Record Reviews

JERZY MILIAN ~ BAZAAR (POLISH JAZZ VOL.17) GAD 017 (Barcode: 5901549197204) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2014 This is a newly remastered reissue of the debut album by Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, which was originally released in 1969 as part of the legendary Polish Jazz Series by the state owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label label. The album was recorded in a trio format, with Milian playing vibraphone and marimba, bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist (who also plays the oriental gidjak on one tune) and drummer Grzegorz GierlowskiFind albums by this artist. Two members of the legendary Polish vocal quartet NOVIFind albums by this artist: Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist (who adds vocals on five tracks) and Janusz MychFind albums by this artist (who adds flute on one track) also participate in the recording. The original album presents eight original compositions, seven of which are composed by Milian and one is co-composed by him and Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. This expanded edition adds four tracks, recorded couple of years earlier for the Polish Radio, two of which are his original compositions, one is his arrangement of a Kurt WeilFind albums by this artist song and another is his arrangement of a Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist nocturne. Milian, who started his career on the Polish Jazz scene about fifteen years before this album was recorded, first came into prominence as a member of several ensembles led by Krzysztof Komeda. It was Komeda who persuaded Milian to drop the piano as his main instrument and switch to the vibraphone, thus enabling him to become a member of his ensembles. Later on Milian developed a prolific international career as a vibraphonist and as a composer, being one of the best known Polish Jazz musicians outside of Poland. Many of his achievements are documented by the ongoing archival "Jerzy Milian Tapes" series released by GADFind albums on this label Records, which also released this reissue. In retrospect this is definitely one of the most idiosyncratic albums in the Polish Jazz Series, presenting one of the first occurrences of the Polish / European Chamber Jazz, which was an amalgam of modern Classical and Cool Jazz elements with many different less audible influences, like early World Music, Free Jazz, Ambient (before it was even called that) and others. The vocal parts by Wanat are completely spine-chilling, typical of her brilliant and unique style, which was the crucial ingredients of the NOVI magnetism. It is definitely a must to all Polish Jazz enthusiasts, wherever they might be on this globe (and beyond). This album was already reissued a decade earlier, without the bonus tracks, but the entire run of CD reissues (incomplete by the way) of the original Polish Jazz Series LPs disappeared immediately after being released. The fact that these recordings are unavailable is shameful, and a sad testimony to the fact that State owned Cultural treasures are simply being disgracefully completely wasted!

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HALINA FRACKOWIAK ~ GEIRA GAD 095 (Barcode: 5903068120299) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1977 Released: 2019 This is a reissue of the second album by Polish Pop / Rock vocalist Halina FrackowiakFind albums by this artist, which she recorded with the legendary Polish group SBBFind albums by this artist comprising of bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. The omnipresent female vocal ensemble AlibabkiFind albums by this artist guests on the final track. The album presents nine original songs, all composed by Skrzek with lyrics by Julian MatejFind albums by this artist, a Polish poet who often cooperated with Skrzek. The music presents a diverse collection of themes, which might surprise the SBB / Skrzek fan base, and which is quite different from the material he composed for the group. It is certainly more ambitious, complex and extended than what most of the Polish Pop / Rock mainstream scene was into at the time, and as a result manages to remain interesting even today, whereas most of Frackowiak contemporaries and their output are long forgotten. The album reflects Frackowiak´s modus operandi as a determined Artists, always looking to expand her horizons and deal with non-trivial material, often connected with Polish poetry, which has set her apart from other Pop performers in her country. The sound, which is drenched in synthesizer overdose, is definitely dated, but a few guitar solos, inventive drumming and great vocal performances save the day overall and the album is an interesting, albeit a bit nostalgic trip to the history of the Polish Pop / Rock scene of the late 1970s. For the many SBB / Skrzek fans this album is an integral part of the extended discography and a must for collectors. As usual, kudos to the GADFind albums on this label Records label for bringing this music back to life from the deep cellars of the Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label archives.

Updated: 17/02/2020Posted: 17/02/2020

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VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ ZE SZPULOWCA BIGBEATOWCA GAD 108 (Barcode: 5903068120503) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1965 - 1969 Released: 2019 This is an archival collection of Polish Big-beat (East European alias used instead of Rock And Roll, which was considered Western decadence, invented in Poland and later popular also in other countries behind the Iron Curtain). The album presents seventeen original songs performed by seventeen Big-beat groups from around Poland. All these songs were never previously released on record. Before I actually listened to this album my skepticism told me that this is just another nostalgic collection of music that is best left alone to disappear into the historic void. Imagine my surprise when these incredible songs started to flow one after another, presenting an incredible versatile review of the music, similar to what British groups created in the second half of the 1960s, called Rock And Roll. It appears that the Polish Big-beat groups not only knew exactly what was happening abroad but also were able to play and sing this music with such authenticity, that if not for the Polish vocals, most of them could easily have been found in the BBC vaults. Of course a lot of these songs were lost almost completely, since they were mostly performed live and if the group was very lucky their songs were recorded by one of the regional Polish Radio stations, where this collection originates from. The music industry as such did not exist at the time and the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label could not handle the amount of new music that was springing all over Poland. Kudos to Michal OwczarekFind albums by this artist, who collected a plethora of these gems and to Michal WilczynskiFind albums by this artist from GADFind albums on this label Records, who decided to release this collection, which is such a marvelous document of Polish popular music in the 1960s. Waiting for the next volume of this initiative!

Updated: 13/03/2020Posted: 13/03/2020

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SKALDOWIE ~ PASTORALKI KAMELEON 16 ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1967 - 1992 Released: 2013 This album by the legendary Polish group SkaldowieFind albums by this artist, founded by brothers: Andrzej ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, keyboardist, composer, arranger and leader) and Jacek ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, multi-instrumentalist) collects their recordings for the Polish Radio and TV, which were seasonal Christmas songs. Of course these were not traditional Christmas carols, but original songs composed by Andrzej Zielinski with text by the poet Ernest BryllFind albums by this artist. They span mostly the early days of the group between 1967 and 1972, except for three songs recorded much later. Most of these songs were never previously released on records, except for four of them, which were released as the EP called "PastoralkiFind albums with this title" by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label. Two of the songs feature female vocalists: Maryla RodowiczFind albums by this artist and Lucja PrusFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs appear here more than once in different versions. These songs show again the superb diversity of the group, which was up for any challenge they were presented with, always showing their upper hand. They include many superb melodies, some quite intricate and of course all are executed perfectly. The fans of the group will find this album as an integral part of their legacy, but otherwise it has only a marginal importance as far as Polish popular music is concerned. Nevertheless that fabulous late 1960s / early 1970s sound is simply irresistible. Worth investigation!

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FOTONESS ~ WHEN I DIE MUZA 1518 (Barcode: 5907783425189) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1988 Released: 2013 This is the only album by the legendary short-lived Polish Rock supergroup The FotonessFind albums by this artist, a trio consisting of vocalist / guitarist Tomasz LipinskiFind albums by this artist (ex TiltFind albums by this artist / Brygada KryzysFind albums by this artist), bassist Marcin CiempielFind albums by this artist and drummer Jaroslaw SzlagowskiFind albums by this artist (both ex Lady PankFind albums by this artist / Oddzial ZamknietyFind albums by this artist). The original album included nine original songs, all co-written by the group members and all (except one) with English lyrics. Stylistically the music marks the transition between Punk and Alternative Rock and is based on catchy riffs and expressive, somewhat theatrical vocal delivery and highly energetic performances. However, in contrast to most post-Punk Rock recorded in the West, this music is beautifully put together and features great melody lines and intelligent lyrics. Even the fact that English lyrics are used is not a problem in this case, as the dramatic vocals hide well the traces of any foreign accent. In retrospect this is an exceptionally strong Rock album, which sounds great today exactly the way it did at the time of its release. Sadly almost forgotten, it is a great document of the Polish Rock history, richly deserving to be listened to today, especially in view of the sad state of today´s music. The reissue is expanded with seven bonus tracks, most of which see the light of day here for the first time. Beautifully remastered, this is one great trip down the memory lane! Not to be missed! Side Note: This reissue is part of the "Cult Vinyls" series by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and is the first time this album appears on CD.

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BUDKA SUFLERA ~ 1974-1984 MUZA 1530 (Barcode: 5907783425301) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1974 - 1984 Released: 2013 This album by the legendary Polish group Budka SufleraFind albums by this artist is not exactly a straight-forward review of their first decade of activity, as suggested by its title. It does compile nine songs recorded originally during that decade, but only two of these songs are presented in their original form and the others were re-recorded especially for this release, and therefore this album is considered as a separate entity in their discography, being substantially different from a straight-forward compilation. The group started their career in 1974 with their re-make of the great Bill WithersFind albums by this artist hit "Ain´t No Sunshine" translated into Polish but later on created their own original material, mostly composed by the keyboardist / bassist Romuald LipkoFind albums by this artist. The group kept going continuously over the years and is currently the oldest Polish Rock group still active on the scene. The group´s personnel changed many times over the years but the original members, in addition to Lipko, were vocalist Krzysztof CugowskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andrzej ZiolkowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Tomasz ZeliszewskiFind albums by this artist. During their first decade Budka Suflera maintained a balance between melodic Rock and Progressive Rock. These re-recorded versions have a more up to date (as of then) 1980s sound than the original recordings, but remain faithful stylistically to the originals. Overall they present a remarkable group of talented and ambitious musicians, who definitely had their original way of doing things. In retrospect all these songs remain as examples of perfectly crafted Rock, which easily withstands a comparison with similar material recorded at the time on the west side of the Iron Curtain. Definitely a part of Polish Rock history and an album still very much worth listening to today. Side Note: This reissue is part of the "Cult Vinyls" series by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label. In 2005 the group released a 20 CDs Box Set with all their albums, but this album was not a part of that reissue and therefore is a most welcome addition to the group´s recorded legacy now available on CD.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

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LESZEK DRANICKI ~ LESZEK DRANICKI (SWINGING TRICITY VOL.5) NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1986 - 1989 Released: 2013 This is the fifth installment in the excellent archival series documenting Polish Jazz created in the country´s Tricity on the Baltic Sea, one of the important centers where Polish Jazz thrives and over the years produced numerous first-rate musicians and superb bands. The series presents material, which in most cases never previously appeared in any form and therefore is of immense historic importance. This chapter presents the vocalist / guitarist Leszek DranickiFind albums by this artist, who was a member of the Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble BasztaFind albums by this artist, which is also documented in this series, and later played in several other groups (including the legendary KrzakFind albums by this artist) and recorded as a leader. This album is an expanded reissue of his debut solo album "With A Little Help…Find albums with this title", originally released by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label, with six bonus tracks recorded later at radio sessions. The music consists all of Jazz, Blues and Pop standards, which Dranicki sings (in English) and plays guitar on. Although some of the arrangements are pretty nice, the overall effect is far from spectacular. As usual the attempt to sing in English simply falls apart and spoils the pleasure of the instrumental work, which is better by far. Dranicki is a good guitar player with a Bluesy feel and splendid technical efficiency. The two bonus tracks recorded with bassist Andrzej CudzichFind albums by this artist and drummer Eryk KulmFind albums by this artist are the most impressive and the last two solo tracks are the weakest. The problem with this album is that is completely lacks any originality and shows how some of the musicians behind the Iron Curtain wanted to copy what was happening elsewhere, rather than create some new facets in their musical explorations. Of course this material is still worthy, especially as part of an archival series. This is another great piece of Polish Jazz history, which should definitely be told and preserved as part of the country´s Cultural Heritage. Kudos to Marcin JacobsonFind albums by this artist for creating this series and keeping it going!

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JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI ~ SKLEROPTAK POLJAZZ / ANEX 301 (Barcode: 5907513047568) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1976 Released: 2009 The material presented on this album was recorded in Belgium but presents the great veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist, who contributed his beautiful compositions and arrangements and plays as the principal soloist. He is accompanied by the Belgian (Radio & TV) BRT Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, directed by Etienne VerschuerenaFind albums by this artist, which includes many wonderful players, including internationally known keyboardist Bob PorterFind albums by this artist and drummer Bruno CastelucciFind albums by this artist. Wroblewski, who was also the director of the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist during the years 1968-1978, recorded these compositions earlier with that orchestra, but these new renditions sound quite different from the earlier versions, being more "polished" and "rounded". The Polish orchestra was in fact a collection of top soloist whereas the Belgian orchestra is a full-fledged professional Big Band, which is much more about the overall band sound than individual solo spots. As a result the music captured here is a beautiful example of European Big Band sound, which is quite different from the American counterparts. Overall this is a splendid Big Band album playing excellent music, interesting arrangements and featuring some great solo spots. Although pretty mainstream, this is elegant music, full of European aesthetics, which is completely ageless and sounds now every bit as great when it did at the time of its release. Big Band enthusiasts should have a field day with this excellent piece of music, which is again back in circulation. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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QUARTET ~ THE QUARTET POLJAZZ / ANEX 302 (Barcode: 5907513047575) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009 The QuartetFind albums by this artist was formed by the rhythm section of Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist´s so called "third quartet", i.e. pianist Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist, with the addition of saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, one of Poland´s all-time greatest Jazz musicians and a spectacular player of rare quality. Although Szukalski naturally dominated the sound of the ensemble, it was Kulpowicz who was the spiritual leader and the sole composer of all the original material they performed. Spiritually the music was soaked in the John ColtraneFind albums by this artist legacy, with Szukalski playing lengthy "wall of sound" solos, supported passionately by the rhythm section, with Kulpowicz vamping a la McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, Jarzebski delivering virtuosic bass parts and Stefanski raising all hell behind it all, which engulfed the overall effect with incredible power and overwhelming strength of expression, similar in character to the Coltrane late period recordings. In spite of the fact that The Quartet was undoubtedly the most important Polish Jazz ensemble in the late 1970s, their recorded legacy is truly pitiful and includes this live album recorded in 1978 and their sole studio album, recorded in Finland in 1979 and released by the tiny independent Finnish label LeoFind albums on this label Records (which released also two albums by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist from the same period). Therefore the double CD full of superb archival radio and concert recordings by this ensemble, also entitled simply "The QuartetFind albums with this title", released in 2013 by Polskie RadioFind albums on this label is an absolute marvel and a must have for every Polish / European Jazz connoisseur. Following the ensemble´s breakdown in mid-1980, the Polish Jazz scene will never again experience this kind of music, so close in spirit, sound and emotion to the epicenter of Modern Jazz created by Coltrane. The Quartet´s brief three and a half years period was the closest ever moment in which Polish Jazz would become very close to American Jazz of a decade earlier, both in spirit and in practice. The Quartet somehow managed to put aside the omnipresent Polish melancholy and lyricism, which dictates most of the unique music created under the Polish Jazz banner. Usually, when Polish Jazz musicians try to imitate their idols from across the pond, they fail rather miserably, with The Quartet being the only exception, which proves the rule. Young Polish Jazz musicians should study this music note by note – this is universally sublime document of human expression, freedom and power of creation, which happens rarely. Inspired by Coltrane´s music, this creation sparks a life of its own, which stands shoulder to shoulder with the original, without any inferiority complexes whatsoever. It is not a copy of the source; it is a thankful gratitude for the inspiration itself. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA ~ S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA POLJAZZ / ANEX 312 (Barcode: 5907513047674) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1973 - 1975 Released: 2009 The material presented on this album originates from two separate LPs released by the PoljazzFind albums on this label label, each contributing one side of the original LP. The logic behind it is that the original Poljazz releases often included two sides of completely unrelated material, artificially combined for a variety of reasons, mostly economic. These two sides of two separate LPs are connected by the central personality behind the music, the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. Wroblewski was the founder and leader of the band S.P.P.T. ChalturnikFind albums by this artist, which was formed in order to present Jazz with a humorous and tongue in cheek attitude, featuring well known standards as well as original material by the leader. The band included the absolute crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz scene: saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The wonderful arrangements and whimsy performances are all brilliant, especially in view of the fact that they show that Jazz doesn´t have to be treated always so seriously. Wroblewski was also the director of the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist during the years 1968-1978, which was one of the most important incubators and places of refuge for the young Polish Jazz musicians under the Socialist regime, providing them with a steady income. The orchestra performs a very ambitious piece of music composed by the young pianist Jan JarczykFind albums by this artist called "A Double Concerto For Five Soloists And Orchestra", which features as soloists top Polish Jazz players of the time: violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tomasz Szukalski and Janusz Muniak and trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Legendary American drummer Stu MartinFind albums by this artist also participates in the recording. The music is a very interesting example of early Orchestral Jazz works, which combine contemporary Classical techniques with Free Jazz improvisation. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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KAROLAK / URBANIAK / BARTKOWSKI ~ MOVING SOUTH POLJAZZ / ANEX 314 (Barcode: 5907513047698) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1973 Released: 2009 This is the only album recorded by the fabulous Polish Jazz trio, comprising of keyboardist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, violinist / saxophonist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. In many respects this is a companion album to the groundbreaking album by the Michal Urbaniak ConstellationFind albums by this artist, which was released as part of the Polish Jazz series ("In ConcertFind albums with this title", Vol.36) and recorded the same year as this album. Both Karolak and Bartkowski were members of Constellation and therefore it´s hardly surprising that stylistically the music is very similar. The album includes five compositions (one is a three-part suite), four by Karolak and one by Urbaniak, which can be roughly categorized as Jazz-Rock Fusion, but they are so unique and eons ahead of their time that simplistic labeling is not doing them justice. This is truly visionary music, capturing all three musicians at the peak of their creative powers. Although Karolak composed most of the music on this album, Urbaniak´s concept of Fusion / Funk are the primary forces at work here. His use of electronics to enhance the sound of his violin is simply brilliant and completely innovative. Karolak plays also brilliantly, with his Hammond ripping the sound-space to shreds. Bartkowski is driving the music forward like mad, being the Jazziest element of the music, busy but not intrusive, with fantastic polyrhythmic feel and incredible technique. In retrospect this is one of the most important Polish Fusion albums, which sadly remains mostly unknown even to the local fans and especially so abroad. This reissue creates another chance for this album to be re-discovered, and I recommend to all the Fusion diehard fans to start looking for this gem ASAP! Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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JAZZ TRIO ~ FOR THE FUTURE POLJAZZ / ANEX 320 (Barcode: 5907513047759) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1985 Released: 2009 This album features the Polish Jazz trio called simply The Jazz TrioFind albums by this artist (probably the most unreasonable name one can adopt in such circumstances), which consisted of saxophonist Janusz BrychFind albums by this artist, pianist Marek PiatakFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal ZduniakFind albums by this artist. The pianist composed four of the five compositions present here and co-composed the fifth with the saxophonist. Although little know and mostly forgotten, this is, in retrospect, quite an excellent and unusual album, which Polish Jazz connoisseurs should definitely seek out. The music is a very strange amalgam of melodic, pre-composed intriguing music, mixed with excellent saxophone improvisations, which are very Free Jazz oriented and superbly executed. Sometimes the saxophone parts are overdubbed, which creates an even stronger "wall of sound" effect, common in Free Jazz. Also the absence of bass, which dramatically influences the sound of the music, contributes to the "strangeness" and of course transfers the responsibility of keeping time towards the piano player and the drummer, who is quite unusual as well. The overall result is definitely fresh and surprising, quite different from what was happening on the local scene at the time. Perhaps it was an early precursor of the Yass scene, which was about to explode in Poland shortly after this album was recorded. The overall level of individual virtuosity as well as the interplay between the three musicians makes this album a hidden gem, which simply begs to be discovered. It is a pity they never recorded together again (as far as I know) as the trio certainly had the potential of becoming one of the hottest groups on the Polish Jazz scene. But, alas, we´ll never know what might have happened. In the meantime let´s enjoy what we can hear! Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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JANUSZ MUNIAK ~ CRAZY GIRL POLJAZZ / ANEX 322 (Barcode: 5907513047773) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2009 This is the third album as a leader by the veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, recorded live with his quartet, which also included pianist Wojciech PuszekFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and American drummer George BucknerFind albums by this artist. They play only four compositions, one of which is an original by Muniak, another is by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist (the title track) and the remaining two are standards. Although well played the album offers no innovation whatsoever and is simply one more Bebop set, which is quite forgettable. The leader plays some mighty solos, which are, as always in his case, quite incredible and virtuosic, but the overall effect remains pretty unremarkable. The album also suffers from a pretty amateurish sound quality, which often victimized live Polish Jazz recordings, with mobile recording equipment in the Socialist country being sadly sub-standard. Nevertheless it is a document both of the times and of Muniak´s legacy, and therefore definitely worth listening and enjoying his bravado performances. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

Updated: 01/06/2018Posted:

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JANUSZ MUNIAK ~ PLACEBO POLJAZZ / ANEX 325 (Barcode: 5907513047803) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1982 Released: 2009 Polish saxophonist / composer / bandleader Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist was one of the most important Polish Jazz figures during the early post WWII period, which flourished in the 1960s / 1970s. He was part of the emerging revolutionary movement of Polish Jazz, where he played along such legendary pioneers as Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Since the late 1970s Muniak leads his own groups and records as a leader. This is his second album as a leader and since then he continued to record a plethora of albums over the years, both as a leader and sideman. He also owns his own Jazz club in Krakow, called "U Muniaka", which is one of the oldest continuously active Jazz venues in the country. This album presents Muniak in a quartet setting, with pianist Wojciech PuszekFind albums by this artist (playing the Fender Rhodes electric piano), bassist Andrzej CudzichFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof ZawadzkiFind albums by this artist. They perform four lengthy originals, all by Muniak, which allow for extended improvisations, mostly by the leader. The presence of the electric piano sets the overall ambience of this recording, pushing it slightly towards Jazz-Rock Fusion, but the leader keeps the situation in check and well within the modern mainstream bounds. Muniak´s performances on both the soprano and tenor saxophones are first rate as are those by the rhythm section, creating together some excellent, but not very innovative modern Jazz, which most Jazz listeners should enjoy. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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MAREK BLIZINSKI ~ WAVE POLJAZZ / ANEX 327 (Barcode: 5907513047827) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1979 - 1980 Released: 2009 This is the only album as a leader recorded by Polish Jazz guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, who was one of the first Jazz guitar players on the local scene. He was a very in-demand session player and participated in many recordings as well as recording with several groups of which he was a formal member, led by such Polish Jazz luminaries like Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. He was a brilliant improviser and had a wonderful tone, which ornamented many important Polish Jazz recordings. His solo career, however, never really took off and this was the only album he managed to release as a leader, before his untimely and tragic death at the age of 42. The album consists of two radio sessions, with Blizinski playing on both in a trio format, first with bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and then with bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. Both these rhythm sections are considered to be among the best ones ever active on the local scene. The album includes seven compositions, all of which are standards. Although well played, both by Blizinski and the rhythm sections, this album does not present his true abilities and sensitivities and in retrospect is unfortunately much less impressive than it could have been. Playing these standards, which present no true intellectual challenge for these experienced musicians, was a poor decision. His numerous recordings with other artists are much more impressive. Guitar enthusiasts will obviously find here many beautiful moments of mainstream Jazz, with are every bit as good as those recorded across the pond. Definitely worth remembering! Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ FROM ONE TO FOUR POLJAZZ / ANEX 328 (Barcode: 5907513047834) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2009 This is the second album as a leader by the fabulous Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, who died recently tragically prematurely, succumbing to cruel illness. Smietana was one of the most active players on the local scene and contributed enormously to its development over the years. This album presents him, as the title suggests, in different settings: solo, duo, trio and quartet, playing with some of the best Polish Jazz musicians active at the time: saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Piotr BaronFind albums by this artist, bassists Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist and Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist. They perform eleven compositions, five of which are originals: three by Smietana and one each by Scieranski and Pelc, and the rest of the material is all standards. This is one of the Jazziest albums recorded by Smietana, with fewer Fusion ventures, and his beautiful Jazz sensitivity is especially apparent herein. But all the other players also contribute very fine examples of intelligent, intimate musical conversations with the leader. Scieranski´s bass and Baron´s saxophone are simply delightful. Smietana experiments with the guitar synthesizers and performs on three quite distinctly sounding guitars, with his delicate touch being definitely one of the finest ever. Also the three duets with veteran saxophonist Janusz Muniak are among the album´s most enchanting moments. In retrospect this is a very strong album from start to finish with no weak moments or unnecessary "fillers", and a superb legacy which Smietana left for all of us to enjoy. A must for all Polish Jazz fans! Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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MICHAEL J. SMITH ~ GEOMUSIC III-PL POLJAZZ / APEX 313 (Barcode: 5907513047681) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1976 Released: 2009 This is one of the most unusual (at the time) albums recorded in Poland and one of the first Free Jazz / Improvised Music recordings. It was recorded during a tour in Poland by American born (resident also partly in Europe) Jazz / Contemporary Music composer Michael J. SmithFind albums by this artist, who was accompanied by Poland´s top Jazz personality, saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist. Namyslowski unexpectedly plays not only saxophone but also cello and flute, which of course is quite surprising. The album consists of seven original compositions, all by Smith. At the time of the recording Smith was in the early stages of developing his musical ideology, which he called "Geomusic" and several of his recordings were entitled using this idiom. Later on he would become a well known music scholar, composer and innovator, mostly in the fields of electronic music. He is still active today. The music included here is a wonderful example of early Improvised Music, involving minimal melodic notation and based on careful interaction between the musicians, mutual respect and virtuosity of the participants. Namyslowski, who usually played much more conventional music as far as form and structure were concerned, is the focal personality here and his cello playing is simply outstanding and outrageously original. The music lost absolutely nothing of its originality and pioneering spirit over the years. Although Free Jazz and Improvised Music are today a substantial part of the Polish Jazz scene, almost four decades earlier it was quite rare and the fact that this music was released at all at the time is a miracle. The new generation of Polish improvisers should dig this album out and give it a proper listen, as it certainly is worth studying, as much as listening today. Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.

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FLAMINGO ~ FLAMINGO (SWINGING TRICITY VOL.4) SOLITON 250 (Barcode: 5901571092508) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1961 - 1963 Released: 2012 This is the fourth installment in the excellent archival series documenting Polish Jazz created in the country´s Tricity on the Baltic Sea, one of the important centers where Polish Jazz thrives and over the years produced numerous first-rate musicians and superb bands. The series presents material, which in most cases never previously appeared in any form and therefore is of immense historic importance. This chapter presents the FlamingoFind albums by this artist ensemble, a Traditional Jazz outfit, which was very popular locally as well as in the rest of the country and even participated in the prestigious annual Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw. The group was founded in the late 1950´s, following the great Polish Jazz rebirth after the two historic Sopot (one of the Tricity cities) festivals in 1956 and 1957, which were a turning point in Polish Jazz history. The ensemble existed for about a dozen years until the late 1960s, and unfortunately never managed to record even one album, which sadly was the fate of many Polish Jazz artists during the Socialist regime. However they did record for the Tricity Polish Radio station in Gdansk, where most of the material included on this album comes from, except for five tracks that come from the 1961 Jazz Jamboree Festival, which were previously released by the state owned record label Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label (MuzaFind albums on this label). Flamingo was one of quite a few Polish Jazz ensembles playing Traditional Jazz, i.e. Ragtime, Dixieland and New Orleans, as part of the Traditional Jazz Revival, which swept Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. It was founded by pianist Jerzy DerfelFind albums by this artist, bassist Henryk PietrewiczFind albums by this artist and banjoist Lucjan WozniakFind albums by this artist. They were soon joined by drummer Janusz NalaskowskiFind albums by this artist and clarinetist Eugeniusz PudelewiczFind albums by this artist. Other group members present on this album were trumpeters Piotr NadolskiFind albums by this artist and Ryszard PodgorskiFind albums by this artist, and trombonists Andrzej DorawaFind albums by this artist, Edward RykaczewskiFind albums by this artist and Jan TomaszewskiFind albums by this artist. After the group folded, several members joined other groups; like Rama 111Find albums by this artist, which appears on an earlier release of this series, and even NiemenFind albums by this artist´s group AkwareleFind albums by this artist. The group performed mostly Traditional Jazz standards, with their youthful energy and zest overcoming the lack of experience. The overall level of performances was nothing short of excellent, which gained them quite a following and respect at the time. They performed in several European countries and participated in many jazz festivals. Since their split they managed to get briefly reunited a few times celebrating their past. Most of the Flamingo members live now outside of Poland. This is another great piece of Polish Jazz history, which should definitely be told and preserved as part of the country´s Cultural Heritage. Kudos to Marcin JacobsonFind albums by this artist for creating this series and keeping it going!

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