Record Reviews
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  | MILLER ANDERSON ~ BLUESHEART / CHAMELEON
MIG 01142 (Barcode: 885513011428) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2003 - 2008 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of two albums by British Blues-Rock vocalist / guitarist / songwriter Miller AndersonFind albums by this artist. "BluesheartFind albums with this title" (2003) was recorded in a core trio format with bassist John PriceFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul BurgessFind albums by this artist and features keyboard players: Dave BaldwinFind albums by this artist and the legendary Jon LordFind albums by this artist. "ChameleonFind albums with this title" (2008) was recorded in a quartet setting with keyboardist Frank TischerFind albums by this artist, bassist Kris GrayFind albums by this artist and drummer Paul BurgessFind albums by this artist. Most of the material on both albums consists of Anderson´s originals. This remastered and expanded edition adds two bonus tracks to each of the original albums.
Anderson, primarily known as a founding member of the legendary Keef Hartley BandFind albums by this artist, is a superb singer and extraordinary guitarist, who sadly did not achieve a wide recognition he so much deserves. His career picked up on the German scene with the beak of the new millennium and these two excellent albums document his activities during that period.
The music and the stylistic approach is completely retro, sounding as if these albums were recorded in the late 1960s, when British Blues and Blues-Rock enjoyed a tremendous renaissance. Therefore fans of such music should find this album irresistible.
Blues-Rock fans not familiar with Anderson´s work should grab this album at the first opportunity, as there are very few genuine manifestations of the genre as good as this one. Anderson´s guitar work puts him on a pedestal of the Blues-Rock heroes, and none of the new generation of Blues oriented guitarists come even close to his fabulous feel of the Blues that he is able to deliver.
Overall this is a must have for all Blues-Rock fans out there, no questions asked! Contemporary Blues-Rock is mostly about imitation, so why nor go directly to the source? Enjoy!
| | Updated: 04/08/2018Posted: 04/08/2018 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIERLUIGI BALDUCCI ~ BLUE FROM HEAVEN
DODICILUNE 303 (Barcode: 8033309693033) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012
This is an album by Italian electric bassist / composer Pierluigi BalducciFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with American oboist / saxophonist Paul McCandlessFind albums by this artist, British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Italian drummer Michelle RabbiaFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, one of which is a bonus alternate take, all but two composed by Balducci and one each by Brad MehldauFind albums by this artist and Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist. The album was released by the excellent Italian DodiciluneFind albums on this label label, which is the home of many excellent albums.
The music is a superb collection of mostly original compositions, brilliantly executed by the quartet of first class musicians. Balducci’s electric bass is given a lot of exposure, as appropriate for a leader / composer, and his playing is wonderfully melodic and round. McCandless is given most of the solo space, and he is the usual “Pied Piper of Hamelin”, weaving the endless oboe and soprano saxophone parts, like only he is able to. Tylor is, as always, heartbreakingly lyrical and provides sublime harmonic support and occasional brilliant solos. Rabbia keeps the proceeding rolling in a tight rhythmic frame. Together they are simply a blissful European Jazz experience.
McCandless, although American, is an ideal partner here, as his approach to Music in general, and Jazz in particular, always was much more open and appreciative of European aesthetics, as well as World Music influences, making him a true Global artist. His work with Oregon and his extended recording legacy, which spans well over a hundred albums, earned him a universal respect among his musical peers.
Overall, this is a wonderful album, full of beautiful lyrical music, with perfect harmonies and heartwrenching melodic themes, performed by some of the best musicians out there, and although probably completely unfamiliar to most Jazz listeners, is absolutely worth being discovered, which I wholeheartedly recommend of course.
| | Updated: 29/01/2025Posted: 29/01/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLUE ÖYSTER CULT ~ BLUE ÖYSTER CULT (MILLENIUM EDITION)
COLUMBIA 505483 (Barcode: 5099750548325) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2001
1st album by this US group. Although associated mostly with the heavier side of rock, Blue Öyster CultFind albums by this artist`s debut album was in fact an ear-opener to a new dimension in songwriting. The cryptic lyrics and unusual rhythm patterns keep the listener on his toes. The music sounds like a mixture of Jefferson AirplaneFind albums by this artist and SpiritFind albums by this artist, but always full of surprises. In fact this is as far from the monotonious heavy metal riffs as can be and sounds quite fresh even today.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANCY BOLAND ORCHESTRA ~ BLUE FAME / RED HOT / WHITE HEAT
MPS 602517643888 (Barcode: 602517643888) ~ BELGIUM ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2008
This is a reissue of the three albums recorded by the Belgian pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Francy BolandFind albums by this artist and his Orchestra, originally recorded in 1976 and released on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label. The 2CD album presents eighteen tracks, which include original compositions by Boland and Jazz standards, all arranged by him. The orchestra comprises of some of the best European Jazz musicians active at the time, like British saxophonists Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist and Tony CoeFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, bassist Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Kenny ClareFind albums by this artist, American expatriates: saxophonists Sahib ShihabFind albums by this artist and Sal NisticoFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Benny BaileyFind albums by this artist, and many other excellent musicians.
American drummer Kenny ClarkeFind albums by this artist and Boland co-led The Kenny Clarke / Francy Boland Big BandFind albums by this artist between 1960 and 1972, which was one of the most formidable European Jazz Big Bands with an extensive recording legacy, with several notable releases also on the MPS label. Boland composed and arranged for the most important American Jazz Big Bands in the 1950s, like those of Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist, Woody HermanFind albums by this artist and Count BasieFind albums by this artist, before returning to Europe and starting his work with legendary German Big Band leader Kurt EdelhagenFind albums by this artist.
The music is all within the mainstream Jazz idiom, but the sublime arrangements make it absolute timeless and distinctly different from the American Jazz Big Band tradition, with a much more complex orchestral sound and refined European aesthetics. There are plenty of wonderful soli by the orchestra members, as expected, but as usual in the European Big Band environment, the accent is on the entire orchestra sound, with the soloing being mostly the icing on the cake. Personally Mathewson’s bass playing on this album is an absolute wonder and alone worth the price of this album, but of course every note played here is simply exceptional.
For Big Band / Orchestral Jazz fans this album is an absolute must of course, a true school example of what Big Band music is all about. Holy Grail!
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: 09/08/2021Posted: 08/08/2021 | CD 2 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BREAKOUT ~ BLUES
MUZA 940 (Barcode: 5907783499401) ~ POLAND ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2005
3rd album by Polish group BreakoutFind albums by this artist is one of the most influential albums, not only in Poland but in the entire Easter European music scene. Separated from the West by the Iron Curtain, Eastern European musicians and fans alike had little opportunity to hear album released "on the other side" and therefore relied primarily on whatever was available to them. Poland led the way in music in the 1960s and 1970s not only in Jazz, which flourished there, but also in Rock and Blues-Rock, as well as early Progressive Rock. Albums by NiemenFind albums by this artist, Poland´s most influential Rock / Prog / Jazz-Rock Fusion figure and later on also this album, served as the "musical bible" for generations of Eastern European musicians to study, copy and be inspired by. Breakout, led by vocalist / guitarist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist, included also lead guitarist Dariusz KozakiewiczFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. The lyrics were written by Polish poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s resident lyricist. This album is a superb example of Blues-Rock, with absolutely stunning guitar work by Kozakiewicz, which resulted in it being referred to as the Polish version of the legendary John MayallFind albums by this artist´s "Bluesbreakers With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title" album, being surely as influential as that seminal release. In retrospect the album lost absolutely nothing of its power and beauty and hopefully some Rock-Blues enthusiasts around the world will discover it eventually. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BRUFORD LEVIN UPPER EXTREMITIES ~ BLUE NIGHTS
DGM 0002 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
2nd album from 2000, a 2CD live recording of what turns out to be one of the most interesting bands on the Prog scene today. Brillaint musicianship and lots of talent make this a fascinating document of improvised music of the highest level by veterans of the genre. The sometimes dark sound of the ensemble creates an atmosphere of anticipation and tension.
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANCESCO BRUNO ~ BLUE SKY ABOVE THE DREAMERS
HEVHETIA 0193 (Barcode: 8588005258692) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019
My relatively short acquaintance with Francesco BrunoFind albums by this artist is a wonderful example of personal chemistry; we immediately found out that the number of things that connects us goes way beyond our obvious love of music. We also share the Mediterranean love of life, beauty, food and above all friendship – the kinship with other people.
As a result of our friendship I discovered that Francesco is also a wonderful musician, an excellent guitar player and a superb composer, who consistently develops his Art over the years. He is gifted with a delicate lyricism, which results in his melodies being simply heart melting, like much Italian music naturally does. But he is also humble, hard working, loyal, highly professional, uncompromising and honest, a collection of qualities that are rare to come by these days.
In spite of its immense popularity in many musical arenas, Jazz was never an easy field for the guitar. In retrospect the number of great Jazz guitar players is not overwhelming, surely not those who contributed considerably to the development of the idiom. Guitar is perhaps a less "natural" Jazz instrument and requires from its master a kind of dedication that only very few musicians are able to sacrifice.
When you listen to the music on this album, hopefully with a glass of good wine in you hand, you are about to take a wonderful journey into Francesco´s world. Full of beautiful melodies and brilliant, gentle performances, like fingers touching the surface of water, this music simply flows smoothly from one tune to the next and before you even get a proper taste of it all, it is over – time to push the play button again of course.
The quartet setting suits the music ideally and considering the fact that Francesco plays with these excellent musicians since years, the ensemble vibe and the mutual respect between Pierpaolo PrincipatoFind albums by this artist, Luca BulgarelliFind albums by this artist, Marco RovinelliFind albums by this artist and Francesco are well reflected within the music.
The Jazz cognoscenti will of course be able to hear the finesse of the guitar phrasing, the fabulous harmonizing of the piano and the subtle chronometry of the rhythm section, but honestly this is just splendid music best enjoyed without much cerebral analyzing – just let your heart do the work!
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: 07/09/2019Posted: 07/09/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | CAPTAIN BEEFHEART / MAGIC BAND ~ BLUEJEANS & MOONBEAMS
VIRGIN 365515 (Barcode: 094636551524) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2006
Following the release of Unconditionally GuaranteedFind albums with this title, Captain BeefheartFind albums by this artist and the Magic BandFind albums by this artist were about to start a European tour, but as a result of the commercial failure of the album (and other personal problems between Vliet and the band members) the Magic Band fell apart shortly before the tour was about to start. Vliet haphazardly put together a new version of the Magic Band, which made the tour (see the Live London ’74 album) and later recorded this album. The music again displays a more “commercial” approach, but the album was received coldly by critics and fans alike, which caused Vliet to withdraw from the music scene for a few years with the decision not try to make “commercial” music again. Mind you, “commercial” when referred to Vliet’s output, takes quite a different meaning than in most cases. In retrospect this is still a classic album, which lost nothing of it’s magic in the passing of time. Vliet’s brilliant vocal interpretations and superb songwriting are apparent and this is definitely a must have for all his numerous fans.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVID CLAYTON-THOMAS ~ BLUE PLATE SPECIAL
NOT ON LABEL 196 ~ CANADA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996
This is a live in the studio album by Canadian vocalist / songwriter David Clayton-ThomasFind albums by this artist, primarily known as the charismatic frontman of the legendary Brass Rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist, recorded after an almost decade long pause following his previous solo album "ClaytonFind albums with this title". He is accompanied by a bunch of great players, including guitarists Larry DeBariFind albums by this artist and Andy AledortFind albums by this artist, organist Doug RileyFind albums by this artist, pianists Matt KingFind albums by this artist and Glenn McClellandFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Rob PaparozziFind albums by this artist, bassist Mike DuClosFind albums by this artist, drummer Jonathan PeretzFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mark QuinonesFind albums by this artist and a four player strong brass section. The album presents ten songs, for of which are originals by Clayton-Thomas and the rest are mostly Blues classics by Albert CollinsFind albums by this artist, Willie DixonFind albums by this artist, Albert KingFind albums by this artist and others.
The solo recording career of Clayton-Thomas was revitalized near the turn of the Millennium, when he was nearing the age of sixty, which is quite remarkable and unparalleled. He recorded (so far) thirteen albums since 1996, this being the first of them, more than twice the number of albums he recorded beforehand since the start of his career.
The album is a wonderful opportunity for Clayton-Thomas to revisit his Blues roots, which he does singing brilliantly and with a great feeling. His idiosyncratic voice, charisma and love of music remain intact and for his many fans this album is strong as everything else he ever recorded.
The accompanying musicians are all pros and the album offers superb soloing from start to finish, especially guitar and organ work. This is a classic Blues-Rock environment, which in the hands of capable musicians like these ones never fails to create the atmosphere the many fans of the genre enjoy!
After being a great fan of Clayton-Thomas for over five decades, it is great to return to this album after not listening to it for over 20 years – it is as fresh as it sounded when I heard it for the first time!
| | Updated: 12/08/2020Posted: 08/08/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN COLTRANE ~ BLUE WORLD
IMPULSE! 602577626524 (Barcode: 602577626524) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 2019
This is an archival album by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, recorded with his classic quartet featuring pianist McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, bassist Jimmy GarrisonFind albums by this artist and drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight short tracks, which are five original compositions by Coltrane, one with three takes, one with two takes and the other three with one take each. The music was recorded on June 24, 1964 between the recordings sessions for the “CrescentFind albums with this title” and “A Love SupremeFind albums with this title” albums. The recording is in mono, since it was about to serve as a soundtrack to the film “Le chat dans le sac” by the Canadian director Gilles GroulxFind albums by this artist, released later that year. It was the only soundtrack recording by Coltrane. The music remained unreleased for fifty-five years!
Although the music is, as everything recorded by Coltrane, sublime, the album introduces nothing new to Coltrane’s recorded legacy. All the compositions were already previously recorded and the music offers some of the most “well behaved” Coltrane performances, which were actually out of sync with his stylistic approach at the time of the recording, obviously since the music was intended for a soundtrack and highly improvised Free Jazz was way too early to appear on the screen. That said, Coltrane and the quartet at the apex of their powers and the music swings wonderfully with the saxophone soaring highly above.
Overall, this is definitely a worthy addition to the extended Coltrane discography, perhaps less essential than his other studio recording of that period, but still blessed by his enormous and unique talent. For Coltrane completest this album is of course an absolute must!
| | Updated: 08/07/2024Posted: 20/01/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | AYNSLEY DUNBAR ~ BLUE WHALE
SPALAX 14814 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
Aynsley Dunbar was one of the most respected drummers in the 1960`s & and 1970`s and played with such giants as John Mayall, Frank Zappa and even the late versions of Jefferson Airplane. He was also a band leader and recorded a series of brilliant albums, which combined the elements of blues, jazz and Prog very successfully. This album from 1970 with a stellar line-up is a great example of his abilities. An unknown treasure!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLEETWOOD MAC ~ BLUES JAM IN CHICAGO VOL.1
BLUE HORIZON 516446 ~ UK ~ Blues
First part of a marathon jam session arranged during the New Year 1968/1969 Fleetwood Mac US tour. All this music was recorded in one day (January 4th 1969) at the legendary Chess studios in Chicago, and this was an incredible opportunity for the Fleetwoods to meet and to jam with some of their heros and legendary blues figures, such as Otis Span and Willie Dixon. The result is of course stunning and fortunately documented here for posterity.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLEETWOOD MAC ~ BLUES JAM IN CHICAGO VOL.2
BLUE HORIZON 516447 ~ UK ~ Blues
Second part of a marathon jam session arranged during the New Year 1968/1969 Fleetwood Mac US tour. All this music was recorded in one day (January 4th 1969) at the legendary Chess studios in Chicago, and this was an incredible opportunity for the Fleetwoods to meet and to jam with some of their heros and legendary blues figures, such as Otis Span and Willie Dixon. The result is of course stunning and fortunately documented here for posterity.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SHLOMI GOLDENBERG ~ BLUES STRAIGHT AHEAD
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
Israeli saxophonist / composer Shlomi GoldenbergFind albums by this artist is one of the most active musicians on the local scene. Shlomi released his debut recording on my JazzisFind albums on this label label almost 20 years ago, and he´s been recording and releasing albums ever since. This album presents him in a quartet setting with pianist Nitzan GavrieliFind albums by this artist, bassist Nadav LahishFind albums by this artist and drummer Roi UlielFind albums by this artist, playing what seems at first glance as a nostalgic set of his own Blues-based compositions, similar to the material recorded by many Jazz Giants at the outset of their careers, especially John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. Although the music is definitely straight-forward, it is by no means simplistic. If fact it is often more challenging to play today in a straight-forward manner than explore the thrills of freedom that Jazz allows, provided of course that the straight-forward performance is as good as the one presented here. Shlomi´s ability and fluidity as a player are quite evident here, when he soars during his solos and he´s superbly supported by the pianist and the rhythm section. All the musicians have a great grasp of the Blues background so omnipresent in Jazz, enabling them to explore the compositions to their full potential. Overall this is an excellent album from start to finish, somewhat nostalgic, but very much contemporary at the same time. I´m sure that this album can be enjoyed by many Jazz connoisseurs around the world.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | STEVE HACKETT ~ BLUES WITH A FEELING
CAMINO 13 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
This album from 1994 presents Steve`s version of the blues, with a `normal` quartet. There is a lot of blues in there of course, but the originality of the approach give it a great `twist` which creates a fabulous feeling.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALF HAGGKVIST ~ BLUE SERGE
LOSEN 172 (Barcode: 7090025831720) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017
This is the second album on the Norwegian LosenFind albums on this label Records by the Swedish pianist / composer Alf HaggkvistFind albums by this artist; this time a solo piano album, which presents eight compositions, four of which are Haggkvist originals and four are well known standards.
The music, both the original compositions and the treatment of the standards, are full of lyricism and typical Nordic stylistic idiosyncrasies, which aesthetically are much closer to Norwegian and Danish Jazz than to Swedish Jazz, which in turn is usually much closer to the American Tradition. In any case Haggkvist is obviously deeply rooted in European Jazz aesthetic, which also comes to full view in the open and even almost completely Free original pieces featured on this album (most appropriately entitled "Freely One" and "Freely Two").
The album presents a diverse spectrum of styles, which are more hinted than explicitly stated, which range from the early Ragtime / Boogie-woogie to the a.m. Free Jazz, with Haggkvist feeling completely at home with them all. His technique is spotless and his touch on the keyboard is caressing and sensuous, always right on the money.
Overall this is a beautiful solo piano album, perfectly composed, executed and recorded, all up to the highest standards, which should more that satisfy even the sternest music connoisseurs. There is esthetical food for almost the entire Jazz listening audience, from standards to well organized Free Jazz, which is a very rare phenomenon on today´s record market, with Haggkvist being brilliantly cross-sub-genre perfect.
Thank you Maestro for this little gem, which makes our world a tiny bit spiritually richer and emotionally happier!
| | Updated: 17/05/2017Posted: 17/05/2017 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SIRIL MALMEDAL HAUGE / KJETIL ANDRE MULELID ~ BLUES AND BELLS
GRAPPA 4757 (Barcode: 7033662047574) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is the debut album by the Norwegian duo comprising of vocalist / songwriter Siril Malmedal HaugeFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Kjetil Andre MulelidFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven songs, three of which are originals by the duo and the rest are their arrangements / interpretations of Pop / Jazz standards.
Although primarily associated with Jazz, the duo members take somewhat liberal approach to their Jazz roots on this album, creating a unique atmosphere, which blends many musical influences. The intimate setting allows for close dialogue between the two musical souls, which is always the most important aspect of any musical cooperation.
Hauge has a very particular timbre and vocal expression, which I personally like very much, but might perhaps not be for everybody. It is somewhat theatrical and cabaret oriented, and her English accent is charmingly foreign. But all in all I always enjoyed her vocals, although I suppose I’d have preferred her singing in her Mother tongue.
Mulelid is an excellent pianist and proved to be also a sensitive accompanist. His improvisations are sometimes a bit intense for this intimate setting, but on the other hand they are significantly enriching the musical tapestry of the entire album.
Overall, this is a very agreeable and enjoyable vocals / piano duo, with strong ties to Jazz, but not strictly Jazz per se, making it accessible to a relatively wide audience. Beautifully recorded, the music is certainly elegant and inviting, which should make many music lovers happy.
| | Updated: 01/04/2023Posted: 31/03/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | DICK HECKSTALL-SMITH ~ BLUES AND BEYOND
BLUE STORM 004 (Barcode: 5050232500422) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
This is the last album by British saxophonist / composer Dick Heckstall-SmithFind albums by this artist, recorded before his passing in 2004. The album, produced by Pete BrownFind albums by this artist, includes an incredible list of British musicians, who played with him during his career: guitarists Clem ClempsonFind albums by this artist, Peter GreenFind albums by this artist and Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist, drummers Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist and Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist and vocalists Rab McCulloughFind albums by this artist, Paul JonesFind albums by this artist, Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Paul WilliamsFind albums by this artist. John MayallFind albums by this artist plays piano and several other musicians also take part in the proceedings. The album presents twelve tracks, most of which are originals by Heckstall-Smith and some are Blues standards.
As the list of names and the album’s title suggest, the album is dedicated to Blues and Blues-Rock material, which of course was always a part of Heckstall-Smith’s background in addition to his Jazz-Rock Fusion, Prog and Jazz activities.
The music is absolutely delightful, as expected, and the guests / friends invited to participate do not disappoint. The album is full of great tunes, brilliant guitar soli and evocative vocals, all within the Blues idiom, spiced with Heckstall-Smith’s idiosyncratic saxophone playing. Of course the album brings fond memories of his activities with Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, John MayallFind albums by this artist’s BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist and ColosseumFind albums by this artist, which were icons of the British scene for many years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and sadly little known album by one of the true heroes of the British Blues, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz scenes. It certainly deserves to be heard and if anybody can find a copy of it, it is wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/02/2022Posted: 03/02/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AHMAD JAMAL ~ BLUE MOON
JAZZ VILLAGE 57001 (Barcode: 3149027000123) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
American pianist / composer Ahmad JamalFind albums by this artist seems to be completely immune to passing time and his career continues to flourish at the age of 82, a remarkable achievement by any standard. Of course one would never in their lives guess this album was recorded by a man of such advanced age, as his technique, flair and above all percussive approach to the instrument (which has always been his trademark) seem to be better than ever. He also contributes three new compositions with the rest being standards, but his innovative and imaginative interpretations change them almost beyond recognition. He is accompanied here by brilliant musicians: bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist, drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist and percussionist Manolo BadrenaFind albums by this artist, all much younger than the Master, which of course does not interfere with the perfect interplay between them. Listening to this music has a strangely uplifting effect, especially to someone like myself, for whom Jamal´s music was always there as part of the soundtrack of his life. Perhaps this music is the elixir of life that keeps us going? Not to be missed, so forget the lame excuses and grab this!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUICY LUCY ~ BLUE THUNDER
OUTER MUSIC 1001 ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
After 4 great albums released between 1969-1972 the UK Blues-Rock group Juicy Lucy disbanded. This is their comeback album from 1996 and it features 2 founding members - Paul Williams on vocals and Micky Moody on lead guitar. The material is similar to their origial stuff, blues oriented with hard rocking rhythm section. Williams` voice is as good as it was then and Moody plays some nasty slide guitar, probably one of the greatest masters of this instrument. Definitely a worthwhile comeback!
| | | CD 1 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 |
  | LOVE SCULPTURE ~ BLUES HELPING
EMI 99416 ~ UK ~ Blues
1st album from 1968 by this UK Blues trio with sensational guitar playing by Dave Edmunds, who unfortunately later in his career aborted his great gift for blues. The material is pretty standard (except a great version of Summertime), but the performance absolutely brilliant. Blues guitar fans still wet their lips hearing this after all these years.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WYNTON MARSALIS ~ BLUE INTERLUDE
WOUNDED BIRD 8729 (Barcode: 664140872929) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1992 Released: 2007
This album finds trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist leading a septet, his ultimate vehicle of choice after fronting smaller combos in the first decade of his career. The septet comprised of musicians, who played in his earlier groups with the addition of trombonist Wycliffe GordonFind albums by this artist, and included saxophonists Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist and Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. The fact that Marsalis´ ensembles expanded from quartet to septet was consistent with other changes in his musical path where a bigger ensemble became necessary as a tool to enable performing an ever increasingly complex and broad scope of his compositions and sophisticated arrangements. But this album also marks another dramatic change with Marsalis abandoning the idea of writing separate "songs" or "tunes" and moving into creating expanded suites in which the separate parts would be combined into a thematic whole. "Blue InterludeFind albums with this title" was the first of such extended works, comprised of many melodies, moods and rhythmic patterns, glued together by an underlying central musical concept and idea. The music is absolutely stunning and the romantic theme of the work, as it is about love after all, shows the gentle and often humorous side of Marsalis. Stylistically the music is based on the entire heritage of "classic" jazz, from its New Orleans roots and up to the almost symphonic complexity of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist´s Jazz suites. Marsalis´ handling of the trumpet is breathtaking, but all his cohorts are first class musicians and their individual contributions are excellent throughout. This is a small masterpiece in every aspect and an immensely pleasant listening experience from start to finish. No serious Jazz collection can be complete without this gem being included!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUES FOR THE LOST DAYS
MUSIC ON CD 13458 (Barcode: 8718627225424) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2017
This is a reissue of an album by the Godfather of British Blues, vocalist / guitarist / keyboardist / harmonica player / bandleader John MayallFind albums by this artist. “Blues For The Lost DaysFind albums with this title” was the third of the three albums released in the 1990s by the American SilvertoneFind albums on this label label and it finds Mayall accompanied by guitarist Buddy WhittingtonFind albums by this artist, bassist John PaulusFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe YueleFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Tommy EyreFind albums by this artist plays on five tracks and a brass section on two tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, eight of which are Mayall’s originals and the rest are by other songwriters. Mayall used the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist moniker for the second time between 1982 and 2008 and this album was also released under that moniker.
All the three albums released on Silvertone find Mayall at his very best. Mayall sings splendidly and plays some great harmonica parts as well as other instruments. Whittington is a brilliant guitarist and his works is simply exemplary. The keyboards work by Eyre is absolutely superb as well, as is all his work over time and he remains as one of the greatest secret heroes of British music. Time made absolutely no dent on this music whatsoever and it sounds every bit as fresh and inviting as it did at the time of its release.
One of the amazing qualities of Mayall is his remarkable consistency and level of artistry, which he managed to preserve throughout his career, in spite of his constant metamorphosis and migration into diverse stylistic niches. His recording legacy presents an impressive collection of over fifty albums, without not even one of them being an artistic compromise. Same goes for his songwriting, which against all odds, manages to ignore the limitations of the Blues idiom and create wonderful new material without being derivative.
Overall, this is a most welcome initiative to bring this album back into circulation, as it was getting a bit tough to find on the market. For Blues / Blues-Rock fans this is of course as indispensable as any other Mayall album.
| | Updated: 29/08/2021Posted: 29/08/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUES FROM LAUREL CANYON (EXPANDED EDITION)
DECCA 840839 (Barcode: 602498408391) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
9th album by John MayallFind albums by this artist, and his most personal and intimate statement to date. Following the decision to disband the Bare WiresFind albums with this title version of the BluesbreakersFind albums by this artist Mayall immediately formed a new quartet, retaining only Mick TaylorFind albums by this artist from the previous group and adding two exceptional young musicians: Steve ThompsonFind albums by this artist on bass and Colin AllenFind albums by this artist on drums.
The material for the new album was written during Mayall’s vacation in California, where he stayed in the Laurel Canyon near LA, a favorite living area of many US musicians. During his stay Mayall met and socialized with fellow musicians, such as members of the blues band Canned HeatFind albums by this artist and Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist and his Mothers Of InventionFind albums by this artist, and even dedicated two of the songs on the album to them.
The entire album was designed as a one continuous flow of music, with one song smoothly leading into another without any breaks. The magic atmosphere is completely unique and the complex and subtle musical themes make it one of the most remarkable albums recorded in the 1960s. In many respects this album was an end of a phase in Mayall’s long musical road.
It was the last album on DeccaFind albums on this label (he would sign with PolydorFind albums on this label next), the last purely UK based album (he would play with many US musicians later on and eventually move to live in the US), the last of the pure blues albums (the next phase would be much more jazz influenced). In retrospect the John Mayall Decca recordings are one of the greatest documents of the 1960s UK music scene and an everlasting, timeless source of musical inspiration. Essential!
| | Updated: 24/10/2021Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MAYALL ~ BLUESBREAKERS WITH ERIC CLAPTON (DELUXE EDITION)
DECCA 984180 (Barcode: 602498418017) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2006
2nd album by John MayallFind albums by this artist and his Bluesbreakers, which features Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist as the lead guitarist and sadly the only album they recorded together at the time. Of course this is the definitive white blues album of all times, with an incisive impact not only on Clapton’s stairway to the “Godly” status of Emperor of all guitar players, but also on the entire music scene, basically establishing the electric Blues (and later Blues / Rock) as the natural and legitimate next step from American-born acoustic blues. This album influenced (and still influences) generations of guitar players of all genres and changed the face of music probably more than any single album did beforehand. It is pretty ironic (at least in retrospect) that Clapton left the YardbirdsFind albums by this artist, accusing the band of becoming to “commercial” following the release of the “For Your Love” single (which by the way was quite revolutionary and groundbreaking as it is), to pursue a “pure” blues oriented music with Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, only to leave a few month later to form CreamFind albums by this artist, which became one of the most successful Rock bands in history. Life is full of surprises! Nevertheless during his stint with Mayall, Clapton managed single-handedly to shape the future of Rock, producing some of the most memorable sounds ever. Speaking of sound, Clapton’s US-made Gibson Les Paul combined with the British Marshall amplifiers produced a sound so unique that it was to be imitated by hordes of axe players around the world for decades. Of course Clapton’s feel for the blues is undeniable, and his interpretation of the twelve bar music form, mixed with his rock background, created an embryo of a new musical Hydra. Mayall was of course ecstatic to have Clapton in his band, only to be utterly devastated when Clapton announced his departure soon after this album was recorded. Fortunately Mayall soon recovered and followed suit with another guitar hero – Peter GreenFind albums by this artist. This (long overdue) edition of this groundbreaking album collects virtually absolutely everything Mayall and Clapton managed to record together. The First CD includes both the original mono mix of the album and the stereo mix, which was done only three years later (1969). The second CD includes a plethora of singles, outtakes, BBC sessions and live recordings, many of which see the light of day for the first time. I am not a great fun of the “If you had to select only one single album…” idea, but this one does come as close to the idea as it is humanly possible. If you don’t own this album, this probably is the greatest hole in your collection (not to mention your music education). Hopefully not for long.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ BLUES FOR PRAHA
GAD 007 (Barcode: 5901549197068) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1966 Released: 2013
The Polish GADFind albums on this label Records label has become a treasure chest of archival recordings by Polish Jazz and Rock artists and in the short period of time since 2010, when the label released its first album, it established its position on the market as a dedicated and reliable source of interesting material. This album follows the already established pattern and is the second volume of archival material by legendary Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, one of the forefathers of modern Polish Jazz.
The material collected here was recorded in former Czechoslovakia, Poland´s southern neighbor, which had a wonderful Jazz scene as well at the time these recordings were made, i.e. mid-1960s. For many reasons, which fall far beyond the scope of a record review, the cooperation between these two scenes was rather limited, and therefore this album is especially important, as it documents a little known chapter of Eastern European Jazz. Milian established collaboration with Gustav BromFind albums by this artist, the founder and leader of the legendary Gustav Brom OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which was one of the best Jazz Big Bands in Europe at the time. He performed and recorded with the orchestra several times until the brutal Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, which put an end to the Prague Spring.
The material collected here presents four studio tracks recorded by the Czech radio and three live tracks recorded a few months later. Two tracks are Milian originals and one was composed by the Gustav Brom Orchestra´s bassist Milan RezabekFind albums by this artist. The remaining four tracks are standards. The American trumpeter Ted CursonFind albums by this artist, who often visited Eastern Europe and recorded in Poland as well, solos along Milian on one track. All tracks feature extended solos by Milian and are a wonderful testimony to his virtuosic abilities. The orchestra also performs quite splendidly of course, even in the trickiest moments. The music is nor terribly innovative, moving within the established boundaries of Bee Bop and Cool, but is definitely well played. Overall this is yet another glace at the Polish Jazz history, which of course deserves to be remembered.
With remastered and restored sound and informative booklet (including text in English), this album is definitely worth checking out by any connoisseur of European Jazz, looking for another perspective.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MODERN BLUES QUARTET ~ BLUES ON BACH
REQUIEM / LYDIAN 2020/08 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020
This is the debut album by a Polish Jazz quartet called Modern Blues QuartetFind albums by this artist, which comprises of flautist / composer Ryszard BorowskiFind albums by this artist, violinist Mateusz SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rafal SarneckiFind albums by this artist and bassist Michal JarosFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by Borowski.
As the title suggests, the music is "inspired" by compositions of Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist, and follows many similar Jazz projects mentioned in the album´s liner notes. The liner notes also state that there is very little of Bach´s music as such on this album, and the proximity is mostly associative, which is quite correct. The resulting music is easy on the ear and quite entertaining, obviously meant for wider audiences.
The musicians are of course some of Polish Jazz top instrumentalists, as their individual performances attest, providing plenty of excellent solo showcases. The delicate sound of a drumless quartet works very well and the excellent bass parts manage to keep the music swinging, even without percussive support. Smoczynski´s parts take the music into the Gypsy Jazz idiom and are (for me) the highlights of this project. Sarnecki plays some tasty swinging guitar parts, but is less dominant.
Overall this is a nice amalgam of Jazz-Classical Fusion and Smooth Jazz, which many listeners on the lighter side of the Jazz idiom can enjoy immensely.
| | Updated: 09/01/2021Posted: 27/09/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRITZ PAUER ~ BLUES INSIDE OUT
MPS 602498112649 (Barcode: 602498112649) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2003
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by Austrian pianist / composer Fritz PauerFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio format with two American expatriates: bassist Jimmy WoodeFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony InzalacoFind albums by this artist. All three musicians lived at the time of the recording in Germany, which was one of the most important European Jazz centers. The album presents eight tracks, with three of the being original compositions by Pauer, two each are by Woode and Inzalaco and one is a standard. The album was produced by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist, who also served as the session’s sound engineer. This was the last album Pauer recorded for the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label.
The music is deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition, but Pauer takes it way further into the European Jazz aesthetics, with his extraordinary improvisations, which often move briefly as far as Free Jazz, swiftly returning to the melodic swing. The resulting see-saw between Swing and more open playing is truly delightful, and the excellent American rhythm section supports the leader with ease and elegance. Pauer, along with Joe ZawinulFind albums by this artist, were the most internationally renowned Austrian Jazz pianists.
Overall, this is a fascinating snapshot of the German Jazz scene at the early 1970s, which was a magnet for Jazz musicians from all over Europe and the US, and served as a breeding ground for the exploding European Jazz. For classic Jazz piano trio fans, this album is a delight from start to finish.
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: 18/06/2025Posted: 18/06/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | DON RENDELL / IAN CARR QUINTET ~ BLUE BEGINNINGS
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 20 (Barcode: 5060774190234) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by the first lineup of the seminal British Jazz quintet co-led by saxophonist / flautist Don RendellFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, which also included pianist Colin PurbrookFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave GreenFind albums by this artist and drummer Trevor TomkinsFind albums by this artist. The album presents two BBC sessions, the first from April 1964 (two tracks) captured before the quintet recorded their first album “Shades Of BlueFind albums with this title” and the second from November 1964 (six tracks) shortly after the studio recording which took place in October 1964.
The first session presents one live version of a track, which will appear on the studio album and one standard and the second session presents five live versions of the material present on the studio album and one standard. Most of the original material consists of compositions by Rendell and Carr and the title track of the studio album was composed by Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist of course.
These sessions show vividly the giant step the quintet made between recording the debut album with Purbrook on piano in 1964, which was almost completely conventional and Bee Bop oriented, and the following albums with Garrick on piano, starting with second album recorded in 1965, where the quintet turns into the amazing modern Jazz ensemble passing the equinox which marks the birth of modern British Jazz. Garrick was not only a brilliant and farsighted pianist but also the most prolific composer, which of course strengthened the quintet’s output considerably.
Despite the fact that the music here is pretty conventional, as far as the Jazz tradition is concerned, on the verge of change but not quite yet, the fact that it is the first time it appears on record, this album is worth its weight in gold, not only to British / European Jazz enthusiasts but all modern Jazz lovers around the world. In view of the relatively limited recorded legacy by this legendary quintet, this stuff is absolutely essential!
As usual kudos to the Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label people, who dared to make this dream of a label to come true.
| | Updated: 18/07/2021Posted: 18/07/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROLLING STONES ~ BLUE & LONESOME (DELUXE EDITION)
POLYDOR 602557149463 (Barcode: 602557149463) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is the twenty-third British studio album (and twenty-fifth American studio album) by The Rolling StonesFind albums by this artist, separated by eleven years from their last studio effort "A Bigger BangFind albums with this title" form 2005. It features twelve covers of Blues standards, which makes it the first Stones album to comprise entirely of covers. In addition to the quartet Stones lineup: vocalist and harp player Mick JaggerFind albums by this artist, guitarists Keith RichardsFind albums by this artist and Ronnie WoodFind albums by this artist and drummer Charlie WattsFind albums by this artist, several other musicians participated in the recording sessions, which took place in London during just three days in December of 2015: bassist Darryl JonesFind albums by this artist and keyboardists Chuck LeavellFind albums by this artist and Matt CliffordFind albums by this artist. Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist plays guitar on two tracks and Jim KeltnerFind albums by this artist plays percussion on one track. The Deluxe Edition contains no additional music in comparison to the standard edition, but is beautifully packaged and includes a hardcover book about the sessions and the origin of the songs and glossy photographs of the band.
For The Stones this album is a symbolic closing of a circle. They always were and never stopped to be a Blues band, even when they ventured into other territories, some closer to the Blues like Rhythm And Blues and Rock And Roll and others more remote, like Psychedelic Rock and Pop. But overall, they always had the Blues deep inside their musical guts, which probably is the main reason why they managed to survive and carry on for all these years, now in the sixth decade of their odyssey.
The album presents all the "usual" qualities every Stones´ album is blessed with: honesty, directness and no bullshit attitude, which made them always different from most other superstar groups, who came and went away over the years. As Jagger says in the album´s book, The Stones could have recorded this album in 1963 or 1964, and I wish they would have done so, as we would now have that recording to compare with the one made over fifty years later. But listening to the early Stones albums today is good enough to reach the conclusion that five decades made them better in many ways, but more importantly did not blemish any of their basic qualities, which make them what they are.
Although "white men can´t jump" might apply to some areas of life, but The Stones phenomenon is a living proof that white musicians can play the Blues with the same emotional and spiritual depth as the forefathers of the idiom. After all it´s not about the color of your skin, but about the color of your soul!
And the rest is history…
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 10/03/2017 | CD 1 Digibook Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | HAROLD RUBIN ~ BLUE BAG
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Harold RubinFind albums by this artist is one of the very few true Renaissance men I’ve had the pleasure to meet and befriend over the years. An architect, a poet, a painter and an outstanding musician, but also a wonderful human being, who hates bullshit of any form and shape. This, often bold, honesty is present in every creative process Harold is involved with, and what makes his music so wonderfully different and outstanding. Blue Bag is a musical suite, a complete work of art, rather than a collection of separate and unrelated pieces of music. It is probably Harold’s most “accessible” album. It involves a larger group of musicians (as opposed to his regular trio / quartet setting) and for the first time also features vocals. Stylistically it involves, in addition to the obvious jazz contents, some rock elements (for the first time since Harold played with ZaviotFind albums by this artist), some theatrical aura and a much clearer melody lines. The entire album brings fond memories of Brecht’s operas and works by musicians like Gunter HampelFind albums by this artist and his wife Jeanne LeeFind albums by this artist or Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist. It also prominently features for the first time Harold’s poetry, which constitutes the libretto for the entire suite. The musicians playing with Harold include Mark SmulianFind albums by this artist, his partner in Zaviot, who proves he can play the guitar as skillfully as he can handle the bass, Smulian’s wife the wonderful singer Gani TamirFind albums by this artist, Israel’s best drummer Asaf SirkisFind albums by this artist (who plays on many albums released on my JazzisFind albums on this label label), extremely talented trombonists Reut RegevFind albums by this artist and Rafi MalkielFind albums by this artist, and bassist Amit CarmeliFind albums by this artist. Harold contributes his unique brand of clarinet virtuosity and occasionally recites / narrates his fantastic poetry with the music playing in the background (reminiscent of the wonderful “Jazz & Poetry” movement of the 1960’s). If I could, I’d make every person on this planer to listen to this Magnum Opus, but obviously I can’t do that. Hopefully some of you will read this and subsequently discover some of the best music ever recorded on this planet.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RUTKOWSKI & KOSSOWSKA ~ BLUES ON THE BRIDGE
LUNA 395 (Barcode: 5900672923957) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is an album by Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer Milosz RutkowskiFind albums by this artist and vocalist / harmonica player Beata KossowskaFind albums by this artist. They are supported by bassist Grzegorz PiaseckiFind albums by this artist and drummer Wojciech BulinskiFind albums by this artist. Guitarist Krzysztof Puma PiaseckiFind albums by this artist appears as guest artist. Together they perform eleven compositions, all of which are originals by Rutkowski except for one Pop standard and one Polish Pop song.
The music is a nice amalgam of Jazz and Blues, pretty unusual these days as the two genres have grown apart despite their common roots. The original compositions by Rutkowski are all excellent, with strong melodic content and perfect harmonic structure, as well as internal Groove and Funky feeling. The basic sound of the album is very Jazzy and the Blues seasoning is emphasized mostly by the harmonica and guitar parts and the vocals.
The instrumental performances are all excellent from start to finish and the album is a great fun to listen to, beautifully balancing the sophistication of the Jazz ingredients and the emotional influx of the Blues. Personally I´m not really excited by the vocals and would have preferred this album in purely instrumental version, which would have made it truly exceptional, buy hey, that´s just me. Kossowska does however contribute some breathtaking harmonica parts. The young rhythm section does a perfect job and Piasecki burns with his electrifying solos.
Overall this is a very enjoyable album, which maintains a classy approach to the Blues along with the basic Jazz attitude, which should easily satisfy connoisseurs of both genres. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 13/05/2017Posted: 13/05/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SAVOY BROWN ~ BLUES ALL AROUND
QUATRO VALLEY 0165 (Barcode: 805859088724) ~ UK ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is an album by legendary British Blues band Savoy BrownFind albums by this artist, founded in 1965 by guitarist / vocalist / composer Kim SimmondsFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded in a trio setting with bassist Pat DesalvoFind albums by this artist and drummer Garnet GrimmFind albums by this artist and was completed shortly before Simmonds died in December 2022, aged seventy-five, and was released posthumously. The album presents twelve original songs, all by Simmons.
As the music proves, Simmonds never lost any of his great feeling for the Blues and his recorded legacy, which spans dozens of albums, has no weak spots, despite the ever changing lineup of the band. His vocals and especially his unique guitar playing remain an everlasting statue of the Blues-Rock idiom, which proves that Europeans can write and play the Blues every bit as well as musicians from across the pond.
Overall, with the sadness accompanying the departure of the iconic figure of Simmonds, this album is a great testimony of his creative powers and a proper “closing” of his titanic career, although more of his recording are bound to pop up in the future. Absolutely not to be missed, this is an instant Blues classic.
| | Updated: 16/03/2023Posted: 16/03/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | SMITH, TOMMY ~ BLUE SMITH
LINN 110 ~ UK ~ Jazz
As all jazz players, Smith has also a deep appreciation of the blues, and he employs the blues format with great feeling and zest. The improvisational skills are at their best, emphasized by the presense of John Scofield, one of the greatest guitar players today. Modern jazz at its best, with energy and deep understanding of the undercurrents driving the art form.
| | | CD 1 HDCD Recommend To A Friend |
  | THREE SPIRITS ~ BLUE CHORALE
ABEAT 532 (Barcode: 8031510005324) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by Italian trio Three SpiritsFind albums by this artist, which consists of vocalist Nadia BraitoFind albums by this artist, bassist Stefano Dall`OraFind albums by this artist, who also adds some electronic effects and drummer Francesco D`AuriaFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight compositions, originating from a wide variety of mostly Jazz and World Music sources and include also one original composition by Dall`Ora.
The trio presents an intimate climate, with the vocals being accompanied only by bass and drums, with the bass playing most of the instrumental melodic parts, which of course is very unusual. Braito sings lyrics but mostly performs wordless vocalese, which is very impressive. Dall`Ora plays many amazing bass parts, some using effects, which would leave many a bass player completely stunned. D`Auria adds a tasty and elegant rhythmic support, which is always right on top of things, changing the dynamics according to whatever is appropriate at a given moment.
The music completely escapes trivial classifications and amalgamates so many elements that listing them all is simply impossible. There is a distinct Jazz improvisation present at all times, but the music moves all over the scale from contemporary Classical to World Music. The unique arrangements change to original compositions often very dramatically and always surprisingly. It is absolutely amazing how just three musicians can make such powerful music.
This is one of those albums where one starts to listen to with absolutely no preconception or previous knowledge and as it progresses your jaws simply open wider and wider with each tune. Dall`Ora sent me this record after I reviewed another album he plays on, and this lucky coincidence made me discover this fantastic gem of an album. Thanks Stefano! Finding such albums really makes life worth living.
Above all, the existence of albums like this one proves that European Jazz is continuously leaping forward and there are no limits ahead of us. These young people will keep surprising us with their ingenuity, inventiveness and individuality, and thank God we can enjoy this fruits of their labor.
Brilliant from start to finish, this album is for those music connoisseurs who think they have heard it all already. You are all in for a big surprise!
| | Updated: 22/09/2016Posted: 22/09/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARCIN WADOLOWSKI ~ BLUE NIGHT SESSION
ALLEGRO 028 (Barcode: 5901157049285) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is the second album by the Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Marcin WadolowskiFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with saxophonist Wojciech StaroniewiczFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Dominik BukowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz MackiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Adam CzerwinskiFind albums by this artist, all seasoned players from the Polish Tricity region. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Wadolowski. Wadolowski can be also heard as a member of Elec-Tri-CityFind albums by this artist and MoongangFind albums by this artist.
The music is all very melodic and kept within the mainstream Jazz conventions. All the tracks are relatively short, creating a sort of "songs" album, although of course entirely instrumental, in contrast to a typical Jazz recording, which focuses on the improvisational skills. Wadolowski simply decides to concentrate on featuring his skills as a composer and presenting his music rather than his and his quintets performing talents. There is basically absolutely nothing wrong with such approach of course.
Nevertheless the album features very talented and skilled instrumentalists and although the framework and time limitations of this album allow rather modest contributions, those are all executed perfectly. Staroniewicz is a marvelous player and so is Bukowski, who uses recently more and more the xylosynth (a combination of xylophone and synthesizer, which sound really more like a keyboard and produces some very beautiful moments. The rhythm section is also perfect for the job, staying mostly in the background but providing a solid support for the soloist and doing it with grace and elegance. As to the leader, personally I prefer his work in a more electric / Fusion / Funky environment than playing gentle almost acoustic guitar, which limits his possibilities or perhaps exposes more his technical weaknesses, but overall his performance is also quite satisfactory.
All in all we have here a pleasant well played album, which should satisfy most Jazz connoisseurs, with a slight tendency towards melodic and less complex musical forms. This album is quite ideal for a lazy evening with a glass of a wonderful cognac or very old single malt on ice.
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  | LESLIE WEST ~ BLUE ME
PROVOGUE 7191 (Barcode: 8712725719120) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
2nd recent album by legendary guitarist Leslie WestFind albums by this artist, dedicated to the exploration of his blues roots. Similar to its predecessor (Got BloozeFind albums with this title), the album includes a mixture of blues and rock classics brilliantly performed by West and his cohorts, again including drummer Aynsley DunbarFind albums by this artist (see John MayallFind albums by this artist, Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist). West lost none of his magic touch, which made MountainFind albums by this artist one of the most distinctive and pioneering groups of the late 1960s. There are no great discoveries here, no groundbreaking pyrotechnics, just perfect blues-rock performances that sound right time after time. If you love Mountain, you’ll love this. If you love the blues, you’ll love this too. Just listen to West’s version of George GershwinFind albums by this artist’s “Summertime” and bliss will take over. So what else can one ask for?
Visitors' Comments
Dr. Rafael Augusto Lara Palmeros
A superb albumn!!!. Leslie West and a group of excellent musicians – Aynsley Dunbar, Tim Fahey, Kevin Curry, Art Groom, Todd Wolfe and Brian Michell - recorded this marvelous music with covers from Leroy Carr, Ida Cox, The Great Muddy Waters, Sonny Thompson and others. The music is a mixture of Blues-Rock and some Bayou sound (´Green River´). West still sings with a gear-shredding roar and guitar lines sound heavier than thunder on this set of blues-rockers. ´Hit the road Jack´ is relatively sleek and elegant (remember Ray Charles version!!), ´Four day creep´ is a Blues-Rock as old times (West, Bruce and Laing), ´Standing around crying´ is a real good Blues. Gershwin´s ´Summertime´, that closes the albumn is plenity moody, with West´s guitar weeping and a exceptional Brian Mitchell playing piano. A must for a real Blues-Rock fan!!. 4.5 stars.
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