Record Reviews

DORUZKA / WYLEZOL / BALLARD ~ ANDROMEDA`S MYSTERY BIVAK 004 (Barcode: 8594211850018) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022 This is the debut album by an international Jazz trio comprising of Czech guitarist / composer David DoruzkaFind albums by this artist, Polish keyboardist / composer Piotr WylezolFind albums by this artist and American drummer / composer Jeff BallardFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, four by Doruzka, three by Wylezol and one by Ballard. Doruzka emerged in the last decade as one of the most active and highly appreciated musicians on the European scene, appearing on many albums in his home country and in Poland. Wylezol is a well-established musician on Polish scene and personally one of my favorite Polish Jazz pianists, shining among a fierce competition, and Ballard is well known for playing with top Jazz musicians in the US and leading his own bands – which means this album is exploding with talent and creativity from start to finish. The music is all surprisingly well-behaved, modern and probing but based on solid melodic themes, with both Doruzka and Wylezol always weave like magic. Quite naturally Doruzka takes upon himself most of the soloing, always brilliantly supported by the two partners, but Wylezol also contributes some impressive solo parts, which are every time incredibly creative, in addition to being in charge of the bottom bass pulsations created on synths. Ballard stays somewhat in the background and deliveries a dense, polyrhythmic pulsation behind the melodic contents, ornamenting and leading the music simultaneously. The atmosphere created by the trio is somewhat dark and gloomy, despite the beautiful melodies, soaked in lyricism and profundity, which is at times overbearing, which means that this music requires serious listening attitude and focus, like all serious music should do. But the aesthetic values invoked by the music are certainly worth the effort and concentration invested. Overall, this is an elegant, highly unusual album, which offers the listener a multi-layered Artistic experience, deeply rewarding and fulfilling. Not an easy encounter, but deep stuff rarely is easy, as we all know. I was truly enchanted by this music and a heartfelt thank you is offered to you, my Friends, for taking your Art seriously and sharing it with us. Godspeed!

Updated: 13/01/2023Posted: 13/01/2023

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

RUNAWAY TOTEM ~ ANDROMEDA MUSEA 4299 (Barcode: 3426300042996) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999 3rd album by the Italian band Runaway TotemFind albums by this artist, which is often referred to as the Italian MagmaFind albums by this artist, and the first part of the "Cosmic Cycles" trilogy. There is no doubt that Runaway Totem`s music is very Magmaish in style and sound, but it also has its own characteristics. With additional influences ranging from Gentle GiantFind albums by this artist, King CrimsonFind albums by this artist and even Deus Ex MachinaFind albums by this artist (another great Italian band), they storm and rage through the lengthy tracks with vigor and intelligence. An absolute must from Magma fans.

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend