ObaraFind albums by this artist and his international quartet, which also features Polish pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist and Norwegian rhythm section: bassist Ole Morten VaganFind albums by this artist and drummer Gard NilssenFind albums by this artist. It is the first studio recording by the quartet, as the three previous albums, all released on the Polish For TuneFind albums on this label label, were live recordings. It is of course also the first album by the quartet released on the German ECMFind albums on this label label. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are original compositions by Obara and one (the title track) is a relatively infrequently recorded composition by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist in charge of the sonic quality.
Obara´s numerous earlier recordings, including the three albums with the quartet present here, established his position on the Polish Jazz scene as a restless explorer, a rebel and a fearless avant-gardist, who constantly pushed the borders of contemporary Polish / European Jazz. These recordings were uncompromising, adventurous, soaked in free-form and Avant-Garde expressionism, and yet deeply rooted in the Jazz idiom´s tradition.
The fact that this is a studio recording, as already mentioned above, and taking into account the decisive role of Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, ECM´s supreme boss, who assumed the role of "musical producer" on this album, were obviously bound to have an effect on the outcome, but probably nobody could have imagined how dramatic the transformation was about to become.
The album is clearly divided into two sections (sort of A / B sides of an LP), with the first section (first four tunes) presenting deeply melancholic and introvert music, nicely rounded melodically and harmonically, but alas somewhat pale and monotonous, and the second part (last three tunes) being more ambitious and vibrant, but still not up to par with Obara´s earlier recordings. Gone is the fire and brimstone and the Obara heard on this album is all gentleness and sweetness, delicately uttering lovable notes, who seems to have lost completely the identity he worked for years to establish. Is this the next stage of development for Obara and his quartet? Quite possibly, but his old identity will be sadly missed.
But not everything is lost as far as this album is concerned. Wania manages to escape unspoiled and his work here is as brilliant as always, pure genius in fact. When he solos the music suddenly comes alive and sparks are flying. His brief interludes move elegantly into free-form, albeit briefly, finding the way back within a few bars. In many respects this album is as much Wania´s triumph as it is Obara´s underachievement. Sadly Wania´s brilliant work is not enough to save the album from the lethargic flow of "nice notes". The rhythm section is also excellent proving that playing in a much more relaxed environment is still within their capability and can be done intelligently and excitingly. And of course the sound quality is as heavenly as one might expect.
I am deeply saddened by the fact that this, obviously flagship recording by Obara, turned out to be less than I´d have hoped for. I can only hope that everything will turn for the better in the future.
Side Note: I have to admit that I was completely and utterly flabbergasted by the mass hysteria on the Polish Jazz scene surrounding the fact that this album was released on ECM. It is true that Obara is only the third Polish Jazz leader to have his album released by ECM (preceded by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist), but what does it really mean?
Firstly it means that Manfred Eicher is simply not familiar enough with the burgeoning Polish Jazz scene and its world class talented musicians. If he was familiar with them, he would have surely invited some of them to record for his label, especially in view of the fact that dozens of Polish Jazz albums released by small independent Polish labels are way more interesting and meaningful than most of ECM releases in the last couple of decades.
Secondly it means that ECM is still considered by many people as a leading recording label, whereas in fact it lost its legendary status and influence many years ago. As pioneering and groundbreaking as the label was in the first couple of decades of its existence, bringing up scores of Jazz musicians to the attention of music connoisseurs, the label´s impact and leadership vastly diminished in time. Just ask yourself how many albums in the ECM catalogue do you know / own that were recorded in the 1970s / 1980s and how many albums you know / own that were recorded since 2000? Do the same with a list of recording artists who released albums on ECM in these two periods? The statistics are abundantly clear.
And lastly it means that Polish Jazz scene is completely consumed with the inferiority complex that has always haunted it, looking somewhere else for excellence and example rather than paying tribute to its own Artists and showing them the appreciation they really deserve. Many Polish Jazz fans are still convinced that only Afro-American musicians can play Jazz and everything happening at home is secondary and meaningless, whereas in fact that is completely contrary to the truth.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 30/11/2017 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ INVISIBLE THREADS
ECM 2588 (Barcode: 602567113171) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is an album by iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with Brazilian pianist / composer Nelson AyresFind albums by this artist and American (resident in Norway) vibraphonist Rob WaringFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original compositions, all by Surman except one by Ayres. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and was engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. At the time of writing, this is the last album by Surman on the ECMFind albums on this label label, recorded almost five years ago.
The music is almost a typical Surman signature, full of Nordic melancholy, British Folk references, highly lyrical and beautifully melodic. The minimalist trio format suits the music perfectly and the two companions are in complete blissful company with Surman’s long soprano and baritone saxophones and bass clarinet soli, which dominate the proceedings.
The wonderfully serene atmosphere that prevails for the entire duration of the album is a soothing remedy for the dreadful noise that surrounds us in the contemporary life, and listening to this music is very much like a meditating session, which restores one’s balance.
Surman is a brilliant composer and despite the fact that he recorded dozens of albums with his compositions, he manages to reinvent himself time after time, like a phoenix, fully ablaze in his Genius.
Ayres, who is a brilliant pianist and a great composer / arranger, renowned for his Big Band recordings, stays very much in the background on this album, patiently and amicably accompanying Surman, who gets the spotlight, and the same can be said about Waring. The quite unusual sound of saxophone, piano and vibraphone / marimba proves to work out splendidly.
Overall, this is another superb addition to Surman’s gorgeous recording legacy, which emphasizes his musical consequence and immense talents. For all his many followers, this is an absolute must have album, and needless to say we all hope for more albums to follow.
| | Updated: 27/03/2022Posted: 27/03/2022 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ AFTER THE FALL
ECM 2590/91 (Barcode: 602567165064) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2018
This is an archival live album by the iconic American pianist / composer / bandleader Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, recorded with his regular trio, which included bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twelve tracks, all of which are standards.
This legendary trio, often referred to as the “standards trio”, recorded twenty-one albums between 1983 and 2009, the first three of which were studio albums and the rest were live recordings. This album, recorded in 1998, was only released twenty years later (2018) and is (so far) the last release by the trio on the ECMFind albums on this label label.
The recording follows a period of two years of Jarrett’s break in his musical activity (1996-1998), as a result of the CFS illness. He continues to perform, albeit rather sporadically, until 2016, and in 2018 suffered two major strokes, which put an end to his illustrious career.
The music is, as always, heartbreakingly beautiful, with Jarrett undoubtedly shining as one of Jazz greatest interpreters of standards and the trio as one of the best ever classic piano trios in the history of Jazz. One might wonder if we need twenty-one albums to get a proof of the trio abilities, that in addition to dozens of Jarrett’s solo piano, Classical Music and a myriad of other recordings, with the answer to this question remaining open. He certainly proved a milking cow for ECM since his legendary “The Köln Concert” album from 1975.
Overall, this is obviously a brilliant display of Jarret’s and the trio’s as a whole mighty gift of creating brilliant Jazz, and as such becomes an instant classic, and a must in every Jarret’s completist collection. The sound quality is a tad below the usual ECM “perfection”, which is perhaps why this material was hidden for two decades, but on the other hands this adds a bit to the authenticity. Lovers of Jazz piano trio should be in tears, when listening to this stuff, despite the fact that it adds little to Jarrett’s established status.
| | Updated: 26/05/2023Posted: 26/05/2023 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WASILEWSKI TRIO ~ LIVE
ECM 2592 (Barcode: 602567384861) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2018
This is the fourth album on the ECMFind albums on this label label by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist and his trio, which also includes bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. This is also the first live recording by the trio on that label. The album presents seven compositions (the first two combined into one piece), all composed by Wasilewski except for an interpretation of a song by StingFind albums by this artist and a Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist tune. All of these compositions originate from the trio´s previous album "Spark Of LifeFind albums with this title" except for one that originates from the second album "FaithfulFind albums with this title". As usual for ECM recordings, the album offers excellent sound quality and clarity.
Wasilewski and his trio managed to develop a symbiotic musical relationship in the twenty years they played together and ten albums they recorded together, not to mention their work with the legendary Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist as members of his "Polish Quartet". These years proved to be fruitful and rewarding in every sense, and established the trio among one of the top European piano trios since the turn of the Millennium.
Wasilewski´s role as a composer also developed steadily over time and he is today a core member of the Polish Jazz musical architects, who define the idiom, combining the Jazz tradition with Polish Folklore sources, the typical Polish melancholy and deeply melodic / harmonic sense of beauty and European finesse. His round and elegant music is the epitome of modern European Jazz, continuing the path set by the Godfathers of Polish / European Jazz. Naturally in time he achieved a highly respected position on the local Jazz scene as one of the leaders of the mid-generation and a highly sought after performer.
The trio functions at all times like one body, with the obvious virtuosity displayed by the leader, but not less importantly by the rhythm section, which fused together create an effect that is greater than the sum of its parts. These live recording enables the numerous fans of the trio to experience an instantaneous connection with the process of music making, which of course is much more intensive than listening to a studio album.
Overall this is a superb piece of Jazz piano trio music, performed by Masters and full of delicate and intricate moments hanging in the air, before the next touch of a key or pluck of a string or strike of a stick take the listener to the next magical moment. Elegant, sophisticated, lofty and above all unpretentious and honest, this music is pennies from heaven to every true Jazz connoisseur! Hats off!
| | Updated: 18/09/2018Posted: 16/09/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARILD ANDERSEN ~ IN-HOUSE SCIENCE
ECM 2594 (Barcode: 602567168973) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2018
This is the third album by the trio led by Norwegian Jazz bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist, with British saxophonist Tommy SmithFind albums by this artist and Italian (resident in Norway) drummer Paolo VinacciaFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded live during a performance in Austria and presents six tracks, all original compositions by Andersen. The music was mixed and mastered by my Friend Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist and offers the expected spectacular sound quality.
Andersen has been my favorite Jazz bass players since as long as I can remember, and he impersonates the European Jazz essence more profoundly than most. His impeccable technique, creative virtuosity and sublime compositions are always a source of great joy and inspiration.
This trio showcases Andersen’s bass more prominently than most of his other ensembles, and the long lasting camaraderie with his partners herein is immediately apparent. The trio performs as one organic body, always perfectly in sync and unified in their goal to interpret the music with deep feeling and personal involvement, but observing the communal spirit.
Despite the fact that the music is quite intricate, both harmonically and rhythmically, the trio cuts through the tricky material like a knife through butter, elegantly and always exactly on the dot, with a Swiss-watch precision. All three members of the trio get plenty of opportunity to show their chops, but as already stated, the bass remains the dominant focus of the music, defining both the melodic and the rhythmic framework of the music.
Overall, this is a stunning piece of European Jazz, serving as a showcase of Andersen’s bass virtuosity, but at the same time displaying the depth and complexity of his compositions, as well as presenting an incredible ensemble work by the trio. As anything recorded by Andersen, this is pure gold from start to finish, with no dull moments for the entire duration and a triumph of European Jazz ingenuity, which takes the music into s completely different aesthetic plane.
| | Updated: 11/01/2024Posted: 11/01/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | AVISHAI COHEN / YONATHAN AVISHAI ~ PLAYING THE ROOM
ECM 2641 (Barcode: 602577522772) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019
This is an album by the duo of Israeli Jazz musicians: trumpeter Avishai CohenFind albums by this artist and pianist Yonathan AvishaiFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, two original compositions (one each by the duo members), one by Israeli composer Alexander ArgovFind albums by this artist, five Jazz standards and one Pop standard. The music was recorded by Stefano AmerioFind albums by this artist and offers the expected sublime sound quality. It is the 3rd album by Cohen released on the ECMFind albums on this label label.
The music is set in a highly melodic, almost romantic mood, relaxed and minimalist, emphasizing the beauty of the compositions and the intimacy of the duo setting, all in the “Art of the Duo” tradition. Both musicians toy with the melodies and rhythmic patterns playfully and charmingly, displaying their complete mastery of their respective instruments, eschewing any flashy displays or unnecessary ornamentation.
One might wonder how these interpretations might have been received by the original composers (John ColtraneFind albums by this artist or Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist for example), but they would probably just smile, despite the liberties the duo applied to the music. There is no doubt that the ECM mood and aesthetics were closely observed.
Overall, this is a very elegant and highly polished Jazz album, which offers a pleasant listening experience for a wide spectrum of Jazz listeners, but displays the tendency of ECM producer Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist to clutch all the music produced by the label into a uniform aesthetic and aural mould, which at some cases stifles the spirit of the music. Personally I prefer the earlier recordings by Cohen, which display more adventurous approach, but his trumpet work is here, as always, beyond reproach.
| | Updated: 15/09/2024Posted: 15/09/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY / GARY PEACOCK / PAUL MOTIAN ~ WHEN WILL THE BLUES LEAVE
ECM 2642 (Barcode: 602577404238) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2019
This is an archival live album by the Jazz trio led by the iconic pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist, with bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded during the tour following the release of their studio album “Not Two, Not OneFind albums with this title”, which was their first get-together after thirty-five years, since they recorded the 1964 session released on ECMFind albums on this label as “Paul Bley With Gary PeacockFind albums with this title” in 1970. The album presents eight tracks, five of which are original compositions by Bley, one is by Peacock, one is by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist and finally one is a standard.
Despite the fact that Bley is considered as an intrinsic part of the American Avant-Garde / Improvised Music / Free Jazz scene, his music always includes a deep melodic layer and an almost romantic tenderness, which keeps him apart from the aggressiveness / rowdiness, which usually characterizes these genres beyond the pond. Therefore, listening to music played by Bley is always a deeply moving experience, which involves aesthetic values and a rare emotional involvement.
This brilliant trio is ideal for Bley’s music in every respect, not only because the rhythm section matches his skills and emotions in every way, since Peacock and Motion are extraordinary musicians, and supremely sensitive partners. Every album featuring Peacock’s virtuosic bass performances is a guaranteed masterpiece, and there are literally dozens of albums he plays on.
Overall, this is a superb Jazz piano trio album, which although presenting quite complex music, should be accessible to a wide range of true Jazz lovers. The performances are absolutely marvelous, the sound quality is superb and the total experience is unforgettable.
| | Updated: 19/11/2024Posted: 19/11/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ SEPTEMBER NIGHT
ECM 2650 (Barcode: 602465191431) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2024
This is an archival live album by iconic Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded in 2004 and released twenty years later. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are credited to Stanko and one is co-credited to all four musicians.
Chronologically recorded between the sessions of “Suspended NightFind albums with this title” (2003) and “LontanoFind albums with this title” (2005), the material is a mixture or earlier compositions and some previously unrecorded material. Although recorded live, the music has been sterilized of the applause and any contact with the public present at the concert hall, while the music was performed.
The music is… well, everything one might expect from Stanko and the quartet, i.e. elegant, perfectly performed, beautifully balanced, classy, etc., etc. As such, it is a lovely piece of music, which many Stanko fans and followers worldwide will enjoy and cherish, and again as such worthy of being released, providing it is not a prognosticator of a series of similar albums of live recordings by Stanko, which in the case of ECMFind albums on this label and their deep vaults, is often the modus operandi one might expect.
One might ponder if this album offers any new insights about Stanko’s music of that period, or in general, and the answer is: “not really”. But the same can be said about many other live recordings by Jazz musicians, who are well documented on studio recordings. In some cases, the live recordings are diametrically different from the studio efforts, in other cases the difference is almost indistinguishable. The choice and the decision to buy this album or not is, as always, in the hands of the listener.
Overall, considering the fact that Stanko was one of the greatest European Jazz Masters, and this particular quartet was one of the tightest and able European Jazz ensembles, there is no risk of being disappointed by the music, even if it only once again affirms one’s admiration of this phenomenal Artist.
| | Updated: 04/08/2024Posted: 04/08/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MACIEJ OBARA ~ THREE CROWNS
ECM 2662 (Barcode: 602508069703) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is the fifth album by the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Maciej ObaraFind albums by this artist and his international quartet, which also features Polish pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist and Norwegian rhythm section: bassist Ole Morten VaganFind albums by this artist and drummer Gard NilssenFind albums by this artist. It is the second studio recording by the quartet and also the second album by the quartet released on the German ECMFind albums on this label label. The album presents eight tracks, six of which are original compositions by Obara and two are his interpretations of pieces by Polish Classical composer Henryk GoreckiFind albums by this artist.
My review of this album´s predecessor "UnlovedFind albums with this title", the ECM debut, turned out to be extremely controversial, and I found myself in a decisive minority speaking rather critically about that album. The review ended with the following quote: "I can only hope that everything will turn for the better in the future…" Well the future is here, but sadly things not only are not better, but this album turns out even weaker than its predecessor. The original compositions are boring and heartless, the playing anemic and I had to make an effort to listen to it in its entirety…
And then there is Wania. His piano parts are the only islands of sanity in this entire endeavor. Playing sparingly and as usually simply fabulously, he manages to keep the music together at times. Sadly even his enormous musical gift is not able to save the album, but at least his parts prevent the listener from jumping out of the proverbial window. The rhythm section is completely enslaved by this music, unable to transform it into something move meaningful. As a result the rare piano solo and trio parts are the only breath of fresh air in this music.
It’s sad to see a musician so desperately lost…
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: 26/08/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WASILEWSKI TRIO ~ EN ATTENDANT
ECM 2677 (Barcode: 602438100057) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2021
This is the 6th album by the Polish Jazz trio led by pianist / composer Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, which also includes bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, three of which are parts of the same composition / improvisation cycle co-composed by all three members of the trio, one is by Wasilewski, one by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist, one by Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist and finally one by The DoorsFind albums by this artist.
Although the album was released well over two years ago, somehow a copy never landed on my desk until my recent visit in Warsaw, where I attended a concert by the trio and got a copy of the album, autographed by the musicians, following a chat in the dressing room. Life is hectic and with pandemics, wars and political upheavals, anything can happen…
Together for well over two decades, the trio is not only one of the most firmly established Polish / European Jazz entities, but also a superb example of the unifying force of a stable Artistic environment. Three great and highly creative individuals, who are able to function like a multi-headed organism, in perfect symbiosis.
The music on this album is the most serene, delicate, contemplative and melodic collection of sounds that the trio created since a long time. In perfect contrast to the havoc surrounding my life at present, this is a perfect balsam for the soul, exactly what the doctor prescribed. As far as a classic Jazz piano trio is concerned, these are but a few better examples of the harmony, not only musical but also spiritual, that can be achieved within this format, going as far back as the Bill Evans / Scott LaFaro / Paul Motian trio, with an up to date musical format of course, which includes shades of Free Improvisation entwined within the proceedings.
Overall, this is a truly Masterful piece of contemporary Jazz, one of Wasilewski & Co. best recordings and an absolute must for all Polish / European Jazz enthusiasts. A minimalist outing, with the “less is more” mantra at helm, this album is an immediate classic!
| | Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 29/12/2023 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WASILEWSKI TRIO / JOE LOVANO ~ ARCTIC RIFF
ECM 2678 (Barcode: 602508359835) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is the fifth album by Polish Jazz trio led by pianist / composer Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, which also includes bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. It is only the second time in the trio´s recording career, which stretches back some twenty-five years, when it is expanded to a quartet with the addition of a saxophonist, this time the American Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, four composed by Wasilewski, one by Lovano and two versions of a Carla BleyFind albums by this artist tune. The remaining four tracks are collective improvisations, credited to all four participants.
The music moves between the composed and improvised realms, and remains very intimate, at times minimalist, with Wasilewski sticking to his wonderful lyricism, whenever allowed to do so. The rhythm section is as perfect and complying as humanly possible, with brilliant, albeit usually very short, bass mini-solos by Kurkiewicz and supportive and yet subtle drumming by Miskiewicz. In short everything seems to be perfect as long as the trio is left alone.
However, the unholy alliance with Lovano comes immediately into the picture from the first notes he utters. There is an obvious clash of Cultures, aesthetics and sensibilities here, which is sadly unbreachable. There are very few American Jazz musicians that are able to connect to the European Jazz sensitivities, especially those of Eastern Europe, and Lovano is certainly not one of them. He is a veteran player with vast experience, impressive recording legacy and obvious skills, but he never managed to cross the boundaries of the American Jazz tradition and his playing is completely predictable. As a result he is basically holding the trio back rather than playing along or ideally pushing them forward. Even, or perhaps especially, in the improvised pieces he really has very little inspirational input to offer.
Overall, the album certainly has its moments, the trio is absolutely superb and the original music by Wasilewski is as brilliant as usual, but for me the quartet does not work out that well, and the result is crippled. I am looking forward to the next trio album or hearing them play live, which is always heavenly experience.
And yes I have read dozens of "reviews" hailing this album as a Holy Grail…oh well I am pretty much used to be in the opposition and I still trust my ears.
| | Updated: 30/10/2020Posted: 30/10/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | DOMINIK WANIA ~ LONELY SHADOWS
ECM 2686 (Barcode: 602508695834) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
As astonishing as this might sound and in complete contrast to his extensive recording legacy and the hurricane-like ascent to the position of top Polish Jazz piano chair during a record time of just over a decade, this is only the second album as a leader by pianist / composer Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist and of course his debut album as a leader for the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label.
Some twelve years ago (2008) my friend, the great Polish Jazz bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist, sent me a duo album he recorded with a young and anonymous Polish pianist, who was over the pond in Boston getting his Master of Music degree there. The name of the young pianist was Dominik Wania and the album was "Sketch In BlueFind albums with this title", and the rest is history as far as I am concerned. I was immediate smitten with Wania´s playing and followed his development ever since, listening carefully to every recording he made over time and of course tried to hear him perform live whenever I could.
The modern Polish Jazz has known many remarkable pianists over the last six decades, who contributed to the development of the local scene. Some of them became famous and made many important recordings, others exploded with youthful brilliance only to disappear soon after without a trace. Each and every one of them had his idiosyncratic language and style of course, some being closer to the American Jazz tradition, other searching for new ways of expression. But in retrospect the arrival of Wania changed the rules of the game entirely, in view of his total originality.
Wania studied Classical Music and Jazz Music of course, but he managed to create a completely innovative amalgam of all musical traditions, which is uniquely his own. His fellow musicians attest to the fact that playing alongside Dominik is like being transferred into another state of mind and parallel universe, which is exactly my observation from hearing him perform live. He is every bit there playing with the rest of the band and yet at the same time he floats in the stratosphere high above everything else that is happening on the stage. But of course solo piano performances are something altogether different...
About a year before Wania recorded the music for this album he recorded another solo piano album called "TwilightFind albums with this title" with his interpretations of music composed by the great Polish composer Zbigniew PreisnerFind albums by this artist, which strangely was almost completely overlooked upon its release. Although diametrically different from the music on this album, since it was completely pre-composed, Wania´s interpretations soar high and above the basic melody lines and create a completely new entity (see my review of that album), and as such in some respects is spiritually quite related to the music presented herein.
This album presents eleven improvised pieces by Wania, characterized by a remarkable humility, fragility and minimalism. Every stroke on the keyboard counts and every pause matters. Wania manages to create a complete universe of sound and silence, which is mesmerizing and magical. The music escapes standard genre classification and could be considered as much Classical as Jazz, being both and none at the same time. Using spontaneously improvised music for this project, Wania managed to create something that might sound completely "composed" to the listener, as a result of its wonderfully coherent structure, tonality and intrinsic continuity. This sublime ability is just one of Wania´s trade secrets, which turn him into a wizard he truly is.
Of course this music reflects only some of the many facets of the phenomenon called Wania, since his recorded legacy portrays him in many diverse settings, but nevertheless it fully depicts his originality. No other piano player on this planet plays music the way he does, which of course can be said about just a handful of musicians.
As corny as it might sound this is a truly wonderful album, probably one of the most penetrating and enlightening creations of the last decade, which once again proudly shines in the aging ECM catalogue. People love to crown artists as "the next thing", in most cases completely out of proportions, but Wania undoubtedly is an Artist of the future, even though he already offers a glorious legacy as of today. He undoubtedly embodies the European aesthetics more accurately and broadly that most of his peers and the prospect of hearing more of his music in the future is one of those things that make life worth living.
| | Updated: 22/10/2020Posted: 22/10/2020 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | EBERHARD WEBER ~ ONCE UPON A TIME
ECM 2699 (Barcode: 602438331369) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 2021
This is a live solo bass album by the great German Jazz bassist / composer / bandleader Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist, one of the Godfathers of modern German Jazz. Recorded in 1994, the album was released only in 2021, and is so far the last Weber’s album on the ECMFind albums on this label label. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are original compositions by Weber and one is a standard. He plays electric upright bass and utilizes some electronic sound manipulation.
Weber’s collected recorded discography marks him as one of the most prolific and universal European Jazz bassists of all time. His unmistakable, highly melodic bass sound and sublime compositions are instantly recognizable and have been a source of joy for music lovers since the mid-1960s, when he shaped the modern German Jazz scene Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist, Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and others. Later on he also became the bassist of choice for many American Jazz musicians and of course led his own ensembles for several decades. I had been lucky to hear him perform on many occasions and his is absolutely unique each and every time.
Solo bass albums are often ridiculed and considered as sign of vanity by the bassist who record them, which of course sometimes is justified, but in some extraordinary cases, like this one, they can be truly divine. Weber is not only a great virtuoso, but more importantly he is a superb songweaver, which turns off of his soli into fully melodic, complete compositions. This album exemplifies this phenomenon perfectly, and anybody listening to this music will not miss anything else to be present beyond Weber’s bass.
Overall, this is truly music from out of this world, harmony of the spheres, angel’s lament or whatever else that comes to one’s mind when hearing Weber touch his bass. The entire album, from start to finish, is an uninterrupted orgy of pleasure, as if he was playing directly on the strings of the listener’s soul. It is one of those unrepeatable moments, and thank God it was caught for eternity for us to enjoy! This is way beyond just recommendable, it is absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 08/08/2023Posted: 08/08/2023 | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAKOB BRO / JOE LOVANO ~ ONCE AROUND THE ROOM: A TRIBUTE TO PAUL MOTIAN
ECM 2747 (Barcode: 602445994908) ~ DENMARK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022
This is an album by Danish guitarist Jakob BroFind albums by this artist and American saxophonist Joe LovanoFind albums by this artist, recorded in a highly unusual septet setting with three bassists: American Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and Thomas MorganFind albums by this artist and Danish Anders ChristensenFind albums by this artist, and two drummers: American Joey BaronFind albums by this artist and Spanish Jorge RossyFind albums by this artist. The album presents six tracks, two each by Bro and Lovano, one by American drummer / composer Paul MotianFind albums by this artist, to whom the album is dedicated, and finally one co-credited to all seven participating musicians.
The music is completely free spirited, mostly improvised with very little melodic continuity. It is mostly about atmosphere and despite the fact that it is performed by obviously highly talented musicians, sounds to me quite estranged and cold. It sadly represents the many ECMFind albums on this label albums, that despite the high potential completely fail to deliver anything worth mentioning.
Overall, for me this album says very little, and is one of those records that I continued to listen to until it was finished only from the respect I feel towards the musicians, never to return to it again.
| | Updated: 14/01/2025Posted: 14/01/2025 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARILD ANDERSEN ~ AFFIRMATION
ECM 2763 (Barcode: 602448285935) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022
This is an album by Norwegian bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist, recorded with an all Norwegian quartet, which also includes saxophonist Marius NesetFind albums by this artist, pianist Helge LienFind albums by this artist and drummer Hakon Mjaset JohansenFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are combined into a two-part suite, co-composed by all members of the quartet, and the last piece was composed by Andersen.
The music is very minimalist and although offers melodic themes, seems to be largely improvised. The performances are delicate, restrained, subdued and offer a highly contemplative atmosphere, very much in the Nordic Jazz tradition, but with a substantial element of Freedom. The performances are, as expected, stellar, as on all albums involving Andersen, despite the fact that the musicians are separated by a generation gap. But the younger representatives of the Norwegian Jazz scene herein are all seasoned Jazz musicians and offer world-class quality.
Andersen is not only my favorite all-time Jazz bass player, but also one of the finest Masters of his trade, and his extensive recorded legacy, not only on the ECMFind albums on this label label, is a wonderful example of the European Jazz aesthetics and superb class and exquisite taste.
Overall, this is another example of Andersen’s ingenuity as a leader / composer and a highly rewarding piece of music, although perhaps a tad more demanding than his usual output, which requires more patience / attention / piece of mind in order to enjoy the music fully. Time has been very kind to him and he is still producing superb music today and hopefully will do so for a long while.
| | Updated: 21/12/2024Posted: 21/12/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ WORDS UNSPOKEN
ECM 2789 (Barcode: 602458620351) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2024
This is a studio album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with British guitarist Rob LuftFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Norway) vibraphonist Rob WaringFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Thomas StronenFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, engineered by Martin AbrahamsenFind albums by this artist, who replaced Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist following his demise. The album presents ten tracks, all of which are original compositions by Surman.
The album reflects Surman’s long time connection with the Norwegian Jazz scene, not only as far as playing with Norwegian Jazz musicians and recording in Norway, but also his obvious affinity to the Nordic sound, which is particularly overwhelming on this album.
The music is very melodic, but the compositions and instrumentations are minimalist, very subdued and reflective, creating a lethargic atmosphere, which is of course characteristic of the Nordic Jazz sound. But of course Surman’s recordings in the last couple of decades all had already this tendency, so the consequence is not very surprising.
Surman is the dominating soloist and his absolute control of performance is phenomenal, completely untouched by the flow of time. The three accompanying musicians are masters of their trade, showing remarkable restrain and obvious respect towards the leader, leaving him in the spotlight at all time.
Overall, this is another tour de force by the great Master, one of the greatest European Jazz musicians of all time, who seems to be unstoppable and still in perfect condition. We are extremely lucky to be able to enjoy the fruits of his labor for such a long period of time, and of course pray for more of such bliss to be sent upon us.
| | Updated: 20/04/2024Posted: 20/04/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE / KIT DOWNES ~ OUTPOST OF DREAMS
ECM 2811 (Barcode: 602465191387) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is an album by British Jazz duo comprising of vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and pianist Kit DownesFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, four of which were composed by Downes, another four were composed by various composers and two are traditional tunes. Winstone wrote the lyrics to nine of the tracks. The music was recorded at the Artesuono Studio in Udine, Italy and engineered by Stefano AmerioFind albums by this artist, and offers a sensational sound quality.
British vocal Jazz Diva Norma Winstone (born 1941) is in absolute top form and her many followers are able to enjoy another masterly album featuring her unique sensitivities and talents. This intimate duo setting is the best opportunity to hear her vocal delivery, which despite her age is still stunningly clear and convincing, as it has always been. This carefully selected set of compositions, which she enhances by adding her poetic lyrics, are immediately recognizable and characteristic of her work, which is magically expressive at all times. The album does require attentive listening and concentration, in order to enjoy the complex details, but the effort is fully rewarded.
Kit Downes (born 1986) is less than half Winstone’s age, and yet he proves to be an ideal companion in this musical enterprise. His idiosyncratic compositions and approach to the piano reflect ideally the aesthetic values in the singer’s stylistics, and their work proves to be way beyond just the sum of the ingredients, where they fit and complement each other perfectly.
I have been an admirer of Norma’s qualities since I first heard her in the late 1960s, when she was at the focus of the burgeoning new British Jazz explosion, recording one sublime album after another. Her collected recording legacy is an absolute treasure trove of British / European Jazz, and this album is another jewel in the collection.
Overall, this is another brilliant addition to the magnificent life-long career of this great Artist, which none of her many admirers will dare to miss in their collections. It is minimalist and demanding, but exquisitely beautiful and aesthetically gratifying.
| | Updated: 26/08/2024Posted: 26/08/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ CHAMBER MUSIC
EMARCY 602498659601 (Barcode: 602498659601) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is the debut album by the trio comprising of the divine British vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Italian pianist / composer Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist / composer Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. The trio keeps recording to this day and released four more albums, all on the ECMFind albums on this label label (last album released in 2018). The album presents eleven pieces, eight of which were composed by the trio members and three originate from other sources. Winstone wrote the lyrics to four of the pieces. The album was recorded at the superb Italian Artesuono Studios and offers a remarkable sound quality and clarity.
Winstone seems to have found the ideal partners with these two excellent musicians and as a result a lasting and fruitful relationship was developed between them, producing over time a long series of exquisite albums. She is using all her vocal arsenal with the same effectiveness, both when singing words or wordless vocalese. Venier is a wonderful piano player creating layers of harmony beneath her vocals and Gesing develops a dialogue with her vocals with his soprano saxophone parts or atmospheric layers with his baritone clarinet parts. The chamber character suits the music superbly and the delicate, but highly expressive result is breathtaking.
In many respects this music is an epitome of European Jazz, which ideally combines improvisation with Classical Music elements creating a new way of expression and a new Jazz aesthetics, taking the idiom to another plane. Perhaps the fact that all three members of the trio come from diverse European Cultural backgrounds is the key factor in creating this unique amalgam, but whatever the reasons might be, something innovative and inspired is born here, and continues to grow with the consecutive albums.
For followers of British Jazz this album is also an important turning point, symbolizing the integration of British Jazz with the rest of the European scene, which up to the turn of the Millennium was still somewhat sectarian. Winstone has a rich history of cooperating with musicians from other countries even before this album was recorded, but the full synergy was achieved herein.
In retrospect this is still a groundbreaking recording which lost absolutely nothing of its originality and intrinsic beauty over time. Wholeheartedly recommended, but very difficult to get hold of a copy these days, still definitely worth pursuing!
| | Updated: 20/11/2018Posted: 20/11/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | RGG ~ SZYMANOWSKI
FONOGRAFIKA (Barcode: 5903292104843) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
This is the sixth album by the exquisite Polish Jazz piano trio RGGFind albums by this artist, and their first release following the changeover of their piano player, with Lukasz OjdanaFind albums by this artist replacing the founding member Przemyslaw RaminiakFind albums by this artist. For a piano trio the replacement of the pianist is equivalent more or less to a heart transplant in a human body, which is of course a tremendous upheaval. The fact that such transition not only is possible, but is eventually successful is nothing short of a miracle. Bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof GradziukFind albums by this artist should be congratulated for going through this experience unspoiled and unshaken in their team spirit. The fact that the trio chose to retain its name (rather than changing it to OGG for example) is a most welcome sign of respect towards their departed colleague and the will to continue the splendid tradition they created so far, a fine and very rare example of camaraderie winning over ego.
But the drama surrounding this album does not end with the personnel change; for the first time the trio decided to pay homage to a Classical composer, in this case the Polish early-20th Century pianist / composer Karol SzymanowskiFind albums by this artist. Szymanowski, a brilliant early-modernist / impressionist, who combined Polish Folklore and modernist compositional tools, is a rather neglected figure on the Polish scene, which is a great shame. Therefore the fact that RGG decided to make him the center of their new recording fits perfectly their non-conformist approach towards music. Of the thirteen tracks on this album, nine are interpretations of compositions by Szymanowski, three are composed by the bassist and the remaining one is a group composition. The original compositions are of course "in spiritu" inspired by the great composer. Following decades of Polish Jazz musicians obsessively interpreting the music of Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, it´s truly refreshing to hear some musicians turning the attention to other great Polish composers, like Szymanowski in this case.
What remains unchanged is the trio´s basic approach to music, full of freedom, beautiful silence between the notes, total dedication and amazing intellectual command, which takes the music to lofty peaks. Ideally, the listener of this music should be familiar, at least to some extent, with the original music by Szymanowski, but being realistic, this will be the case only in reference to very few listeners. But this music is so powerful and stunning, that it completely stands on its own as well. RGG managed again to create a sonic universe of its own, which keeps the tradition of the original music at its core alive a Century later, transforming it to contemporary set if aesthetic values and parameters. Perhaps this recording will inspire new listeners to discover Szymanowski, after listening to this gorgeous music: a double winner after all.
It makes no sense to compare Ojdana with Raminiak and additionally it means absolutely nothing as far as the music is concerned; the only thing that matters is the fact that he became an organic part of the trio, fitting ideally with his two partners and cooperating with them symbiotically and creatively. And most importantly the level of talent of virtuosity displayed by RGG was not lessened by an iota, which firmly places them at the very top of Jazz piano trios not only in their native Poland, but worldwide, easily! I´ve already written extensively about the talents of Messrs. Garbowski & Gradziuk, suffice to say they are without a doubt closer to Euterpe then most others I happened to have the pleasure to listen to.
The trio maintains the tradition of recording their albums at the now legendary Studio Tokarnia, under the auspices of the resident sound wizard Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist. The result is nothing short of spectacular, which stands its ground to any ECMFind albums on this label recording, again with ease. Therefore for all intents and purposes this album is equivalent to a Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist trio album on ECM; it simply does not get any better than this.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WACLAW ZIMPEL ~ STONE FOG
FOR TUNE 0009 (Barcode: 5902768701098) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is the debut recording by the quartet led by Polish Jazz clarinetist / composer Waclaw ZimpelFind albums by this artist with his countryman pianist Krzysztof DysFind albums by this artist and two German musicians: bassist Christian RamondFind albums by this artist and drummer Klaus KugelFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight compositions named using lines from poems by the US poetess Laura Winter. Three of the compositions are credited to Zimpel and the remaining five are group compositions.
Despite his young age (he was 29 years old when this music was recorded) Zimpel is already considered as one of the most important upcoming Free Jazz / Improvised Music figures on the European scene. In the scope of the last decade he managed to cooperate with many first-class musicians from Poland and abroad, play many concerts and record quite a few albums as a leader and as sideman, most of which were received enthusiastically by the critics.
The clarinet, Zimpel´s "weapon of choice", is sadly a much neglected instrument in contemporary music, Avant-Garde and Improvised Music included, and therefore his contributions are especially important, keeping the clarinet tradition alive. Except for the older generation clarinet Giants, like American Perry RobinsonFind albums by this artist, Israeli Harold RubinFind albums by this artist, French Louis SclavisFind albums by this artist, Italian Gianluigi TrovesiFind albums by this artist and a handful of others, Zimpel´s young voice is a fresh breath of air in this particular niche.
As to the music on this album, I find it slightly less exciting personally in comparison to his earlier recordings with ensembles like UndividedFind albums by this artist or HeraFind albums by this artist. Not that this album lacks anything in quality and power of expression, but perhaps it is less based on incorporating World Music motifs, which Zimpel excels at. This album firmly belongs to the "traditional" Free Jazz / Improvised Music milieu, if the word "traditional" applies at all in such cases. But regardless of my personal preferences, this is excellent music from start to finish, performed with passion and masterly ability, by all four musicians involved. The rhythm section provides exceptional backing, moving swiftly between almost swing to free form, Dys on piano spreads layers of twisted harmonic structures and Zimpel, as usual, plays the role of the of Hamelin´s Pied Piper, snake charmer and a Hassidic Klezmer, all in one. Most connoisseurs of Free Jazz will find this music very interesting and aesthetically enchanting.
The album was released by a new Polish label called For TuneFind albums on this label, which seems to be specializing in "unconventional" musical projects, like this one. All the releases on the label have a distinct graphic design, which appears to be copying the early ECMFind albums on this label, Hat HutFind albums on this label and other Avant-Garde labels following this path. Polish Avant-Garde Jazz fans know that this label is of course not the first of its kind, but the more the merrier. There is always place for good music and I wish the label a lot of success.
| | Updated: 12/10/2024Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESZEK ZADLO QUARTET ~ LIVE IN HAMBURG `75
FOR TUNE 0170 (Barcode: 5906395808847) ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2024
By the mid-1970s West Germany became a true Mecca of European Jazz. The great economic resurgence allowed benevolent support of Arts by the German regional and Federal governments, and Jazz became a highly popular and flourishing Artform, bursting with concert activity all around the country. The many indoor and outdoor Jazz festivals, venues ranging from newly constructed concert halls to small clubs and cellars, music schools with Jazz departments and a vast number of thriving independent record labels, like MPSFind albums on this label, ECMFind albums on this label and EnjaFind albums on this label, to mention but a few, all these created a climate, which not only enabled the local musicians to flourish, but also acted like a magnet pulling Jazz musicians from all over the world to move to Germany and take part in the celebration of creating the new European Jazz miracle.
Since Europe was at the time literally split by the Iron Curtain into “West” and “East”, moving to Germany from the USA or other West European countries was a breeze. However, as far as East European Jazz musicians were concerned, such move was, more often than not, only but a dream. That did not mean, of course, that some of them would not try, and eventually also succeed to make such transition.
Born in Krakow in 1945, Polish Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / educator Leszek ZadloFind albums by this artist was one of the first Polish Jazz musicians, who managed to make the “West” their new home. He moved first to Austria, in 1966, where he polished his education and performing skills, playing constantly with the best local and visiting international Jazz players. There he recorded his debut album “Inner SilenceFind albums with this title” in 1973. In 1975 Zadlo relocated to Germany, settling in Munich and quickly becoming an integral part of the busy local scene.
This album presents a live recording by Zadlo with an international quartet, which includes American pianist Larry PorterFind albums by this artist, who was one of the many US musicians staying at the time in Germany, and a German rhythm section comprising of bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe NayFind albums by this artist. The concert was a part of the 1. New Jazz Festival, which took place in Hamburg in June of 1975. The festival’s concerts were presented at two legendary local venues: “Fabrik” and “Onkel Pös Carnegie Hall”, where the music on this album was recorded. The Festival’s lineup included several ensembles, led by important international Jazz artists, like Norwegian Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist, American Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, German Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist and… Polish Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, another proud representative of the Eastern European Jazz scene. Parts of the performances by these artists were included on a commemorative album released by the Polydor label later that year. The fact that Leszek Zadlo was invited to take part in this important festival speaks volumes about his status as a part of the evolving European Jazz Avant-Garde.
The music is, as expected, a brilliant example of European Free Jazz / Improvised Music hurricane, exploding with emotions and sublime musicianship. Zadlo’s “infatuation” with the music of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist is obvious, but Zadlo offers his very own voice and interpretation of Freedom, which is perhaps less wild and instinctive, but rather more expressive and balanced, without losing touch with the world around. There is no doubt that Zadlo was at that period of his life perhaps the most “Coltrane oriented” European Jazz musician, all the way as total as the great Master, and with complete and full control of his faculties. Watching Zadlo on stage was like facing a Force of Nature, being totally and utterly swept by flow of his energy, all of which is wonderfully captured herein. His partners in crime are completely up to the task, as expected. It would be a sin to leave this music dormant in the vault and I am extremely happy to see it out in the open.
Love you my Friend, as always!
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 06/12/2024Posted: 06/12/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ BALLADYNA – THEATER PLAY COMPOSITIONS
GOWI 16 (Barcode: 786497093526) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1994
This little-known album by Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist contains the music he wrote for the theatre performance of the tragedy "Balladyna" written by Polish playwright Juliusz SlowackiFind albums by this artist. Not to be confused with Stanko´s pivotal album also entitled "BalladynaFind albums with this title", recorded almost two decades earlier and released on ECMFind albums on this label. The album presents the complete theatre soundtrack for the play, consisting of 23 tracks ranging in length between half a minute to over five minutes. The central theme is repeated many times in different renditions, arrangements, tempi and instrumentations, creating a beautiful and often chilling atmosphere. The music stands on it´s own as a completely valid piece of music, which can be enjoyed separately from the theatre performance it was intended for. The performers include Stanko´s quartet members: pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, as well as saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and percussionists Piotr WolskiFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew BrysiakFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this is an important piece of Stanko´s recorded legacy, similarly to his other soundtrack compositions, which show his rare ability to write wonderful atmospheric music. This is a must to all Stanko connoisseurs, although deleted since many years with (so far) no prospects for a reissue.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ KOMEDA
GOWI 22 (Barcode: 786497137329) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 1995
Polish Jazz musicians are well aware of the enormous contribution made to modern Jazz in their country by the Genius pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, the Godfather of modern Polish Jazz. Therefore they play tribute to the great man quite often, either by including his compositions or dedicating entire albums to Komeda´s music. This is one of such album, recorded by the great Polish Jazz trio, called Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, led by pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist with bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. This is the trio´s debut album. If these names seem somewhat familiar to you, no wander, as they are also the members of the superb Polish quartet let by the legendary trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, which recorded three albums for the ECMFind albums on this label label. In fact the trio now records for ECM as well. So now with everything in place, there is little need to expand much further here, as people familiar with the Stanko recordings already know this is one of the best piano trios in the world and everything they touch turns to instant musical gold. This album is no different and every Jazz fan on this planet should enjoy it greatly and with Komeda´s music present, things just can´t get much better. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HENRYK MISKIEWICZ / SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ LYRICS
GRAMI 002 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is an excellent album by veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, accompanied here by the best Polish piano trio called at the time of the recording Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, which consists of pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. There is a family connection of course as Michal is Henryk´s son. The quartet performs seven tunes, four of which are original compositions by the leader, one by Wasilewski, one is a standard and the remaining one is by the US composer Maria SchneiderFind albums by this artist.
Neither Miskiewicz nor Simple Acoustic Trio needs any introductions to people familiar with the Polish Jazz scene; Miskiewicz has been active on the scene since the early 1970s and over time played in several important ensembles like Sun Ship and was member of groups led by many of the leading Polish Jazz musicians as well as leader of his own groups. Simple Acoustic Trio are commonly recognized as the leading Polish piano trio, propelled to fame as the rhythm section on the seminal ECMFind albums on this label recordings by trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and now recording for ECM on their own.
Therefore there are no surprises here as far as the level of performances, which are simply spotless. Miskiewicz plays some great lyrical lines and the support from the trio is simply phenomenal, inventive and daring in some aspects but always solid and within the boundaries specified as the albums motto: music as a device to tell a story in a non-verbal setting. All the compositions selected for this album, original or not, fit the bill perfectly and the overall result is a prime example of intelligent modern mainstream Jazz, which remains fresh and moving in complete disregard of the passing time.
This is definitely an album no Polish Jazz music collector will be able to skip in their collection and a great example of how mainstream Jazz can remain valid and artistically sound today. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | FAIRPLAY & NORMA WINSTONE ~ FAR TO GO
GRAPPA 4056 (Barcode: 7033662040568) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1992 Released: 1993
This is a wonderful and little known album by Norwegian quartet FairplayFind albums by this artist, which consists of saxophonist / bass clarinetist Tor YttredalFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vigleik StoraasFind albums by this artist, bassist Torbjorn HillersoyFind albums by this artist and drummer Trond KopperudFind albums by this artist. British vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist joins the quartet performing vocal parts and contributing lyrics to four of the songs on the album, which offers ten original compositions, all composed by the quartet members. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist in charge of the recording magic, with spectacular results as usual.
The music is an absolutely stunning example of Nordic Jazz, with a slight touch of Fusion, due to the utilization of electric bass and keyboards. The music is strongly melody based, with the omnipresent Nordic melancholy and introspection, but ventures into open, more freely improvised explorations on the instrumental tracks. Winstone fits wonderfully to this musical environment both as a vocalist and a lyricist, and the cooperation is perfectly organic and as a result also extremely effective. Her vocal and improvised vocalese are absolutely top notch.
The instrumental pieces provide an opportunity to the quartet members to explore more adventurous direction, but overall the entire album is beautifully coherent and definitely offers a clearly defined musical aesthetics. It is interesting to hear this music in retrospect, especially in view of the later career of the members of the group, including ECMFind albums on this label recordings.
Overall this is a lost treasure and an absolute gem for all Winstone fans, British and Scandinavian Jazz enthusiasts and all people with ears in their heads. Not easy to find but worth the effort – absolutely stunning stuff!
| | Updated: 18/06/2018Posted: 18/06/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KEITH JARRETT ~ THE IMPULSE YEARS 1973-1974
IMPULSE! 237 (Barcode: 011105023726) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 1997
During the 1970’s Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist was living a double musical life, leading two completely different quartets – The American one (which recorded on Impulse!Find albums on this label - captured here) and the European / Nordic one, with which he recorded on ECMFind albums on this label. The ECM recordings brought him much glory and fame (in addition to his famous solo-piano recordings on that label), but the recordings with the American quartet, which included Dewey RedmanFind albums by this artist on reeds, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist on bass and Paul MotianFind albums by this artist on drums, remain somewhat overlooked / neglected by the jazz enthusiasts. This is of course a great pity, as these revolutionary performances include some of the finest Jarrett’s moments captured on record, as well as brilliant achievements by the members of his quartet. This brilliant Box Set is the companion to the other set, which includes Jarrett’s other recordings on Impulse! (Mysteries: The Impulse Years 1975-1977Find albums with this title, which unfortunately seems to be out of print). It includes material previously released on four Jarrett albums: Fort YawuhFind albums with this title, Treasure IslandFind albums with this title, Death And The FlowerFind albums with this title and BackhandFind albums with this title, but totals in almost double amount of music, with many previously unreleased tracks and tracks released here in their unedited (full) form. The music is of course typical Jarrett, moving constantly between melody and free form, somewhat expanding on the Ornette Coleman legacy, but always very individual and unique only to Jarrett. Redman is also at his best here, especially when captured live (the first 2 CDs were recorded live at the Village Vanguard). This is undoubtedly some of the best American jazz ever and hopefully more people will decide to re-visit these wonderful musical moments.
| | Updated: 26/08/2020Posted: | CD 5 Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOM CAWLEY / KIT DOWNES ~ HOMELY
IMPURE 005 (Barcode: 5060106349903) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
This is the debut album by British Jazz piano duo comprising of pianists / composers Tom CawleyFind albums by this artist and Kit DownesFind albums by this artist. Drummer Joshua BlackmoreFind albums by this artist plays on a couple of tracks. The album presents eight tracks, all original compositions, four each by Cawley and Downes. This is also the debut album by Downes, as co-leader and follows his recording debut with the trio TroykaFind albums by this artist, where Blackmore also participates as the trio member.
The music is a wonderful example of delicate amalgam of composed music and improvised interplays, which both the pianists perform superbly, exchanging chords and melody fragments with charm and elegance, in a typical humorous British way. By the time this album was recorded, Cawley was already an established artist with several albums to his credit, while Downes was just stating his career and getting recognized. This album shows the wonderful potential and talent, which brought Downes rapidly to the center of attention first on the local Jazz scene and soon after on the International scene, following him joining the ECMFind albums on this label roster.
There is no doubt that Downes is one of the most important representatives of the third generation of the British Jazz musicians, and with his unique talent he has a lot of creative work ahead of him and his early recording period is definitely worth being discovered, if one missed it at the time,
Overall, this is an important release in Downes’ discography, despite the fact it is one of his earliest recordings. The duo work is nothing short of brilliant and the music is quirky and interesting, displaying all the characteristics of the “Art of the Duo”, which deserves an honorable place in any serious British Jazz discography.
| | Updated: 12/04/2025Posted: 12/04/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ARILD ANDERSEN ~ THE ROSE WINDOW
INTUITION 71318 (Barcode: 608917131826) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is a spectacular album by the Norwegian Jazz bassist / composer Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist, recorded live in a classic piano trio setting with young and extremely talented Norwegian musicians: pianist Helge LienFind albums by this artist and drummer Gard NilssenFind albums by this artist. The trio performs six original compositions by Andersen and the album also includes an interview with Andersen. This album is the sixth volume in the "European Jazz Legends" series and of course Andersen deserves to be included in the distinguished group of European Jazz Giants. His countless recordings over time, mostly for the ECMFind albums on this label label, present a formidable tale of virtuosity, talent, elegance and untarnished good taste lasting now for almost five decades.
The music is mostly beautifully melodic, with typical melancholic and lyrical ambience that characterizes Norwegian Jazz, but one up tempo and highly dynamic piece is also included, emphasizing the diversity of Andersen´s milieu as a composer and of course as a brilliant bassist. The trio performs excellently together, with the two young musicians treating the Master with respect, supporting amicably his many solos, incorporated within the pieces present on this album. Andersen of course reciprocates with allowing them to play their respective solos as well.
Andersen´s performances are all stunning, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unaffected by time, which is a great blessing. He is incredibly sensitive both harmonically and rhythmically and every touch of the strings is always perfect in tone and time.
In many respects this album is an epitome of European Jazz; it is all about the relationship between sound and silence, the minimalism and understatement, the meaning of melody and its reflection in hundreds of years of tradition of Folklore and Classical Music, and countless other subtleties, that only few Jazz musicians outside of Europe are blessed with.
It gives me an immense pleasure to see Arild Andersen in great shape today and considering that we are only a few years apart, it gives me hope of at least few years into the future staying on top of things. Thank you Arild for all those years of musical pleasures and what a pity I missed you in Oslo recently – something we have to rectify at the nearest future.
Obviously this album is a must to all fans of Andersen´s musical universe and all connoisseurs of European Jazz at its best!
| | Updated: 13/08/2016Posted: 13/08/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | EIVIND AARSET ~ I. E.
JAZZLAND 602547307248 (Barcode: 602547307248) ~ NORWAY ~ Electronic & Ambient
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is the seventh album by Norwegian guitarist / composer Eivind AarsetFind albums by this artist, which comes three years after its predecessor released on the ECMFind albums on this label label, and sees Aarset returning to the Norwegian JazzlandFind albums on this label Recordings label, which released all his other albums so far. The album has a very long list of participants including a horn section, but the core of the musicians involved includes drummers / multi-instrumentalists Erland DahlenFind albums by this artist and Wetle HolteFind albums by this artist, bassist Audun ErlienFind albums by this artist and co-producer Jan BangFind albums by this artist. Italian vocalist Lorenzo Esposito FornasariFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album consists of nine original compositions (one being a three-part suite); six by Aarset and three co-composed by Aarset with (in turn) Holte, Fornasari or Bang.
Although Aarset is often described as a Jazz musician, with Nu Jazz being a much better labeling attempt, his music in general and certainly this album have absolutely nothing to do with the "conventional" concept of the Jazz idiom. Although there is an element of improvisation and intrinsic freedom embedded in his music, it moves in spheres different from Jazz, much closer to contemporary Classical Music, electronic and ambient music and even experimental Pop. Even if one has a very liberal and broad-spectrum approach to defining contemporary Jazz, as I hope I have, connecting this music to Jazz is both dishonest and completely inappropriate.
Having said that, just in order to keep things in the right perspective, this music is absolutely stunning in its raw beauty, aesthetic power and overwhelming emotional resonance. Aarset is anything but a conventional guitarist and in fact the term guitarist hardly even applies to his music-making. Although guitars are involved, they are only a source of sounds, which later are transposed, over-layered, multiplied and radically transfixed, all this using contemporary electronic sound devices, into a new universe of sonic reality. The only link to music, as we know it, is the use of percussive instruments, which create a wall of sound effect behind the layers of electronically manipulated guitar sounds.
It is difficult to speak about the conventional sense of melody and harmony in this music. Again, except for a rhythmic beat, everything else is fluid and shifting; bits of melodies come and go, replaced by electronic sound vistas, and suddenly moving into a new rhythmic pattern with another fractured melodic theme. And yet all this seemingly chaotic behavior not only makes perfect sense, but also touches the listener playing on the emotional strings of his deep soul as well as creating an abstract and complex intellectual experience of wonderful weirdness. Cold on the outside, as most Scandinavian music, with its lethargic minimalism and sluggish forward motion, this music is red-hot on the inside if only one dares to explore.
One word of warning: do not listen to this music while driving as it may take over the listener so completely that his presence in charge of a speeding car might just shift into a parallel reality.
This album is a treasure chest of superb musical moments, which is simply too good to be ignored. Make yourself a favor and get a copy ASAP, since my meager attempt to describe this music is simply infinitesimally less potent than the real deal. Hats off!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HILDEGUNN OISETH ~ TIME IS COMING
LOSEN 142 (Barcode: 7090025831423) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is the fourth album by the female Norwegian trumpeter Hildegunn OisethFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Espen BergFind albums by this artist, bassist Mats EilertsenFind albums by this artist and drummer Per Oddvar JohansenFind albums by this artist. Oiseth plays trumpet, flugelhorn and the bukkehorn (Billy goat horn, an instrument going as far back as the Vikings). The album presents eight original compositions, two each by Oiseth, Berg and Eilertsen, one by Johansen and the remaining one by yoiker (Google it up!) / musician Frode FjellheimFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the celebrated Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by the legendary Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist.
The music is a wonderful Scandinavian flavored European Jazz, heavily influenced by folkloristic touches and deeply reflective. A trumpet quartet is one of the greatest minimalistic Jazz entities, and when it is at its best, it has but little competition. Although the music was composed by five separate individuals, it is beautifully cohesive and creates an amalgamated atmosphere of unity and aesthetic beauty, elegance and consistency.
Oiseth´s playing is in many respects comparable to that of the Polish trumpet Master Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, emphasizing the expression rather than technical perfection. The slightly "dirty" tone, seemingly unstable during the vibrato notes, unites Oiseth with Stanko, which of course is meant as a compliment here. The bukkehorn parts, which sound a bit like oboe, are simply delightful and introduce another layer in the wondrous structure of this music.
But of course the three other members of the quartet also contribute invaluably; Berg is the melodic essence, Eilertsen holds all the elements together with his pulsations and Johansen ornaments the proceedings delicately and sparingly, like only best of drummers do.
This album offers the listener a spiritual experience, simply by overflowing all the senses, if allowed to do so. We can of course hear it, but it also touches our hearts, we can almost smell it, see the colors it paints in our mind and taste it in our mouth, not to mention the exhilaration of our intellect. It´s been a while since I heard music of such quality.
This album easily stands shoulder to shoulder with the best European Jazz achievements released by the top record labels, like ECMFind albums on this label, both as far as the music quality is concerned and of course also as far as the recording quality, which in this case comes from the same source. It´s great to have labels like LosenFind albums on this label Records producing music of such quality, which make us all both proud and happy.
| | Updated: 13/02/2016Posted: 13/02/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | LORENZO DE FINTI ~ WE LIVE HERE
LOSEN 162 (Barcode: 7090025831621) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is the fourth album by Swiss / Italian pianist / composer Lorenzo De FintiFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with Cuban trumpeter Gendrikson MenaFind albums by this artist (Diaz) and Italian rhythm section: bassist Stefano Dall`OraFind albums by this artist and drummer Marco CastiglioniFind albums by this artist. It presents nine original compositions co-credited to De Finti and Dall`Ora, collectively called "Suite for Jazz Quartet".
The music is modern acoustic Jazz, well within the mainstream idiom, based on lucid melodic themes, typical of European Jazz, beautifully performed by the quartet members, who are all highly professional players. The overall atmosphere is very ECMFind albums on this label like and enthusiasts of the Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist sound should have a field day with this album. The sound and recording quality are simply outstanding. Although there is plenty of European melancholy and fragile balance in this music, I personally fail to hear the alluded connection to Classical music; this is purely a Jazz album from start to finish.
The instrumental work is consistently excellent, especially the trumpet parts, which display a remarkable clarity and sharpness. The music is dominated by the piano, but comes truly alive when the entire quartet is performing. The rhythm section is also exceptional, with the bass being a full partner in the melodic presentation and playing some breathtaking solo parts and the drums, as delicate and compassionate as they are, are unusually inventive and sophisticated at the same time.
Personally the best moments of this album happen when the musicians let go of the composed patterns and improvise spontaneously, albeit briefly, but of course this is a matter of personal preferences. As much as I love the aesthetic beauty of this music, for me it lacks the element of surprise and unexpectedness, which I consider as essential ingredients of the idiom.
But to put things in the right perspective, this is definitely a wonderful album for connoisseurs of mainstream melodic modern Jazz and should make most Jazz fans around the globe very happy. For people with high-end Hi-Fi equipment this is sonic heaven on earth!
| | Updated: 09/08/2016Posted: 09/08/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KARIN KROG / JOHN SURMAN ~ BLUESAND
MEANTIME 09 (Barcode: 7051070000097) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999
This is wonderful duo album by Norwegian vocalist Karin KrogFind albums by this artist and British multi-instrumentalist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, one of many albums they recorded together since their first meeting on stage in 1978, mostly released on the ECMFind albums on this label label and MeantimeFind albums on this label Records, like this one, which is owned by Krog. The album presents twelve original compositions, co-credited to them both with lyrics by Krog. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist.
The music is a wonderful amalgam of Jazz, Blues, Electronics, Nordic moods and above else elegance and good taste, which results in a unique listening experience. Krog sings lyrics and uses electronic devices and loops and Surman as usual switches between soprano and baritone saxes, clarinets, piano and synthesizers, creating a rich tapestry of sounds and feelings.
Each and every one of the compositions is a gem, combining Krog’s vocals with layers of instrumental improvisations by Surman, and although completely coherent as a whole the compositions present a diversity of musical capsules, each and every one as if originating in a different universe.
Overall this is a masterly conceived and executed piece of music in the “Art of the Duo” idiom, which exemplifies the power of minimalism. In his work with Krog, Surman always displays a different personality than on his solo or ensemble works as a leader, showing the gentler, almost romantic facet of his musical charisma.
For British Jazz enthusiasts, this album offers some of Surman’s best work, Norwegian Jazz fans need no introductions and the album is simply a sweet reminder of how superb music can become in hands if intelligent and highly talented musicians. Not to be missed and every bit as great as it was at the time of its release.
| | Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 13/04/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | OREGON ~ 1974
MOOSICUS 1218 (Barcode: 885513121820) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2021
This is an archival live album by the legendary American quartet OregonFind albums by this artist, recorded in Germany by Radio Bremen. It presents the original lineup of the quartet with guitarist Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist, oboe and English horn player Paul McCandlessFind albums by this artist, bassist Glen MooreFind albums by this artist and percussionist / sitar player Collin WalcottFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents nine tracks, all composed by Towner, most of which are well over ten minutes in duration.
Oregon were undoubtedly one of the most eclectic, unique and revolutionary cross-genre American ensembles, which managed to combine Jazz improvisations with World Music, strongly influenced by Indian music, Classical Music, Avant-Garde and New Age and even Psychedelic and Space elements. The four members of the band were virtuosi on their respective instruments and their collective performances, which I managed to hear in person many times over the years, were simply magical.
Not surprisingly, Oregon achieved acclaim and Artistic recognition predominantly in Europe, where they toured extensively. Following the early years spent with VanguardFind albums on this label Records in the US, they later released their albums on several European labels, including ECMFind albums on this label, IntuitionFind albums on this label and CAM JazzFind albums on this label. The members of Oregon recorded and performed also as solo artists and members of other ensembles.
The music on this album is a wonderful document of the early period of Oregon, and offers a relaxed environment, which inspires the musicians to improvise intensively and extensively on the beautiful themes, which is much different to the same music appearing on the early studio albums. For Jazz-World Fusion enthusiasts this is some of the finest and most sophisticated embodiment of the genre. The enthusiastic audience seems to be well aware of the greatness of the hour.
Overall, this is a superb document of the Artistry represented by one of the finest American Jazz-World Fusion ensembles ever, captured in an ideal aura created by attentive and enthusiastic audience. For the many Oregon followers, this is an absolute must and a true revelation.
| | Updated: 27/12/2022Posted: 27/12/2022 | CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MANFRED SCHOOF QUINTET ~ LIVE IN BREMEN 1978
MOOSICUS 1316 (Barcode: 885513131621) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2022
This is an archival live album by the great German Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Manfred SchoofFind albums by this artist, one of the Godfathers of the modern German / European Jazz. The 2CD album was recorded by Radio Bremen and features Schoof’s second quintet, with bass clarinetist Michel PilzFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Rainer BruninghausFind albums by this artist, bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, eight of which are extended pieces lasting between ten and twenty minutes. Six of the tracks are original compositions by Schoof, two are by Hubner and one is co-composed by Schoof with two other musicians. Bruninghaus is familiar as a member of Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist´s bands and the Lenz / Hubner rhythm section was, among others, also the first rhythm section of Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist’s quintet.
This quintet recorded three albums for the JAPOFind albums on this label label, a subsidiary of ECMFind albums on this label, between 1976 and 1979 (“ScalesFind albums with this title”, “Light LinesFind albums with this title” and “HorizonsFind albums with this title”), reissued in 2009 as the Box Set “ResonanceFind albums with this title”, with Dutch keyboardist Jasper van`t HofFind albums by this artist on the first two albums and Bruninghaus on the third. Much of the material on this live album originates from these albums, but gets an expanded treatment herein.
The music is absolutely Godly, a beautiful amalgam of melodic, almost ambient themes with widely improvised Free parts by the bass clarinet, trumpet and piano on top, a brilliant example of the European Jazz aesthetics at its best. The music develops slowly and takes the listener on a hypnotic carpet ride, which is delight incarnate. This was definitely one of the best European Jazz quintets of the late 1970s, and this live album is a perfect companion to the three studio albums mentioned above.
Overall, this is a brilliant European Jazz from the late 1970s, with first-class musicians, performing exquisite music, which remains as relevant today as it was at the time. Lovers of bass clarinet will find this jaw-dropping and absolutely essential, but all European Jazz lovers should find this music irresistible. Those German radio stations have so much incredible music in their vaults, and we can be only grateful for labels like MoosicusFind albums on this label for bringing it out on records. A must!
| | Updated: 26/06/2025Posted: 21/06/2025 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL NAURA ~ CALL
MPS 4029759097365 (Barcode: 4029759097365) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2014
This is a wonderful album by German pianist / composer Michael NauraFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with vibraphonist Wolfgang SchluterFind albums by this artist, bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe NayFind albums by this artist. The album comprises of eight original compositions, all by Naura.
This album finds Naura in a transition period between his earlier days as one of the German Jazz scene pioneers, when he played mainly Bebop and Hard Bop, moving boldly into the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom as one of its pioneering representatives in Europe. He plays electric piano on this album, which blends wonderfully with the vibraphone, creating a very unique ambience. Supported by a superb rhythm section of Weber and Nay the two soloists are able to weave long atmospheric melody lines and contemplative phrases. In retrospect this music sounds remarkably fresh and inviting and its legendary status is fully justified.
The cooperation between Naura and Schluter, which started in the 1950s, continued for several decades and produced some of the finest German Jazz music in many different settings. Their later recordings for ECMFind albums on this label are especially noteworthy, some of them in my favorite Jazz & Poetry setting. Schluter is just one of many extraordinary vibraphonists hailing from Germany, where this instrument seems to be more popular in the Jazz idiom than in any other European country.
It is the beautiful blend of four individual voices that creates the charming atmosphere, which in time made this album an icon of early European Fusion and the original vinyl album into a highly sought after collectors´ item. This reissue enables new listeners to get acquainted with this important and aesthetically outstanding music, an opportunity not to be missed!
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 12/06/2018Posted: 02/02/2016 | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HANS KOLLER ~ KUNSTKOPFINDIANER
MPS 602498134399 (Barcode: 602498134399) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2003
Austrian saxophonist, composer and bandleader Hans KollerFind albums by this artist was one of the most important European jazz musicians and one of the forefathers of the European modern jazz movement. This is his most legendary album and for years an impossible to find rarity among collectors. The quintet includes some of the most important European jazz players: German pianist Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist (who is also one of the European jazz giants), Polish violin virtuoso Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist (whose untimely death at a very young age prevented him from achieving the status of the greatest jazz violinist ever), superb Polish drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and Austrian bass genius Adelhard RoidingerFind albums by this artist.
Together they play some of the best European jazz ever recorded, which can be described as free melodic sketches and structures. The music was composed by the quintet members (as each of them is also a gifted composer in addition to being an exceptional instrumentalist) and is full of passion, lofty inspiration and pleasurable sophistication. The German MPSFind albums on this label label, which was active in the 1960’s and 1970’s, was the first and most important independent European jazz label (before ECMFind albums on this label, EnjaFind albums on this label, SteeplechaseFind albums by this artist and scores of others), setting incredible high standards both for the musical contents and the revolutionary audiophile sound-recording quality. This album is essential to every jazz enthusiast on earth!
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 28/05/2025Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALBERT MANGELSDORFF QUARTET ~ NEVER LET IT END
MPS 602517060029 (Barcode: 602517060029) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by German trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, recorded with his all German quartet, which includes some of the finest European Jazz musicians active at the time: saxophonist Heinz SauerFind albums by this artist, bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, four composed by Mangelsdorff, two by Sauer and one by Hubner. The album was produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist and his original liner notes (albeit only in German) are included on the album’s artwork.
Mangelsdorff, and his brother Emil MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, were the pillars of the modern German Jazz scene, which developed rapidly after WWII, both in West and East Germany, peaking in the late 1960s. Germany developed in time as an epicenter of the continental Jazz scene, with huge number of excellent musicians, brilliant club and festival scene and the strongest music recording industry, with legendary labels like MPSFind albums on this label, ECMFind albums on this label, EnjaFind albums on this label and many others, which produced the finest modern Jazz recordings in the world, leaving the US scene far beyond from that time on.
Albert Mangelsdorff was one of the most vital figures on that scene and his ever changing groups pushed the Jazz limits at all times. His absolutely unique virtuosity on the trombone changed the role of that instrument to an equally important position in the Jazz ensemble as trumpet and saxophone. I was lucky to meet him and see / hear him play and record on numerous occasions and he always left an enormous impression as a person and a musician.
His recorded legacy, which he managed to amass very prolifically, is one of the most important individual European Jazz legacies, which this album proudly represents. The music here presents a perfect amalgam of the Jazz tradition and the rapid development towards modern and Free Jazz.
Overall, this is one of the most interesting Jazz albums in European Jazz, despite the fact that it is only known by relatively very few Jazz listeners. I have owned a copy since day one and listened to this album countless times in the almost fifty years since it was released, and each and every time I managed to discover something new in the music. I can only hope some more listeners will discover it one day, although admittedly it is quite difficult to find a copy.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 20/07/2024Posted: 20/07/2024 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLACKBIRD ~ BLACKBIRD
MULTIKULTI MPJ 012 (Barcode: 5907796319710) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015
This is the debut album by the young Polish Jazz quintet BlackBirdFind albums by this artist, which comprises of trumpeter Pawel SurmanFind albums by this artist, guitarist Michal WalczakFind albums by this artist, pianist Michal RoratFind albums by this artist, bassist Bartek BednarekFind albums by this artist and US drummer Frank ParkerFind albums by this artist. Veteran vibraphonist Bernard MaseliFind albums by this artist appears as a guest artist on a couple of tracks. The album presents seven original compositions (one of which is repeated four times), four by Walczak, two by Rorat and one by Bednarek. The album was recorded live and has a very good sound quality.
The music is dominated by the sound of the electric guitar and immediately falls under the typical Fusion imagery. The combination of lead guitar and trumpet, which was favored by early Jazz-Rock / Fusion artists, like Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist and his Eleventh HouseFind albums by this artist ensemble for example, was pretty dormant lately and the attempt by BlackBird to bring it back is very effective. With the guitar / trumpet lead balanced by the acoustic piano and the electric bass and drums pulsating vigorously, the overall sound of the quintet floats somewhere between Fusion and the Scandinavian ECMFind albums on this label sound, which of course turns it immediately into a very likeable piece of music.
Once we have established that the album sounds great the question of course arises as to its musical contents, which is definitely not on the same level as the sound. The melodies are rather simplistic and a bit repetitive, which makes the album to sound like one continuous piece of music with very little diversity. Even the attempt to break the monotony by repeating the theme song four times does not help much. It´s not that the music is bad or anything, it just sort of stays in one place all the time. But of course this is only my personal opinion and others may find it completely misguided.
The personal performances by the quintet members are all quite adequate, although the guitar is definitely too loud and aggressive. For me Rorat delivers the most impressive solos, even if he is the most introvert and timid player herein. His piano strokes are a true joy throughout.
Overall this is a pleasant Fusion album, which many Fusion fans might find attractive and which sounds absolutely divine, but is hardly a brainer. Since it is a debut effort, things will probably improve with their next release, which I am impatiently waiting for already.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ TWET (POLISH JAZZ VOL.39)
MUZA 0939 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2004
This monumental album by Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist in one of the most important releases on the legendary Polish Jazz series, which means it´s a truly stellar performance. It captures perfectly the soul of Stanko´s 1970s Free Jazz period, which culminated just a year later with the recording of the legendary "BalladynaFind albums with this title" album for ECMFind albums on this label, in almost identical lineup. Similarly to his Mentor, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Stanko always tried to work with musicians from other countries, even when the bureaucracy of the Socialist regime made it quite difficult. Like Komeda before him, he worked with musicians from the neighbor Scandinavian countries, finding a close friend and partner in the free-spirited Finnish legendary drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. Young Polish saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist was given the position previously held by such giant musicians as Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, which testifies to Stanko´s high confidence in him. The quartet was completed by the great American bassist Peter WarrenFind albums by this artist, who lived at the time in Europe and participated actively in the incredible European Jazz scene of that period. The album includes five pieces, credited to all four musicians and obviously largely improvised, with some limited preconceived melody lines barely audible under the surface. The unedited, "live in the studio" recording perfectly reflects the atmosphere of the session, with Free blowing and intense interplays, enthusiastically encouraged by Vesala´s howls and cries in the background. This is definitely a magic moment, captured for posterity on this recording, which has very few parallels, and therefore is so incredibly important. Stanko´s fans will of course find plenty of his superb trumpet performances here, which are second to none. Any European Jazz connoisseur, Polish Jazz enthusiast or Stanko aficionado must absolutely have this album!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ HABANERA
NOT TWO 712 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000
This is the 4th album by the Polish Jazz ensemble Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, which consists of pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Of the eight tracks on this album five were composed by Wasilewski, one by Kurkiewicz, another by the Polish Jazz legend Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, who employed the trio as his rhythm section for several years and finally the title track by Spanish composer Miguel BlancoFind albums by this artist.
Recorded just before the trio recorded the three seminal albums for the ECMFind albums on this label label with Stanko (as his sidemen), this album is definitely a turning point, which marks their arrival at the level of musical champions, paralleled only by very few other Jazz musicians in general and piano trios in particular. This was also their last album to be released on a Polish label, as they were about to be enlisted to the ECM roster as a trio in the days that followed.
Personally I love this transitory album and in many respects it is my favorite album by the trio, as it finds them completely mature and fully developed on one hand and still enthusiastic, hungry and burning on the other. As a result this album includes some of their best performances, which are full of elegance, virtuosity and sophistication, but at the same time are more relaxed and less constrained than their future work. Of course these are marvelous and devilishly talented musicians, so everything they do tends to be both perfect and beautiful, but these last glimpses of their youth and innocence are truly precious to me.
Whichever way one looks at this album, it remains a milestone of Polish Jazz, a superb opener for the 21st Century European Jazz and a must in any decent record collection. Since the ensemble managed to become an integral part of the history of Jazz piano trio, this album becomes an essential piece of the infinite puzzle called Jazz, which we love so much. Essential stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | NILS PETTER MOLVAER ~ SWITCH
OKEH 888837477420 (Barcode: 888837477420) ~ NORWAY ~ Smooth Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
Norwegian award winning trumpeter / composer Nils Petter MolvaerFind albums by this artist continues his stream of releases with this album recorded with fellow Norwegian musicians: drummer Erland DahlenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Geir SundstolFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Morten QvenildFind albums by this artist and sound engineer / programmer Jan Marius AareskjoldFind albums by this artist. The album includes ten original compositions, all (assumingly) by Molvaer. Following his association with the ECMFind albums on this label label, first with the excellent band MasqualeroFind albums by this artist and then as a solo artist recording two albums, he left ECM in pursue of a wider exposure and commercial success.
The music is an amalgam of Jazz trumpet and electronics, Rock and ambient influences. The muted trumpet sound, derived from the late period Miles DavisFind albums by this artist sound, the melancholic and atmospheric melodic themes, typical of Scandinavian music and the ambient electronic soundscapes create an overall slick mixture, which is easily accessible by a wide range of audiences, aged between fifteen and eighty five, predominantly female.
This album is quite similar to several Molvaer´s preceding albums and it is difficult to see any real progress or direction where this music is going. Although in the early days of his musical career Molvaer seemed to have a great potential and was seen as an upcoming force in European Jazz, his later career pushed him towards the role of a trumpet playing Kenny GFind albums by this artist, with a slightly more ambitious attitude.
Of course there is nothing wrong with this kind of music per se, and with enjoying it. Personally I find it "much ado about nothing", but what do I know? I really tried to like it this time, but alas it is simply boring.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PABLO HELD ~ LINEAGE
PIROUET 3094 (Barcode: 4260041180949) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is the 8th album by the German pianist / composer Pablo HeldFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Robert LandfermannFind albums by this artist and drummer Jonas BurgwinkelFind albums by this artist, which marks the 10th Anniversary of the trio’s existence and recording career. The album presents eight tracks, all original compositions by the leader.
The music is excellent modern European Jazz, based on solid compositions, with a melodic core but a lot of freedom and odd meters, as appropriate for the occasion. The trio is perfectly synchronized and the music flows briskly, despite the fact that the rhythmic structures are quite complex and require patience and attention in order to be followed.
Held is a very gifted pianist with a wide array of technical abilities, who is able to switch moods and atmospheres on the flow, which is perhaps not very easy to follow by a less trained ear, but highly effective. The rhythm section is able to support these uneven changes in mood and tempi with ease and stands behind the leader faithfully for the entire duration.
European Jazz followers will notice that the entire aesthetics of the music and the trio’s performances are very close to the Scandinavian school and the early ECMFind albums on this label sound, which is not explicitly mimicked, but definitely recognizable, which should make the connoisseurs of these genres very happy.
Overall, this is a very good piano trio album, with a modern and quite open attitude to Jazz, almost Free but not quite, which is far from being easily likeable, but offers high quality musical experience, rewarding the attentive listener. Definitely not music for cocktail parties ;)
| | Updated: 11/09/2024Posted: 30/08/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ PEYOTL - WITKACY
POLONIA 037/038 (Barcode: 5904542687307) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1984 - 1986 Released: 2004
This is probably the most significant recording by Polish trumpeter virtuoso / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, surely at least among his Polish recordings before his later ECMFind albums on this label period. Following Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, Stanko switched to Jazz-Rock Fusion (albeit a decade later) and his 1980s output with his FreelectronicFind albums by this artist ensemble is radically different from the Free Jazz he played in the 1970s. This double album consists of one studio recording and one live recording, both expressing Stanko´s power as a performer and a composer to the max. The studio album, which was compiled over a period of two years, presents music composed by Stanko at the period when he was experimenting with hallucinogens and was deeply influenced by the writings of the Polish mystic / philosopher / Avant-Garde artist WitkacyFind albums by this artist (Stanislaw Ignacy Witkiewicz), who was also an early experimenter with drugs. Text excerpts from Witkacy´s book about drugs are recited and closely incorporated into the fascinating music, which floats over a repetitious hypnotic vamp and layers of electronic keyboard sounds. The highlight of this album is undoubtedly the inclusion of a second genius trumpet player, Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, who exchanges licks with Stanko in a brilliant manner. The fact that Stanko invited Przybielski to participate in this recording is a testimony of how highly he regarded his unbelievable talent. Other musicians participating in these recordings are: keyboardists Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist and Tadeusz SudnikFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist, bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist, and drummer Zbigniew BarysiakFind albums by this artist. The recitation is by the great actor Marek WalczewskiFind albums by this artist. In retrospect the fact that this music was recorded almost 30 years ago seem incomprehensible, as it so much more advanced that almost any music done these days. Stanko´s genius definitely reaches here one of its great peaks, which luckily for us was captured for posterity. Sadly this album is probably little known by his worldwide fan base, as it is very difficult to find, which of course is a shame. If one must own just one Stanko album, this is it, at least as far as I´m concerned. Absolute unadulterated genius!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LIVE AT THE MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL 1987
POLONIA 254 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2000
This live recording at the Montreux Jazz Festival is the last of the glorious 1980s albums by the polish trumpet virtuoso / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and his FreelectronicFind albums by this artist ensemble, here consisting of keyboardists Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist and Tadeusz SudnikFind albums by this artist and bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist. Stanko is in top form and in a great mood, which is evident by the happy atmosphere captured herein. His trumpet soars to incredible heights and the brilliant improvisations chase one another. In retrospect this is a perfect moment captured for posterity, just before the ever-changing Stanko would embark on yet another musical journey with the onset of the 1990s. The 1980s Stanko´s Jazz-Rock period was about to be abandoned and replaced by a return to the Jazz tradition and the new (again) Stanko, which would capture worldwide audiences with his ECMFind albums on this label recordings. But the 1980s period firmly remains as one of Stanko´s most productive and expressive periods and this album is an integral part of that legacy. A must to every Stanko fan!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ TWET (POLISH JAZZ VOL.39)
POWER BROS 33860 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 1986
This monumental album by Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist in one of the most important releases on the legendary Polish Jazz series, which means it´s a truly stellar performance. It captures perfectly the soul of Stanko´s 1970s Free Jazz period, which culminated just a year later with the recording of the legendary "BalladynaFind albums with this title" album for ECMFind albums on this label, in almost identical lineup. Similarly to his Mentor, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Stanko always tried to work with musicians from other countries, even when the bureaucracy of the Socialist regime made it quite difficult. Like Komeda before him, he worked with musicians from the neighbor Scandinavian countries, finding a close friend and partner in the free-spirited Finnish legendary drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. Young Polish saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist was given the position previously held by such giant musicians as Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, which testifies to Stanko´s high confidence in him. The quartet was completed by the great American bassist Peter WarrenFind albums by this artist, who lived at the time in Europe and participated actively in the incredible European Jazz scene of that period. The album includes five pieces, credited to all four musicians and obviously largely improvised, with some limited preconceived melody lines barely audible under the surface. The unedited, "live in the studio" recording perfectly reflects the atmosphere of the session, with Free blowing and intense interplays, enthusiastically encouraged by Vesala´s howls and cries in the background. This is definitely a magic moment, captured for posterity on this recording, which has very few parallels, and therefore is so incredibly important. Stanko´s fans will of course find plenty of his superb trumpet performances here, which are second to none. Any European Jazz connoisseur, Polish Jazz enthusiast or Stanko aficionado must absolutely have this album!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARIA PIA DE VITO / JOHN TAYLOR / RALPH TOWNER ~ VERSO
PROVOCATEUR 1023 (Barcode: 5038491102328) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2000
Italian singer / composer / arranger Maria Pia De VitoFind albums by this artist, British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and American guitarist / composer Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist met by accident, but we all know that some of the best things in music (and not only in music) happen quite by accident. Born in Naples, De Vito is classically trained but spends most of her time on the Jazz scene, both locally in Italy and also all over Europe, performing and recording with some of the best Jazz musicians. This is her fifth album.
Taylor and Towner need no introduction; both with extensive careers behind them and both being among the most highly esteemed contemporary Jazz personalities. Together the trio presents everything that characterizes European Jazz: sophistication, subtlety, intelligence and lyricism.
The all-original music they perform was written by Taylor and Towner, with De Vito contributing lyrics to some of the tracks. She sings both lyrics and vocalese, with exceptionally clear voice and unique expressionism, which is both enchanting and captivating.
The music moves constantly between solo, duo and trio parts, changing moods and tempi. As much of contemporary European Jazz, the music fluctuates somewhere between Jazz and contemporary Classical, making the attempt to label it completely redundant. It is simply great music, which is performed with exquisite taste and virtuosity. Since the album is entirely acoustic, it is of course low-key and requires attentive listening to capture all the beautiful little details. The superb recording quality helps a lot in this case and listeners addicted to the “ECMFind albums on this label sound” will love this recording unconditionally. A must to all lovers of vocal Jazz and contemporary European Jazz.
| | Updated: 03/07/2020Posted: | CD 1 HDCD Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDY SHEPPARD / JOHN PARRICELLI ~ P.S.
PROVOCATEUR 1034 (Barcode: 5038491103424) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003
British saxophonist / composer Andy SheppardFind albums by this artist and his partner guitarist / composer John ParricelliFind albums by this artist are both household names on the contemporary British Jazz scene. They have collaborated many times before recording this duo album, which documents perfectly their mutual admiration and respect for each other’s talents. They both contributed equally from their respective songbooks and added one co-composed tune to round things up. The music is very intimate, as appropriate for a duo recording, with mostly lyrical content. The cooperation and interplay is perfect in every sense and the tempi vary from classic Jazz, Latin and even African rhythmic patterns. Parricelli plays both the acoustic and electric guitars and Sheppard plays both the tenor and soprano saxophones, so between the two of them there is certainly enough variety to keep the listener hooked and enchanted. The overall atmosphere is similar to many ECMFind albums on this label recordings, where silence and space are equally important as are the actual sounds played. Enthusiasts of that kind of subdued and restrained emotionality will absolutely love this album. Definitely worth checking out!
| | | CD 1 Digipak HDCD Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ IT`S LATER THAN YOU THINK
PROVOCATEUR 1037 (Barcode: 5038491103721) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2006
British singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist has been my favorite Jazz singer for almost 40 years now, ever since I heard her performing in the late 1960s in the midst of the burgeoning British Jazz scene at the time. I always followed her extraordinary career closely and of course collected all her recordings, which in retrospect constitute a massive body of marvelous music. At the peak of the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s – 1970s she sang with the best: Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist and many others, contributing not only her extraordinary vocal performances but also her talent as a lyricist. With the decline of the local scene she continued on the European scene, both as a soloist and with the trio AzimuthFind albums by this artist (with her husband, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist). She is an enormously versatile performer, feeling at ease in any environment, from classic Jazz standards to Avant-Garde explorations. I always found her to be the most sensitive, highly musical and open-minded interpreter of both the music and the lyrics, which turn everything she touches into High Art. Happily for the music lovers, her talent and abilities seem to be untouched by time and she’s able to deliver her best up to this very day, which is well documented on this album as well. Accompanied by the splendid NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist (Northern German Radio Big Band resident in Hamburg), one of the best Jazz Big Bands in the world today, Norma delivers a wonderful set of songs, all brilliantly arranged by Colin TownsFind albums by this artist, who also conducted the band. The choice of material is fascinating and quite challenging as well, as Norma performs songs written by such dissimilar composers as Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Randy NewmanFind albums by this artist and Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist. Her highly personal delivery and the beautiful arrangements metamorphose these songs into completely new musical vistas, to the delight of any sensitive listener. The Big Band is used intelligently and skillfully, to serve as a perfect companion to her vocal delivery, without being overwhelming, in spite of its inherent might. The musicians are all virtuosi and highly experienced soloists, which is clearly evident from the instrumental solos, and include such renowned Jazz musicians as saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and pianist (and my dear friend of Polish origin) Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The recording and sound quality are stunning and resemble the sonic excellence of other European labels like ECMFind albums on this label Records. For me this is a great example of a perfect album – the music, the musicians and a voice of a Diva – what else can one ask for? Essential food for the soul.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | AALTONEN, HELASVUO, HAUTA-AHO, VESALA / EDWARD VESALA ENSEMBLE ~ JAZZ LIISA VOL. 17 & VOL. 18
SVART 100 (Barcode: 6430065583516) ~ FINLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2018
The two "Jazzstudio" broadcasts compiled on this CD focus on the iconic figure of drummer / composer / bandleader and Godfather of modern Finnish Jazz, Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, who is probably the most famous Finnish Jazz musician outside of his native country. Born in 1945, Vesala was active on the local Jazz scene since the late 1960s and until his tragically premature death in 1999 at the ridiculous young age of 54. His premiere recording was the little known album "NykysuomalaistaFind albums with this title" (Contemporary Finnish) from 1969 and the full debut "NanaFind albums with this title" came a year later. In 1972 he took part in his first ECMFind albums on this label album, the Jan Garbarek´s "TriptykonFind albums with this title" and soon after recorded his debut album for the label "Nan MadolFind albums with this title". He recorded five more albums for ECM and also participated on albums by Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. On the whole he left an impressive recorded legacy, including releases on his own LeoFind albums on this label Records.
The first session presents the Edward Vesala trio, with bassist Teppo Hauta-AhoFind albums by this artist and pianist Esa HelasvuoFind albums by this artist on one track composed by him and then with saxophonist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist (who replaces Helasvuo) on two tracks, both composed by Vesala. Whereas the first track is still pretty conventional, the two other tracks are mostly freely improvised and explode with energy and spontaneous exploration as appropriate for Avant-garde at its best.
The second session presents the Edward Vesala EnsembleFind albums by this artist, a collection of top Finnish Jazz improvisers at the time: trumpeter Simo SalminenFind albums by this artist, trombonist Mircea StanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Juhani Aaltonen, Paroni PaakkunainenFind albums by this artist and Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist, bassist Teppo Hauta-Aho, electric bassist Make LievonenFind albums by this artist and Antero HonkanenFind albums by this artist who added some electronic effects on one track. This lineup is very similar to the lineup that recorded the a.m. ECM debut a few months after this session was recorded. They play three stacks, all by Vesala, all of which were later recorded for that album. In addition a short interview with Vesala in also present, in Finnish of course, which makes it sadly accessible only to Finnish speaking audience. (A transcript in English would have been most welcome).
The music is spectacular and breathtaking, a true Avant-garde masterpiece combining composed and group-improvised parts, mystic Nordic moods and brilliant performances by these excellent musicians. These versions of the material are quite different from the recorded versions, which makes this session especially valuable.
These two sessions are some of the most important documents of Finnish Jazz and are definitely among the strongest releases in the entire Jazz Liisa series.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for European Jazz connoisseurs this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 19/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BROTZMANN / AALTONEN / KOWALD / VESALA ~ HOT LOTTA
SVART 253 (Barcode: 6430065584575) ~ FINLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the iconic album by the German / Finnish Free Jazz quartet, a one time cooperation formed as a result of a Finnish tour organized by the Goethe Institut for the two German musicians: saxophonist Peter BrotzmannFind albums by this artist and bassist Peter KowaldFind albums by this artist, joined by Finnish Free Jazz pioneers: saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. The original album, which offered just four tracks, is remastered and expanded by a sensational and previously unavailable live radio session, adding five tracks and almost doubling the original album´s playing time. All the music is of course original, and although credited to individual quartet members, it is mostly spontaneously created by the players.
At the time of the recording the German musicians were already Free Jazz "veterans", with the German Avant-Garde already flourishing for a few good years, and Brotzmann gaining already a legendary status with his brazing innovations and complete disregard of conventions. Aaltonen and Vesala started to play Free Jazz just about a couple years earlier, recording the first Finnish Free Jazz album "NanaFind albums with this title". When the tour and the recording of this album happened, Vesala already recorded the "TriptyconFind albums with this title" album with Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist for the ECMFind albums on this label label and a year later would record "Nan MadolFind albums with this title", his first ECM release.
The music is, as expected, absolutely stunning and completely fresh, sounding better than most Free Jazz played five decades later, which is not able to reproduce the spontaneity, group improvisation and telepathic communication between the musicians. Aaltonen´s flute parts are especially interesting, as flute is relatively rarely used in Improvised Music, surely at the time. The unusual double saxophone lineup is also a factor in making this album so outstanding.
Overall this is a quintessential piece of European Avant-Garde / Free Jazz history, which is sadly little known due to the obscurity of this album, which reaches astronomical prices on the vinyl market these days. Therefore this reissue is an absolute marvel and again kudos is due to the SvartFind albums on this label label for their amazing work in keeping the Cultural legacy alive.
Obviously this is an absolute must to all European Free Jazz connoisseurs anywhere on this planet. Essential listening!
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 28/06/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | EDWARD VESALA TRIO ~ NANA
SVART 421 (Barcode: 6430065585183) ~ FINLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the iconic debut album by the Godfather of modern Finnish Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist and his trio with Finnish saxophonist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and Norwegian bassist Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, four by Aaltonen, one each by Vesala and Andersen and one co-composed by all three members of the trio. Finnish trumpeter Mike KoskinenFind albums by this artist, who was supposed to play on the album, fell ill and the recording went down in history as a trio affair.
This was the first ever Finnish Free Jazz album and except for the little known album "NykysuomalaistaFind albums with this title" (Contemporary Finnish) recorded a year earlier, on which Vesala and Aaltonen appeared only on the B side of the LP, this was the debut full album for both of them.
The music is typical of the early European Free Jazz wave, which exploded on both sides of the Iron Curtain by the late 1960s. Vesala enlisted Anderson (who was a few months younger than him) to play with the trio as Anderson had already gained experience playing Free Jazz with Don CherryFind albums by this artist and others. The cooperation proved to be of crucial importance for Vesala, as it led to him being introduced to Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist. In 1972 Vesala took part in his first ECMFind albums on this label album, the Jan Garbarek´s "TriptykonFind albums with this title" and soon after recorded his debut album for the label "Nan MadolFind albums with this title". He recorded five more albums for ECM and also participated on albums by Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist released by the label.
In retrospect, the album is not only a highly important document of Finnish / European Jazz, but also a piece of music that still sounds vibrant and exciting, in spite of the fact that it was recorded five decades earlier.
This remastered edition is the first ever appearance of this historic album on CD, and considering its immense importance, it is an absolute must for any serious European Free Jazz connoisseur!
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 26/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | AGA TAURA CONFAB / ENRICO RAVA ~ EL CONVIDADO
SVART / MONDO 381 (Barcode: 6430065589419) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2019
In June of 1975 Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist recorded his debut album for the prestigious German ECMFind albums on this label label, entitled "The Pilgrim And The StarsFind albums with this title", which upon its release later that year kick-started his solo career. The album was recorded with an international lineup of ECM stable musicians: American guitarists John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist (who also released his ECM debut the same year) and a marvelous Scandinavian rhythm section consisting of Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist.
A trumpet virtuoso and an exceptionally gifted composer, Rava established himself on the international scene during the entire decade earlier, playing and recording with the elite of Avant-Garde Jazz players of that period both in Europe and in America, which included Steve LacyFind albums by this artist, Roswell RuddFind albums by this artist, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist, Don CherryFind albums by this artist, Argentinean Gato BarbieriFind albums by this artist (during his stint in Italy), Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and others. By the early 1970s Rava embraced a more melodic approach to Jazz and started to cooperate with Fusion musicians, a path common to many of his European contemporaries. This led to his participation in the recording of the seminal Jazz-Rock opera "Escalator Over The HillFind albums with this title" by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist as well as the recording of the little known album for the legendary German MPSFind albums on this label label called "Katcharpari RavaFind albums with this title", where he played vis-à-vis Abercrombie and which, when first heard by ECM owner Manfred EicherFind albums by this artist, led to inviting them both to record for ECM in the first place.
What led Enrico Rava to take part in the recording of the obscure album you are holding in your hand, which took place in December of 1975 in Buenos Aires, the Capital of Argentina, you ask? Well it turns out Rava had some family in Buenos Aires, which he was visiting at the time and which is hardly surprising considering the fact that most of Argentina´s inhabitants are descendants of European ethnic groups, with more than 55% of them having Italian origins. Therefore being Italian and having family in Argentina is a highly probable outcome. Quite accidently, Rava already visited Buenos Aires almost a decade earlier, when playing there with the Steve Lacy quartet. A performance by that quartet recorded in Buenos Aires in November of 1966 was released as the album "The Forest And The ZooFind albums with this title" on the ESPFind albums on this label label.
The rest of the story, however, is pure Jazz "improvisation". Upon learning that Rava is in town, local Jazz aficionados swiftly decided to size the day and hook him up with local musician and record an album. It is difficult to know today if Rava and the Argentineans realized that he was already under ECM contract and they needed to ask Eicher to give them permission to make this recording, which was highly unlikely he would. But considering South American attitude towards rules and regulations nobody probably cared too much about it, which of course in retrospect should make us thankful.
The team selected to accompany Rava, named as "Aga Taura ConfabFind albums by this artist", included three Argentinean Jazz musicians: pianist Fernando GelbardFind albums by this artist, bassist Adalberto CevascoFind albums by this artist and drummer Nestor AstaritaFind albums by this artist and an Argentinean Folk percussionist Farias GómezFind albums by this artist, who also contributed vocalese parts. Although less experienced and with no international exposure at the time, they stood their ground formidably and performed alongside Rava without any inferiority complex. Of the five tunes on the album, four are performed by the quintet, where Gelbard plays the Fender Rhodes electric piano, and one is a duet consisting of Rava and Gelbard, who plays acoustic piano. Not surprisingly Rava´s performances are the absolute pinnacle of the session, encompassing different styles and approaches moving between melodic lyricism and Free Form explorations. He knowingly pays tribute to his idols: Miles Davis and Chet Baker, but avoids copying any explicit phrasing and crafts his distinctly own voice.
The spontaneous recording session lasted for a few hours, just long enough to capture five tracks totaling in about forty two minutes of music. The sound quality of the recording turned out to be better than one might expect, with clear, crispy tone and excellent separation, which suited the music perfectly. The music includes a Rava original, which appears only on this album, a standard, a composition by the Brazilian composer João DonatoFind albums by this artist, a composition by Argentinean saxophonist / composer Horacio BorraroFind albums by this artist and finally a composition by the quintet´s percussionist Farias Gómez – a mixed bag which offers a strong World Music influence and plenty of opportunities for the musicians to show their chops.
In retrospect this is definitely a piece of music that deserves to be revisited, not only for nostalgic reasons, but primarily as a historical document of the period, as well as proof of the fact that music knows no boundaries. Due to its rarity the original LP release is a highly sought after collectors item to Jazz aficionados all over the world, not only connoisseurs of Enrico Rava, but also enthusiasts of early Jazz-World Fusion.
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 22/05/2020Posted: 22/05/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN SURMAN ~ JOHN SURMAN
VOCALION 8402 (Barcode: 765387840228) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2005
Saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist is a true icon of the British / European Jazz scene for over four decades. The immense body of work Surman produced over the years, starting with his numerous UK recordings in the late 1960s and 1970s and then through his association with the German ECMFind albums on this label label, reflect the absolute pinnacle of European Jazz. John’s incredible improvisational ability and masterly technique on several reed instruments made him a most welcome contributor to scores of pivotal albums recorded in the formative years of British modern Jazz, with such illustrious names as Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Graham CollierFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (ExtrapolationFind albums with this title) and many others. His work is always characterized by pioneering achievements, embracing new technology and new musical forms and constantly changing, like a true musical chameleon. This album is his debut as a leader and might come as quite a surprise to listeners, who are familiar with his more contemporary works. The album presents two quite distinctive sides of his musical personality at the time, appropriately divided between what used to be Side A and Side B of the original LP. Surman plays the baritone saxophone exclusively on this album, demonstrating his command of the instrument. On Side A he leads a sextet with Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist (his close associate at the time) – alto sax and Harry MillerFind albums by this artist – bass, exploring some Caribbean / calypso rhythms and playing music not composed by himself (Sonny RollinsFind albums by this artist is the composer of one of the four tracks). On Side B the ensemble is expanded to an eleven-piece band, including Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist – trumpets, Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist and Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist – trombones, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist – bass, Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist – drums and others. The music is a wonderful three-piece suite composed by Surman, a prime example of the British modern Jazz, with superb solos and free-form passages, culminating in a powerful big band orgy of sound. Definitely something any Surman fan will be happy to add to his collection and a beautiful piece of the puzzle representing Surman’s musical legacy.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | S. E. A. TRIO ~ INFLOW
VOICE MUSIC 1010 (Barcode: 5906489287466) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is the debut album by S. E. A. TrioFind albums by this artist, comprising of three prominent Polish Jazz musicians: vibraphonist Dominik BukowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Piotr LemanczykFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof GradziukFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, all of which are original compositions, six by Bukowski and three by Lemanczyk.
This is an ultra-rare opportunity to hear a vibraphone trio recording, which is a splendid occasion to explore this wonderful musical setting, with its naked minimalism and crystal clear sound. Bukowski could not have found a better rhythm section, since both Lemanczyk, which whom he records since decades, and Gradziuk, of RGGFind albums by this artist trio fame, are both superb instrumentalists, members of the very top of the Polish Jazz league. Their skills and talents are obviously perfect for this demanding task, as the fragile and intricate music is quite tricky.
Stylistically the music lies somewhere between ECMFind albums on this label era Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist and the Third Stream efforts by Polish Jazz vibraphone pioneer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, revisiting the vibe (pun intended) of the “old days”, but without letting the nostalgia to cut any slack. The music is vibrant and fully alive, with all three instrumentalists displaying virtuosic fluency and up to date approach.
As already mentioned above, Lemanczyk is a natural choice for this project, but it’s a nice surprise to hear Gradziuk so well behaved and at the same time inventive here, proving again what a great drummer he really is.
Naturally, the spotlight is all on Bukowski as the soloist and main composer, but this album is an absolute team effort, as best Jazz albums always are. It is good to hear Bukowski in his natural habitat, doing what he loves, and keeping the smile on the listener’s lips at all time.
Overall, this is a splendid, beautiful Jazz album, with vibraphone at the helm, which is sadly a rare outing these days, featuring three of the top Polish Jazz players, which of course guarantees quality and class, felt from the first stroke of the mallets. Wholeheartedly recommended and an absolute must for vibraphone lovers.
| | Updated: 09/05/2024Posted: 09/05/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
|
