Record Reviews
48 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ATOLL ~ MUSICIENS-MAGICIENS (MS)
MUSEA 2100 (Barcode: 3426300021007) ~ FRANCE ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2004
1st album by the seminal French Prog band AtollFind albums by this artist, which dominated the French Prog scene in the 1970s following this brilliant debut. They managed to create both Symphonic Prog and incorporate jazzy improvisations characteristic of Fusion. Excellent musicianship and compositions make this album sound as good today as it did when first released.
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHRISTIAN BALVIG 6-TET ~ MUSIC FOR HUMANS
AMP 022 (Barcode: 662578831167) ~ DENMARK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2016 - 2017 Released: 2018
This is the debut album by Danish pianist / composer Christian BalvigFind albums by this artist and his sextet, which is in fact an amalgam of a classic Jazz piano trio and a Classical string trio. In addition to Balvig the other members of the sextet are: bassist Jens Mikkel MadsenFind albums by this artist, drummer Siv Oyunn KjenstadFind albums by this artist, violinist Louise GormFind albums by this artist, violist Mikkel SchrieberFind albums by this artist and cellist Maria EdlundFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Balvig.
As expected from the lineup the music is a Jazz-Classical Fusion project, based on highly melodic compositions, which Balvig masterly weaves, and incorporating the string trio layer, which emphasizes the meditative nature of the music. At times the music becomes almost chamber and spiritual in nature, and its slow paste and limited dynamics inspire reflection and contemplation. Stylistically the music floats between cinematic music and European Jazz-Classical explorations, with clear Nordic influences.
The individual performances are all spotless and inspired, yet restrained and quite minimalistic at times. Balvig plays single note successions, beautifully supported by Madsen, which are taken over by the strings and ornamented into more harmonically expanded structures. Kjenstad is present only on the more Jazz oriented swinging piano trio parts, which are relatively limited. The music is obviously an ensemble effort and the cooperation between the ensemble members is the essential ingredient contributing to the success of the result.
Overall this is a very interesting project, which takes some effort to get into, but creates an intimate connection with the listener, taking him on an imaginary ride through an imaginary musical landscape. This album and the other album Balvig released on the excellent Norwegian label AMPFind albums on this label Records, called "Associated With WaterFind albums with this title", present a talented and dedicated pianist / composer, who is searching to expand his musical horizons within the contemporary European instrumental music, close to Jazz but not limited to its defined areas and terminology. Definitely worth investigating!
| | Updated: 07/04/2018Posted: 07/04/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DJANGO BATES ~ MUSIC FOR THE THIRD POLICEMAN
AH UM 003 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1990
This is a wonderful and completely obscure album by British pianist / composer / bandleader Django BatesFind albums by this artist, recorded with and octet comprising of saxophonist Steve BuckleyFind albums by this artist, cellist / bassist Steve BerryFind albums by this artist, drummer Martin FranceFind albums by this artist, guitarist Stuart HallFind albums by this artist, violinist Sarah HarrisonFind albums by this artist, bassoonist Robert JuritzFind albums by this artist and clarinetist Dai PritchardFind albums by this artist. Three additional guest musician participate on selected tracks. The album presents thirteen movements / pieces based on the book “The Third Policeman” by Irish writer Flann O`BrienFind albums by this artist. The album was released on the short-lived legendary Ah Um label.
The album offers quite unusual instrumentation, similar to a small orchestra, as well as beautiful cross-genre compositions, which combine Jazz with Classical Music, cinematic, vaudeville, Irish Folklore and other influences, and is a superb example of Bates’ great talent as a composer / orchestrator. The music is quite complex and reflects the convoluted plot of the book, which of course is worth reading on its own merits.
In some respects, one can look at the album as a soundtrack to a movie, based on the book, which alas was not yet filmed, but surely deserves to be, with the soundtrack already ready. The album is a great opportunity to discover a different musical personality of Bates, much unlike his more familiar Jazz image. It remains to be one of my favorite albums in his extensive recorded legacy.
Overall, this is another hidden British Jazz gem, which took me years to find a copy of, but the wait was definitely worth it big time. If you can find a copy, grab it, no questions asked!
Side Note
British composer / arranger Nick PurnellFind albums by this artist founded the short-lived Ah UmFind albums on this label label in 1989, which existed until 1993 and released a total of sixteen albums with some of the top British Jazz musicians of that period and a few American guests, which remain as of the finest recordings of that period. For some inexplicable reason all these albums are almost completely obsolete today, despite their excellent musical value, which is a shame, as they all deserve an honorable place in any decent British Jazz collection.
| | Updated: 12/03/2025Posted: 12/03/2025 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BIG BAND KATOWICE ~ MUSIC FOR MY FRIENDS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.52)
MUZA 1052 (Barcode: 5907783420528) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2007
Katowice, the Capital of Upper Silesia - Poland´s industrial region, was very important to the development of the Polish Jazz scene due to the fact that the local Music Academy was the first and for many years the only higher educational facility teaching a Jazz programme which awarded a degree in Music. The highly dedicated faculty and stuff directed generation after generation of young Polish musicians towards a career in Jazz music and in time the majority of the local Jazz scene was indeed a collection of the Katowice Music Academy alumni, the names of which are simply too numerous to mention. This phenomenon emphasizes the crucial importance of music education and its contribution to Culture. This album presents a Jazz Big Band led by trumpeter / composer Zbigniew KalembaFind albums by this artist and comprising of the students of the Katowice Music Academy and guest soloists, some of which were ex-students, such as guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist, pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and many others. They perform eight compositions, five of which are originals and three standards, all beautifully arranged and passionately performed. The majority of the music has a distinct Jazz-Rock Fusion feel, which is not surprising as the genre ruled the local scene in the late 1970s. Since the Polish Jazz series includes only a handful of Big Band recordings, this is a most valuable addition to the overall presentation of the Polish Jazz scene. Warmly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHRIS BISCOE ~ MUSIC IS: PLAYS MIKE WESTBROOK
TRIO 607 (Barcode: 5052442022947) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2021 - 2022 Released: 2022
This is an album by British Jazz saxophonist / clarinetist / composer Chris BiscoeFind albums by this artist, recorded with pianist Kate WilliamsFind albums by this artist, guitarist Mike OutramFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave WhitfordFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ScottFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all of which, as the title suggests, were composed by British pianist / composer Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist.
Biscoe has been a member of the various ensembles led by Mike Westbrook and his wife Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist since 1979 and participated in many recordings by these ensembles, consistently demonstrating his brilliant technique and talent. On this album he arranged some of his favorite Westbrook compositions and performs them with different musicians, often in a new and quite surprising way.
The music is absolutely brilliant of course, not only because of the strength of these compositions, but in this case especially due to the treatment these compositions receive, mostly with a surprising freedom of interpretation, which dominates the proceedings. Biscoe’s sublime performances are not surprising of course, but the level of musicianship by the entire team, which I am not familiar with, is also excellent throughout.
The music manages to swing splendidly due to the superb work by the rhythm section, which drives the pulse steadily, even if the rhythm dances around unevenly, purposely of course. Williams’ and Outram’s solos are also perfectly structured, and are a bliss to listen to.
One of the tracks is performed by Biscoe using multi-tracking of different saxophones and the clarinet, creating a wonderful orchestral effect, and another track is a solo saxophone recording, both being among the highlights of this album. All the music is wonderfully recorded and the sound quality is superb for the entire duration.
Overall, this is an outstanding and highly unusual album by one of the British Jazz less spotlighted heroes, who certainly deserves all the compliments for his consistently splendid work as a sideman over the years, and has a lot to offer as a leader as well, as this album proves beyond any doubt. A wonderful surprise and an immediate favorite of mine; well done indeed!
| | Updated: 15/08/2023Posted: 15/08/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BLASCELLO ~ MULTIVERSE
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is a solo album by Polish cellist / multi-instrumentalist / composer Mikolaj BlaszczykFind albums by this artist, who uses the BlascelloFind albums by this artist moniker. Since the promo CD offers no detailed information, I assume Blaszczyk plays on all the instruments featured on the recording and composed all the music, which appears on nine tracks and lasts for slightly over half an hour.
The music offers solid melodies, which are presented in cross-genre arrangements, which combine Classical, Folklore, Pop and Cinematic approaches, with the cello offering somewhat improvised soloing on top, which adds a slight Jazzy accent.
The music is quite pleasant but the album completely lacks a coherent direction, being probably a demo of Blaszczyk’s abilities as performer and composer, rather than a serious musical offering. Having said that, he certainly has potentially much to offer as an Artist, once he develops his own personal style and expression.
Overall, this is a nice display of Blaszczyk’s talents, which offers some entertaining value, but little musical depth. For cello lovers, there are many pleasurable moments herein.
| | Updated: 02/10/2024Posted: 02/10/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ CHYLA ~ MUSIC WE LIKE TO DANCE TO
ALPAKA 029 (Barcode: 7331898174584) ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is the 4th album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Tomasz ChylaFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quintet, which also includes trumpeter Emil MiszkFind albums by this artist, guitarist Krzysztof HadrychFind albums by this artist, bassist Konrad ZolnierekFind albums by this artist and drummer Slawomir KoryznoFind albums by this artist, the same lineup that recorded the previous album three years earlier. The album presents nine tracks, six of which are original compositions by the leader, one is co-composed with Hadrych and one each is by Hadrych and Miszk. The album was recorded at the excellent Monochrom studio and engineered by Ignacy GruszeckiFind albums by this artist.
The music this time is quite different from everything Chyla recorded previously, which proves that he is not clutching to one specific style or genre, but on the other hand it also signifies that he is still searching for his personal voice. Personally I find this album to be a bit confusing musically, as it jumps all over the range, between contrasting stylistics as far from one another as Heavy Metal Bebop to almost Free Improvisation. As a result, it sounds rather chaotic and unfocused, despite the obvious abilities by the musicians involved.
Also, the violin, which is the leader’s instrument, and as such is supposed to be in the center of attention, is almost entirely inaudible on this album, partly because the leader solos rarely and partly because the heavy, busy sound, which does not allow for the violin to be heard most of the time.
Overall, this album, recorded by excellent musicians, leaves me somewhat cold and sad in a way, as my expectations were very high. Of course this is, as usual, only my very personal opinion, although I did listen to the music several times to avoid a rush judgment.
| | Updated: 18/06/2025Posted: 18/06/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOLFGANG DAUNER ~ MUSIC ZOUNDS
MPS 602498081907 (Barcode: 602498081907) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2003
German pianist / composer Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist is one the most important icons of the European jazz scene. Active since the early 1960’s he has been in the epicenter of the European free jazz since the mid-1960’s and then in the mid-1970’s he also expanded his activities to the jazz-rock scene by forming (with other excellent European jazz musicians) the United Jazz + Rock EnsembleFind albums by this artist. In the last two decades he concentrates on writing film music.
The piano trio, which is playing on this 1970 album, existed for several years prior to this recording, playing mostly free oriented music. Therefore, upon its release Dauner’s followers were completely taken by surprised by the music, which is a classic swinging jazz, almost a parody of swing if you wish. Obviously Dauner wanted to have a joyful, amusing look at the “middle of the road” jazz, which he does lovingly of course. Although at the first impression this music might sound as something done by George ShearingFind albums by this artist, in fact it is quite experimental and sophisticated. On top of the metronome swinging rhythm, Dauner and his phenomenal bassist Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist perform some really hair-rising musical acrobatics. Weber wrote most of the material for this album, in addition to a couple of standards and one tune by his friend, the French violinist Jean-Luc PontyFind albums by this artist.
When asked at the time if this album wouldn’t be in contradiction to his Avant-Garde principles, he answered: “No, I’m not narrow-minded, and I never was. I don’t care what people say about me. The main thing is that the music is good and we all dig it.” I must say I absolutely concur to that statement. This is surely one of the most “good fun” jazz albums ever recorded.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 28/05/2025Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR DOMAGALA & MAREK TOPOROWSKI ~ MUSIC FOR JAZZ GUITAR AND HARPSICHORD
DOX 2010 (Barcode: 5902547020105) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is the debut album by the duo comprising of Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Piotr DomagalaFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Marek ToporowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Domagala and one is by flautist / composer Ryszard BorowskiFind albums by this artist.
The music offers a highly unusual combination of two instruments rarely heard together and offers an exciting, novel sound and conceptual approach, which is truly exciting and aesthetically pleasing. Musically somewhere between Bossa Nova and Baroque Music, with everything in between, the highly melodic tunes serve as basis to extended improvisations, and as already stated the result is absolutely unique.
I admit to be unfamiliar with Toporowski’s accomplishments, which of course is my bad, hopefully to be corrected soon, but he certainly is a Master of the harpsichord, one of my favorite instruments, able to produce a plethora of sounds one would never except to hear from that instrument, which sound absolutely contemporary, if not avant-garde.
I am, however, well acquainted with the superb work by Domagala, who is obviously one of the greatest Polish guitarists, but who is also mostly underappreciated by his peers and the Polish Jazz scene as one. His recording legacy speaks for itself and the usual “being too good for his own good” definitely applies, as far as he is concerned.
Overall, this is a wonderful piece of music, very unusual and unconventional, but which is accessible to a large audience of music connoisseurs, if brought to their attention. Hopefully that will happen, and I can only contribute my wholehearted recommendation. Listeners looking for originality and thinking out of a box, should grab this album unquestionably!
| | Updated: 12/04/2024Posted: 12/04/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TERCET KAMILI DRABEK ~ MUZYKA NAIWNA
SOLITON 951 (Barcode: 5901571099514) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is the debut album by young Polish Jazz trio led by bassist / composer Kamila DrabekFind albums by this artist, with saxophonist Marcin KonieczkowiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Kacper KazmierskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, ten of which are original compositions by Drabek and one is a standard arranged by her. The music was recorded at the Monochrom Studio and engineered by Ignacy GruszeckiFind albums by this artist and offers a wonderful natural sound quality.
The album´s title (Naïve Music in English) is a most appropriate description of its musical contents, which is a collection of seemingly simplistic and minimalist compositions, played without much panache or exhibitionism. All this is an obvious and fully conscious approach by the composer and the trio, trying to keep the music down to its bare components, without polluting it with unnecessary adornment, which is the modus operandi of Naïve Art. Naïve is sadly often confused with primitive or underdeveloped, but in Art it simply means natural / honest / direct rather than limited.
The music presented here is by all means fully developed as are the technical skills of the trio members, and the minimalist approach is extremely effective as far as getting the message through, especially in today´s noise polluted musical environment. As a result the album offers a completely innovative path, which of course is commendable, especially in view of the young age of the musicians involved. It takes a few listening sessions to get to the bottom of these compositions and discover their full blossom, but the effect is definitely worth the effort.
The recording quality of the music allows the listener to hear clearly every nuance of the instrumental work, which under these circumstances is even more important than usual, as every note played counts. As already stated, this kind of natural sound complements this music perfectly.
Overall this is a splendid and very unique debut, which certainly deserves to be heard and rises high hope as to the future if its creators. Very well done!
| | Updated: 07/08/2019Posted: 07/08/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENSEMBLE TUNING XIII ~ MUZYKA NA TRZY INSTRUMENTY
REQUIEM / OPUS 2021/55 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2019 - 2020 Released: 2021
This is the third album by Polish Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Rafal GorzyckiFind albums by this artist, recorded under the Ensemble TuningFind albums by this artist moniker, now with a new variant of the moniker, i.e. Ensemble Tuning XIIIFind albums by this artist. The new lineup is extended into a quartet, which now includes alongside the leader clarinetists Piotr MelechFind albums by this artist and Michal GorczynskiFind albums by this artist and pianist Jakub KrolikowskiFind albums by this artist, which explains the album title, which in English means “Music For Three Instruments” (i.e. clarinet, piano and drums). Guitarist Jakub ZiolekFind albums by this artist guests on the final track. The album presents six original compositions / improvisations, credited to various combinations of the quartet members. The album is a continuation of the two previous recordings by Gorzycki: “PlayingFind albums with this title” (2016) and “Ensemble TuningFind albums with this title” (2018).
I have been following Gorzycki and his work for the last two decades since he first arrived on the Polish Jazz scene as the leader of the Ecstasy ProjectFind albums by this artist (debuted in 2000) and Sing Sing PenelopeFind albums by this artist (debuted in 2004). He is certainly one of the constantly searching and horizon expanding Polish Jazz musicians / composers, with a strong tendency to amalgamate Jazz and contemporary Chamber music.
This album is somewhat surprising as it presents almost entirely Improvised Music elements, which are not necessarily the usual modus operandi as far as Gorzycki is concerned. But the two clarinets, played by my favorite Polish Jazz clarinetists, add some thrilling moments and by the fifth and longest track the ensemble finally finds the nirvana spot and the music becomes magical.
Personally the labeling of the music is somewhat misleading, as this certainly is not contemporary Chamber Classical music, so why try and use that particular label? But besides labeling, this music offers a lot of unexpected vistas, demanding dot-connecting and other cerebral exercises, which are always welcome.
Overall, this is a very unique, unusual and highly demanding listening adventure, but at the same time a highly rewarding experience for open-minded music lovers, who are prepared to take risks in order to expand their horizons. Hats off to Gorzycki for his consistency and tireless searching!
| | Updated: 02/10/2021Posted: 27/09/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | FAMILY ~ MUSIC IN A DOLL`S HOUSE
PUCKA 701 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock
1st album (recorded 1968) by this revolutionary, but sadly underappreciated UK Prog band and one of the greatest masterpieces of rock ever to be recorded. A mixture of blues, psychedelia and progressive elements, with unusual instrumentation and the superb voice of Roger Chapman create this magnificent opus. This is an absolute must in any serious record collection.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HAGIT GOLDBERG ~ MUSICAL & JAZZ
NOT ON LABEL ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 Released: 2005
Although the Israeli Jazz scene developed rapidly in the last two decades, with a constant stream of new talent appearing at an ever-increasing paste, one area remains sadly almost completely uncovered – the jazz vocals. Since the early days of Jazz in Israel (going back 40 years or so) only a handful of female jazz singers (and no male singers at all) made any significant impact: Rimona FrancisFind albums by this artist, Edna GorenFind albums by this artist, Iris PortugalyFind albums by this artist and Hagit GoldbergFind albums by this artist.
Hagit has been around for quite a while. She started her singing career with the Israeli Airforce Big BandFind albums by this artist (which was at a certain period the best Israeli Big Band) and later on she left for the US to study at the Berklee College of Music. She stayed in the US (NY) for several years, performing in Musicals and with her jazz ensemble. Upon returning to Israel few years ago she started to perform on a regular basis and also to teach singing at the Rimon School and the Jerusalem Academy of Music. Over the years she gained a considerable performing experience and polished her act, but sadly never recorded a proper album. Therefore it is a joy to have her first solo album out finally.
On the album she’s accompanied by a most sympathetic quintet, consisting of some of the best Israeli jazz players, led by bassist Arie VolinezFind albums by this artist, who also arranged the music. The repertoire includes a carefully selected set of songs, all of which originate from Broadway musicals. Hagit performs the songs with panache and wonderful taste and her beautiful, sexy voice fills the space with presence and tension. Her interaction with the band is absolutely fantastic, with short but excellent instrumental solos fitted just in the right spots. Listening to the album is an uplifting musical experience, highly recommended to all vocal jazz lovers. It was worth the long wait and one can only hope that the next one will come really soon.
| | Updated: 06/03/2025Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HANDY, JOHN ~ MUSICAL DREAMLAND
BOULEVARD 515 ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
US saxophonist John Handy is a legendary figure on the jazz scene. He was part of the exploding be-bop scene in the late 1940`s and then played for a long time with Charles Mingus. Handy was one of the first jazz musicians to get interested in other musical cultures, especially Indian music, and he incorporated Indian folklore and jazz many times. This wonderful album from 1991 is one of the last things he recorded and it includes Western and Indian musicians playing together. Apart from Handy the participation of the great bass player David Friesen is a wonderful addition.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ MUZYKA POLSKA
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788393067428) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2009 - 2010 Released: 2011
This is a beautiful and very ambitious album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, also involving the great vocalist Grazyna AuguscikFind albums by this artist and two Classical Music soloists: flautist Jadwiga KotnowskaFind albums by this artist and harpist Anna Sikorzak-OlekFind albums by this artist, as well as the AUKSO Chamber OrchestraFind albums by this artist conducted by Marek MosFind albums by this artist. The album presents a seven part Jazz suite for piano trio, voice, string orchestra and soloist, which attempts to "define" what "Polish Music" means in general and especially in the Jazz context as what we understand under the term "Polish Jazz". Five parts of the suite are based on Polish Folk tunes, one is a Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist composition and one is a tune composed by Marcin JanuszkiewiczFind albums by this artist. Jagodzinski and Auguscik arranged the vocal parts and Jagodzinski wrote the elaborate piano trio / string orchestra arrangements.
The concept behind this album obviously points towards the conclusion that contemporary Polish Music / Polish Jazz are a synthesis of the Polish Folk tradition with contemporary music forms. The Polish Folk tradition is most obviously identified with the Polish Folklore dances, such as kujawiak, mazurka, oberek and others, but also with the intrinsic Polish melancholy and lyricism, which create its unique characteristics, which are instantly recognizable to a trained ear. Regardless of the concept, this album is first and foremost a true celebration of music, crossing and bridging between Folklore, Jazz and Classical Music and doing it in an impressive, intelligent and truly beautiful way. All the parts and ideas fall together into an amazing amalgam, which is a delightful listening experience.
The album is also a wonderful platform to enjoy the individual contributions by the participating musicians. Auguscik again proves that she has very little competition on the local scene and her wonderful sensitivity and power of expression are simply stunning. Her appearance on this album is somewhat prophetic in the sense that her album "Inspired By LutoslawskiFind albums with this title", which was recorded four years after this one, would deal with the same subject matter. Jagodzinski, who also plays accordion on this album, and his trio cohorts, as well as the soloists and orchestra all perform spotlessly and harmoniously, with obvious dedication and joy of creation.
This is the best album by far that Jagodzinski recorded during his splendid career, and one of the best attempts to create a coherent musical concept, dedicated to Polish Music. Personally I´d love to see more such attempts done by other musicians. Discovering one´s musical roots and traditions is surely preferable to imitating other cultures.
This album is a pure delight from start to finish and I recommend it wholeheartedly to every Polish Jazz fan, as it reveals many of the innermost secrets about what Polish Jazz really means.
| | Updated: 11/01/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | IRVING JOSEPH ~ MURDER INC.
GAD 034 (Barcode: 5901549197433) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1960 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the cult album by American pianist / composer / arranger / conductor Irving JosephFind albums by this artist originally released in 1960. It presents twelve instrumental pieces, which are an "imaginary soundtrack" to an imaginary crime movie, full of suspense and brilliantly atmospheric ambience. The music is performed by a twelve-piece orchestra, which features many famous studio and Jazz musicians of the era, for example trumpeter Louis MucciFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / clarinetist Phil BodnerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Bucky PizzarelliFind albums by this artist, bassist George DuvivierFind albums by this artist and many others. This is the first time this album is released on CD.
Joseph, primarily known as a pianist, who accompanied such stars as Lena HorneFind albums by this artist, Rita MorenoFind albums by this artist and even Frank SinatraFind albums by this artist, was also a much sought after conductor for many famous Broadway shows, and of course a composer, as documented on this album.
The album was recorded and released at the time as a showcase of the rapid development of the Hi-Fi recording equipment and record technology and was considered an absolute top quality sound recording of the day. This remastered version still sounds absolutely stunning today.
The music is somewhat in the spirit of the Henry ManciniFind albums by this artist´s celebrated "The Pink PantherFind albums with this title" soundtrack, which was recorded three years after this album, and a comparison between these two recordings is pretty intriguing.
Although not intended as a Jazz album at the time, it is in retrospect a bona fide orchestral Jazz of the highest quality, a true masterpiece of the genre, and as such an absolute must in any serious Jazz record collection. Kudos to GADFind albums on this label Records for reviving this treasure!
| | Updated: 25/02/2016Posted: 25/02/2016 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KOITE, HABIB ~ MUSO KO
ALULA 1016 ~ FRANCE ~ World Music & Folklore
Descended from an esteemed line of Malian musician story-tellers, Habib Koite is an internationally acclaimed singer/songwriter and musician. On Muso Ko he uses his guitar to evoke the sound of the kamale n`goni(youth`s harp) and features the talking drum and balafon instruments of his homeland, bringing the varied rhythms of Mali to a new generation while staying true to its rich musical traditions.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | EERO KOIVISTOINEN ~ MUUSA JA RUUSA
SVART 049 (Barcode: 6430050666866) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of a delightful and little known Jazz & Poetry project (this time intended for children) by Finnish composer / saxophonist Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist who wrote the music to poems by Finnish poetess Kirsi KunnaksenFind albums by this artist. He enlisted a group of great vocalists and musicians to realize this album, which include vocalists Vesa-Matti LoiriFind albums by this artist and Eero RaittinenFind albums by this artist, bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Hasse WalliFind albums by this artist, drummer Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist, pianist Eero OjanenFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and many others. The album presents thirteen tracks, three of which are instrumentals and ten have poems as lyrics. All the music and arrangements are by Koivistoinen. This remastered edition offers also the texts of the poems and exact lineup of all the tracks as well as a nice (bilingual) article about the whole project.
Although obviously not a bona fide Jazz project, this album is a great document of Koivistoinen openness and diversity as a musician and composer. Exposing young children to quality music is a crucial part of their Cultural education, a fact that is almost completely neglected today with children being fed absolute infantile rubbish in the media. This album, almost fifty years old, is better and more challenging than most of what passes al children´s music today.
In retrospect this stuff sounds fresh and exciting today, completely contemporary. Even listeners not familiar with the Finnish language should be able to enjoy these fabulous musical stories and get intuitively what they are all about.
Overall this is a wonderful example of the ingenuity of Koivistoinen and the entire Finnish Jazz scene at the time, full of love and understanding of the young souls. Still delightful!
| | Updated: 09/07/2020Posted: 09/07/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ATTILA KOLLAR ~ MUSICAL WITCHCRAFT II - UTOPIA
PERIFERIC 116 ~ HUNGARY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2002
A follow up album to Attila KollarFind albums by this artist`s beautiful debut. It is a continuation of the path set earlier, with Renaissance / Baroque style melodies gently introduced by the flute, which then develop into full Prog instrumentals. Very inteligent and serene music, with depth and gusto, a true delight. All lovers of the first album will surely love this one as well.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ATTILA KOLLAR ~ MUSICAL WITCHCRAFT III – PSALMS & SOUNDTRACK
PERIFERIC 175 (Barcode: 5998272707169) ~ HUNGARY ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
This is the 3rd album by ex-SolarisFind albums by this artist flautist / composer Attila KollarFind albums by this artist with his Musical WitchcraftFind albums by this artist ensemble. The album presents an extended suite, which gives the album its title, and some other studio pieces, as well as a selection of live material, all brilliantly executed by these great Hungarian musicians, who mix Prog with early Classical / Medieval music. The music is almost entirely acoustic and is simply charming all the way through. People who are familiar with Kollar´s previous recordings need no introduction, those who don´t – it´s time to try this stuff out!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOJCIECH KONIKIEWICZ ~ MUZYKA NOWEJ PRZESTRZENI
GAD 111 (Barcode: 5903068120534) ~ POLAND ~ New Age, Relaxation & Meditation
Recorded: 1990 Released: 2020
This is a reissue of the music composed and performed by Polish multi-platform Artist Wojciech KonikiewiczFind albums by this artist, which was originally released on two cassettes in 1993 and is now available on this double CD set. Recorded completely solo during one hot August night in 1990, using just a few synthesizers, the music comprises of four tracks on the first CD and one extended track on the second CD, which lasts for exactly forty five minutes.
Following Konikiewicz experiments with pioneering Avant-Garde Rock, Prog and Jazz music during the 1980s, this ambient / New Age music came as a total surprise from an Artist associated usually with extreme anti-establishment views, uncompromising attitude and non-commercial approach towards life and music as one. This and the fact that the New Age culture, including the music associated with the movement, was almost completely unknown at the time in Poland, which resulted in this music being rejected by the newly (at the time) developing music industry in Poland.
Although synthesizer-based music was extremely popular already from the mid 1970s, it quickly deteriorated to the unbearable synthetic, synthesizer-drenched mindless Pop, which ruled in the 1980s, and which, in retrospect, was the first stage of the decline of the Art of Pop / Rock Music that bloomed during the Golden Era (1965-1975). The New-Age / Ambient music, with its meditative / relaxation / space elements, was in a way the counterculture to that mindless Pop, but again in retrospect, remains to this date a very narrow niche within the worldwide music scene.
What caused Konikiewicz to enter this trans-like state in order to create this music? One can perhaps speculate that the tension of the dramatic / traumatic social / political transformations that took place in Poland shortly before this music was recorded subconsciously pushed him into this meditative creativity state as an escape from the tensions and a need to regain a peace of mind, as well as a need to express his thanks to his Maker, as any religious person, such as Konikiewicz, would succumb to in such circumstances. Seeing Poland Free and Independent again was undoubtedly a deeply spiritual experience for many Poles at that time.
Obviously this is timeless music, being entirely separated from stylistic fads and fashions. It is a kind of pure musical aesthetics, a deeply emotional expressionism floating somewhere between sacral music and ambient sounds of church organs. As such it is deeply related to the state of mind of the listener and igitur able to alter the listener´s state of mind.
It is also a bold, pioneering statement as far as Polish Music is concerned, which passed by almost completely unnoticed at the time, but remains a perfect example of the creativity of the local scene. Connoisseurs of New Age / Ambient Music, but also lovers of contemporary Avant-Garde Classical Music should find this absolutely fascinating. It is a great joy to have this music back in circulation thanks to the incredible people behind GADFind albums on this label Records
| | Updated: 08/03/2020Posted: 16/02/2020 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ KURYLEWICZ / WANDA WARSKA / NIEMEN ~ MUZYKA TEATRALNA I TELEWIZYJNA
MUZA 842 (Barcode: 5907783498428) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2006
Since the day this album was released I´ve always cherished it as one of the greatest albums ever recorded. Undoubtedly my Polish background, my love of the Polish Culture and my ability to understand the lyrics / poetry has something to do with the fact that this album is so meaningful to me, but honestly I believe that any music connoisseur in the world should be moved by this extraordinary music and performances. The music, composed by pianist / composer Andrzej KurylewiczFind albums by this artist, one of Poland´s musical icons and a precursor of Polish Jazz, was originally written for theatre and television and is presented here in a special arrangement for a string orchestra and Jazz combo, featuring two of Poland´s most extraordinary vocal talents: Wanda WarskaFind albums by this artist and NiemenFind albums by this artist. The Jazz combo consists of the composer on piano, trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Wladyslaw JagielloFind albums by this artist. The lyrics are all based on Polish poetry, mainly works of the great Polish poet Cyprian Kamil NorwidFind albums by this artist. Warska, the leading interpreter of Polish poetry and faithful performer of the music composed by Kurylewicz, is a superbly sensitive singer blessed by an angelic voice and extraordinary theatrical sensitivity. Niemen is of course Poland´s all time greatest musical genius known worldwide for his achievements, but his appearance on this album is one of the highlights of his career. Niemen´s "obsession" with Norwid´s poetry comes here to an ideal fruition and his vocal parts are simply breathtaking. Although not strictly a Jazz album, the album´s music has a distinct Jazzy character and falls easily into the extended definition of the genre. Overall this is a masterpiece of rare beauty, perfect in every sense, everlasting and always inspiring. An absolute must in every respect!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | LA VOCE ~ MUSIC FOR VOICES, TRUMPET AND BASS
JARO 4208 (Barcode: 4006180420825) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997
This is the only album by the ensemble La VoceFind albums by this artist, which consists of German trumpeter Ulrich BeckerhoffFind albums by this artist and bassist Hartmut KrachtFind albums by this artist and a vocal trio: British Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Brazilian Rosani ReisFind albums by this artist and Italian Giacomo di BenedettoFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve pieces, mostly composed or co-composed by Beckerhoff with other ensemble members, with one traditional melody and two Brazilian standards.
The music is an eclectic collection of Jazz-World Fusion pieces beautifully arranged for the ensemble, which balances between the vocal parts and trumpet solos, with the bass being the only rhythmic thread. The atmosphere is delicate and somewhat mysteriously lyrical, and although influenced by many World Music elements, is basically very European in its sophisticated ambience and openness.
The vocalists perform an entire spectrum of vocal artistry, from superb vocal harmonies to individual vocalese outings and even a satirical version of Rap, and the album is a wonderful collection of vocal treasures, which connoisseurs of eclectic vocal Jazz performances should be delighted with.
Beckerhoff´s trumpet playing is somewhat similar to Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist´s artistry and therefore the pieces that feature duets between him and Norma Winstone have a familiar resonance to them. Kracht does a truly remarkable job keeping the entire performance in check rhythmically and his round and fully-bodied bass pulsations are a true fundament upon which the music rests.
Overall this is a beautiful, unique and sadly little know project, which still sounds fresh and meaningful over twenty years after it was recorded, and will surely withstand the tides of time successfully in the future. Wholeheartedly recommended and if you can get it, grab a copy!
| | Updated: 10/12/2018Posted: 10/12/2018 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOWBOW ~ MURMURS
EASTRINGS 0002 (Barcode: 194171751134) ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Classical
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is a stunning debut album by Polish duo LowBowFind albums by this artist comprising of bassist / composer Maciej SadowskiFind albums by this artist and cellist / composer Malgorzata ZnarowskaFind albums by this artist. American multi-instrumentalist / composer Kevin Scott DavisFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. GlowwormFind albums by this artist) accompanies the duo on four tracks and four other musicians participate on the final track. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Sadowski, except two which are co-composed by him and Znarowska.
The music is an absolutely marvelous collection of strongly melodic tunes, which elegantly escape genre classification, and flow between Medieval Church Music, contemporary Classical Music, Ambient vistas and whatever else comes to the listener´s mind while experiencing these deeply moving sounds. The stern minimalism, which seemingly rules a priori due to the duo´s instrumental range, proves to be a complete false assumption, as the duo manages often to sound like a full orchestra in spite of the intrinsic limitations, partly due to multi-tracking but mostly due to the power of the music itself. The ambient synthesized sounds on the tracks with Davis´ participation are completely organic with the rest of the material, which leaves only the last track played by a sextet to round things up with a slightly different accent but completely consistent with the rest of the album.
But beyond the unique low key sound, the melodic lyricism and ocean deep melancholy of this music are its most striking characteristics. It easily stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the most profound contemporary Polish Classical Music by such lofty names as Witold LutoslawskiFind albums by this artist, Wojciech KilarFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof PendereckiFind albums by this artist, Henryk GoreckiFind albums by this artist and others. I know this statement will raise a brow or two, but honestly anybody listening to this music should be able to immediately recognize the distinctive "Polishness" it radiates, and although the formalism of the orchestration may still lack the sophistication of the Masters, it has all it takes to make it profoundly beautiful and lasting.
Albums like this make the life of a music reviewer worth living. It is not very often that music of such striking quality lands on my desk in spite of the fact that I get thousands of albums every year. It takes just a few seconds to hear that this is something completely different as far as quality and beauty are concerned and a repeated listening only strengthens this feeling. People who know me are aware of the fact that I am rarely left speechless, but in this case I am truly short of words to say anything more… just listen!
| | Updated: 23/11/2019Posted: 23/11/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDY LUMPP TRIO / ANDRZEJ PRZYBIELSKI ~ MUSIC FROM PLANET EARTH
NABEL 4687 (Barcode: 4011471468721) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2000
This is an album by German pianist / composer Andy LumppFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio: bassist Heinrich ChastcaFind albums by this artist and drummer Stefan HoelkerFind albums by this artist and with the legendary Polish trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents a live (but without an audience) recording of twelve improvised pieces, co-credited to all the four participating musicians. This is the first of the two albums recorded by the same quartet on the German NabelFind albums on this label Records label.
The music is a typical European Free Jazz / Improvised Music setting, which develops slowly and allows for the interaction between the musicians to build up step by step, creating a cohesive and coherent musical expression. The music is mostly subdued and somewhat melancholic, exposing fragments of melodic themes and regular rhythms, which quickly dissolve into the next chapter of the improvisation.
The individual performances are all excellent and show the great respect and comradeship between the players, which allows for solo, duo, trio and quartet passages, all worked out in real time. For Free Jazz / Improvised Music connoisseurs this is an instant classic. Przybielski plays some incredible phrases here and his superb dynamics, power of expression and genius are captured here for posterity.
The album is a very important part of Przybielski´s relatively limited discography, being one of the very few recordings capturing him with musicians coming from outside of Poland and also one of the recordings with a very high recording quality, which enables proper presentation of the incredibly diverse range of sounds produced by him.
Overall this is an excellent album in the Free Jazz / Improvised Music idiom, definitely worth seeking out and for Polish Jazz collectors this is an absolute must!
| | Updated: 14/02/2022Posted: 14/02/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDY LUMPP TRIO / ANDRZEJ PRZYBIELSKI ~ MUSICA EX SPIRITU SANCTO
NABEL 4694 (Barcode: 4011471469421) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2002
This is an album by German pianist / composer Andy LumppFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio: bassist Heinrich ChastcaFind albums by this artist and drummer Stefan HoelkerFind albums by this artist and with the legendary Polish trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents a live recording of an eight-part musical improvisation, recorded in a monastery. All the music is co-credited to the four musicians participating in the recording. This is the second of the two albums recorded by the same quartet.
The music is a typical European Free Jazz / Improvised Music conception, which develops slowly and allows for the interaction between the musicians to build up step by step, creating a cohesive and coherent musical expression. The music is mostly subdued and somewhat melancholic, exposing fragments of melodic themes and regular rhythms, which quickly dissolve into the next chapter of the improvisation.
The individual performances are all excellent and show the great respect and comradeship between the players, which allows for solo, duo, trio and quartet passages, all worked out in real time. For Free Jazz / Improvised Music connoisseurs this is an instant classic. Przybielski plays some incredible phrases here and his superb dynamics, power of expression and genius are captured here for posterity.
The album is a very important part of Przybielski´s relatively limited discography, being one of the very few recordings capturing him with musicians coming from outside of Poland and also one of the recordings with a very high recording quality, which enables proper presentation of the incredibly diverse range of sounds produced by him.
Overall this is an excellent album in the Free Jazz idiom, definitely worth seeking out and for Polish Jazz collectors this is an absolute must!
| | Updated: 14/02/2022Posted: 02/05/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALBERT MANGELSDORFF ~ MUSIC FOR JAZZ ORCHESTRA
SKIP 9039 (Barcode: 4037688903923) ~ GERMANY ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is an album by legendary German Jazz trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, recorded with the phenomenal NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist, which features some of the best German Jazz musicians, like trumpeter Ingolf BurkhardtFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and my Friend, Polish (resident in Germany) pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, five of which are the movements of suite, which gives the album its title, and the other two are additional pieces selected for this recording, all composed by Mangelsdorff. This album, recorded in 2002, was the last recording by Mangelsdorff, before he died in 2005.
The music is everything one might expect from Mangelsdorff and the NDR, superbly composed and executed, beautifully illustrating the European approach to Jazz Big Band, and featuring some outstanding soloing by Mangelsdorff and the NDR members. The music is complex and although based on coherent melodic themes, the arrangements call for extended multilayered interplays between the band sections, and the soloist improvise openly, often even Freely. This is about as sophisticated as Big Band Jazz gets and certainly quite different of the widespread perception of what a Jazz Big Band sound like.
Mangelsdorff’s role as one of the founding Fathers of the European Jazz is invaluable and his collected recorded legacy is a reflection of his Genius captured for posterity. He always was an “out of the box” thinker and I consider myself lucky to have met him and enjoyed his company and knowledge, which deeply influenced me over the years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unique Jazz Big Band album, probably one of the best ever recorded in that format, featuring sensational performances by the band and the soloists, including Mangelsdorff, who was still at excellent form despite his age. For Jazz Big Band enthusiasts this is an absolutely essential recording, but all lovers of Mangelsdorff’s unique talent will find this album indispensable. Stunning stuff!
| | Updated: 06/09/2024Posted: 06/09/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ MUSIC SPOKEN HERE
WOUNDED BIRD 3723 ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983
After his ferrocious experiments with Fusion (Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist) and World Music (ShaktiFind albums by this artist), by the early 80`s McLauglin settled in Europe again (Paris to be exact - where he lived with his companion, the wonderful pianist Katia LabequeFind albums by this artist, who also plays on this album). This album captures a return to more jazzy surroundings, based mostly on the interplays between guitar and the two keyboards players. Bass gives the additional rhythm basis and there are no drums! This is most elegant, intimate and wonderful music one can imagine, always fresh and rewarding.
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MERKIN ~ MUSIC FROM MERKIN MANOR
GEAR FAB 109 (Barcode: 645270010924) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 1997
Only album by the obscure US band MerkinFind albums by this artist. Full of psychedelic influences, this is another gem from the past, clearly showing that there was much undiscovered talent around in those years. The album was an insanely expensive collector`s item before this CD reissue.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ MUSIC FOR MR. FORTUNA
SJP 002 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is a very unusual album in every respect and a wonderful illustration of the diversity, ingenuity and continued tradition of the Polish Jazz scene. It features nine original compositions by veteran Polish Jazz composer / vibraphonist Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, one of the legendary Godfathers of the local scene, including a two part composition which gave this album its title, which the composer created especially for the great upcoming Polish Jazz trumpeter Maciej FortunaFind albums by this artist. Both Milian and Fortuna hail from the city of Poznan. The album also features an unconventional packaging in a form of a triangle, which easily wins the title of most awkwardly packaged album in recent times. The music is performed by a quartet, which includes Fortuna on trumpet, pianist Krzysztof DysFind albums by this artist, bassist Jakub MielcarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Przemyslaw JaroszFind albums by this artist, which is occasionally also supported by a string quartet.
The music is all within the mainstream Jazz idiom, full of typical Milian´s melancholy and lyricism, which have always characterized his compositions. The execution is also rather constrained, fully delivering the beautiful melodic themes and elegantly incorporating the gentle quartet string arrangements. It is the most "conventional" album by Fortuna as of late, which emphasizes his deep respect for the Jazz tradition at its best.
The personal performances are, as expected, top notch. The music does not push Fortuna to exhibit the full power of his virtuosic abilities, but it definitely shows his elegance and finesse as a mainstream player. Dys is as masterly as always, here playing mostly the electric piano with great taste and his typical sense of humor. Mielcarek supports the soloists amicably and his strong pulse is the platform upon which the music moves forward. Jarosz keeps respectfully in the background, delicately adding his rhythmic support.
The title track (in two parts) is the most complex and advanced piece of music on this album and shows the full power of the quartet and the individual abilities at their best. But overall this is a very nice musical adventure which should be enjoyed by all Polish Jazz fans and the many followers of Fortuna.
The music is available as a free downloadable mobile app and of course is definitely recommended!
| | Updated: 14/03/2017Posted: 14/03/2017 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | PATRICK MORAZ / BILL BRUFORD ~ MUSIC FOR PIANO AND DRUMS
WINTERFOLD 001 ~ SWITZERLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983
1st album by the Patrick MorazFind albums by this artist / Bill BrufordFind albums by this artist duo. Although both musiciabs are ex-YesFind albums by this artist members, they actually never played together in the band. Another thing they have in common is of course their fascination with Jazz and improvised music, and their 2 albums shows that beyond any doubt. Although duo albums can be difficult to digest sometimes, this album is so full of excitment and beauty that no music lover should have any problem with enjoying this!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | OREGON ~ MUSIC OF ANOTHER PRESENT ERA
VANGUARD 79326 (Barcode: 090204820542) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
2nd album from 1972. Oregon formed in 1970 by four brilliant jazz instrumentalists, who played together in the Paul Winter Consort, where they absorbed many non-jazz influences - mainly World Music. The group developed into one of the most important and influential US ensembles, with music reaching far beyond the expected and anticipated. The mixture of jazz improvisations and World Music themes is extremely beautiful.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAATZ / BIELAK / MACKIEWICZ ~ MUTUAL INFLUENCES
RG 108 ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz trio comprising of guitarist Boguslaw RaatzFind albums by this artist, violinist Robert BielakFind albums by this artist and percussionist Daniel MackiewiczFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded live in the studio and presents three original compositions uncredited on the album’s artwork and assumably co-composed by the three participants. Raatz and Bielak cooperated earlier as members of the group Question MarkFind albums by this artist, Bielak appeared on the first three albums by Light CoorporationFind albums by this artist and Mackiewicz played for many years in Sing Sing PenelopeFind albums by this artist and with Raatz in Ritual Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist. In short these are highly experienced and talented musicians.
The music is mostly improvised, based on sketchy melodic framework, which serves as the basis for extended improvisations by the trio, which float between World Music and Fusion climates. The lengthy tracks, especially the opening one, which last for over twenty-two minutes, is an epic journey moving between relaxed quiet stretches and peeks of intense soloing by the guitar or violin, accompanied by percussive Eastern rhythmic pulsations.
The jam session atmosphere that prevails throughout the album offers a trans-like sonic adventure that is fascinating to follow, completely engulfing the listener in the process, inviting to sink deeply into the flow. But of course one can also follow the intricate details of the improvisations, if so inclined.
Overall, this is a highly emotional musical experience for the open-minded listener, involving superb instrumental performances and strong group improvisations, which are much more inviting than most such excursions. Both World Music and Fusion fans should find this music very agreeable. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 31/07/2022Posted: 31/07/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | YONI RECHTER ~ MUSIC IS WHAT COUNTS
TAV 8 (Barcode: 7290105161734) ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2012
This is a wonderful live recording by Israel´s most important composer / pianist / vocalist Yoni RechterFind albums by this artist. In the last 40 years Rechter enriched the Israeli Culture by a vast amount of absolutely superb songs, which are all instant classics. His monumental talents, completely unique approach to melody and profound lyricism are unparalleled and have always been a beacon of light in the dreary musical landscape, which usually surrounds us. Rechter´s songs have been an important catalyst, which launched the careers of many top Israeli artists, such as Gidi GovFind albums by this artist, Yehudith RavitzFind albums by this artist and many others. This recording captures a performance at the annual "Piano Festival", which gave Rechter an opportunity to produce a marvelous retrospective of his work, featuring his old and new songs and performing them with many guests, who came to pay a well deserved tribute to his genius. Rechter plays piano and keyboards and is accompanied by a small ensemble with consists of guitarist Aharoni BenariFind albums by this artist, bassist Yorai OronFind albums by this artist and drummer Tal CohenFind albums by this artist. Several other musicians also take part, including the excellent saxophonist Eli DegibriFind albums by this artist, percussionist Joca PerpignanFind albums by this artist and a string quartet. Several guest vocalists take part in the recording, including Yehudith Ravitz, NatanelaFind albums by this artist, Rona KeinanFind albums by this artist and Shlomi ShabanFind albums by this artist. There is so much wonderful music included here, that it seems almost ridiculous to recommend it to others, but honestly anybody, who loves Israeli music, or just quality music, regardless of where it comes from, will enjoy this immensely. A masterpiece!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL RODGERS ~ MUDDY WATER BLUES
EAGLE 222 (Barcode: 5034504122222) ~ UK ~ Blues
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2002
British vocalist Paul RodgersFind albums by this artist is without a doubt the greatest white Blues singer of all times. Since his days as the front man of the legendary FreeFind albums by this artist and in the five decades that followed no other vocalist managed to demonstrate the same level of sensitivity, virtuosity and feeling even remotely close to those of Rodgers. This stunning album, which as the title suggests is a tribute to the great Blues singer / songwriter Muddy WatersFind albums by this artist, finds Rodgers performing the classic material with flare and his usual brilliance. He is accompanied by a horde of great guitarists, all paying tribute to the great Godfather of Blues: Jeff BeckFind albums by this artist, David GilmourFind albums by this artist, Buddy GuyFind albums by this artist, Brian MayFind albums by this artist, Steve MillerFind albums by this artist, Gary MooreFind albums by this artist, Trevor RabinFind albums by this artist, Neal SchonFind albums by this artist, SlashFind albums by this artist and a few others. Anything else said about this music is completely redundant – just grab it when you can as this is one of the greatest Blues albums ever recorded!
| | | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HAROLD RUBIN / JEAN CLAUDE JONES ~ MUSE & MUSIC
KADIMA COLLECTIVE 03 ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2005
This album documents the musical / spiritual meeting between the two leaders of the Israeli improvised music scene. Harold RubinFind albums by this artist started the movement on the late 1980’s, after his legendary group ZaviotFind albums by this artist disbanded, leading a long series of ensembles active in the Tel-Aviv area, where he lives. Jean Claude JonesFind albums by this artist (or J.C. to his friends) arrived on the scene at about the same time, playing with another legendary group KedmaFind albums by this artist (both Zaviot and Kedma released their albums on JazzisFind albums on this label Records). Later on Jones played with many different ensembles in the Jerusalem area, where he lives, and founded the Kadima CollectiveFind albums on this label – an association of improvising artists (cross-genre), which now independently releases various projects on record. Their path crossed many times over the years but they somehow failed to record together and this much overdue album puts things right at last. The intimate duo of clarinet and electro acoustic bass is the foundation of the music, with Harold reciting / voicing his poetry on top and Jones adding live electronics occasionally, all of those based on musical telepathy and interplay between the creators. This is intense stuff, requiring total attentiveness and open-mindedness, but for people who are willing to stretch out their intellectual muscles the rewards are infinite. Sadly, there is very little music of such quality being made anywhere in the wold these days.
| | | CD-R 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SING SING PENELOPE ~ MUSIC FOR UMBRELLAS
MONOTYPE 008 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
This is the 2nd album by the incredible Polish Jazz ensemble Sing Sing PenelopeFind albums by this artist, led by drummer Rafal GorzyckiFind albums by this artist and also including trumpeter Wojciech JachnaFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tomasz GlazikFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Daniel MackiewiczFind albums by this artist and bassist Patryk WeclawekFind albums by this artist. Violinist Sebastian GruchotFind albums by this artist guests on one track. They play all original music, composed mostly by Gorzycki and Jachna or credited to the ensemble. Stylistically this is an incredible mixture of many elements from Jazz, Rock, Ambient, RIO and other areas, completely eluding any attempt of pinpointing or categorization. They are definitely one of the most interesting and most consistently excellent ensembles currently active on the Polish scene, which of course is a major compliment. All these players are excellent instrumentalist, the music is fresh, unusual and truly intelligent, but in spite its complex nature manages to embrace the element of melody, which is often mostly lost in adventurous attempts tried by others. I suppose that if Frank ZappaFind albums by this artist was alive today, he´d have loved to play with these young musicians behind him, but so would a lot of other great musicians. In any case this, and the other recordings by this group, is a beacon of hope that not all is lost in music in the 21st Century. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MUSIC 81 (POLISH JAZZ VOL.69)
MUZA 969 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2004
Probably the most famous Polish musician worldwide, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, acheived a legendary status as a virtuoso trumpet player of the same maginutude as Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. An original member of the legendary Kszysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist Quintet and a founding father of Polish Jazz, Stanko never allowed himself to become stagnant and his ever evolving musical style has been at the very front of modern jazz since 4 decades. This album presents him in the best form, playing with young musicians (except drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist - another veteran) and as usual playing his wonderful compositions, which range from minimalistic fiffs to beautifully lyrical melodies. A true gem!
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  | JEREMY STEIG & EDDIE GOMEZ ~ MUSIC FOR FLUTE & DOUBLE BASS / RAIN FOREST
ART OF GROOVE 80242 (Barcode: 885513802422) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 - 1980 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of two excellent albums recorded by the two American Jazz Masters, flautist / composer Jeremy SteigFind albums by this artist and bassist / composer Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist. "Music For Flute & Double BassFind albums with this title", recorded in 1978, is a duo album which finds Steig and Gomez exchanging licks in an intimate setting, while "Rain ForestFind albums with this title", recorded in 1980, finds them in the company of several musicians: Austrian guitarist Karl RatzerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike NockFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionists Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist and Ray BarrettoFind albums by this artist. Both albums are remastered and each features one bonus track recorded by the duo live during the 1978 Berlin Jazz Days. Both albums were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label and present all original material composed by Steig and Gomez.
Steig and Gomez go together way back to the 1960s, when they were members of the proto Fusion band Jeremy & The SatyrsFind albums by this artist, and their paths crossed regularly over the years. They have developed over time a rare affinity and understanding between themselves, which comes into beautiful fruition on these albums.
The duo album is a superb opportunity to witness the incredible virtuosity these two players are capable of delivering, as well as enjoy their telepathic dialogues. The studio environment enables them to multi track and overlay several instruments in parallel, producing a richer and more impressive sonic result, without disturbing the intimacy and delicacy of that session.
The group album presents several different lineups from the list of participants above, and is an orgy of brilliant performances, polyrhythmic complexity and joy of life. Many excellent solos chase one another and everybody gets an opportunity to show their chops, as appropriate for the occasion. It is much more Fusion oriented than the intimate duo album.
Musically these albums amalgamate many different influences, obviously based on the Jazz tradition but incorporating many World Music characteristics, some Fusion tendencies and even contemporary Classical music vistas. Sadly these two albums never enjoyed the popularity they truly deserved and therefore this is a great opportunity to get hold of them again for a very fair price. After all this music should definitely be part of every serious music collection.
| | Updated: 28/06/2016Posted: 28/06/2016 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | CECIL TAYLOR ~ MUSIC FROM TWO CONTINENTS
FSR 2021/16 (Barcode: 5904441617009) ~ USA ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2021
This is archival album recorded live in 1984 at the annual Jazz Jamboree festival in Warsaw. It presents an international ensemble led by American pianist / composer Cecil TaylorFind albums by this artist and ten additional players, both Americans and Europeans (hence the title), which includes Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Italian trumpeter Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist, German trombonist Conrad BauerFind albums by this artist, American saxophonists Jimmy LyonsFind albums by this artist and Frank Wright Jr.Find albums by this artist, Danish saxophonist John TchicaiFind albums by this artist, American bassoonist Karen LyonsFind albums by this artist, German bass clarinetist / vibraphonist Gunter HampelFind albums by this artist, American bassist William ParkerFind albums by this artist and drummer Henry MartinezFind albums by this artist. The album presents one continuous track lasting for almost sixty-two minutes.
The music is spontaneously improvised by the eleven members of the ensemble, based on directions / ideas put forward by the leader. It has little variation in tempo and intensity and offers a brilliant example of group improvisation, which in this case is performed by some of the leaders of the genre, all assembled on one stage at the same time.
There are many extensive solo fragments performed by individual musicians, supported in the background by the ensemble members, as well as solos played concurrently by several musicians, with Taylor and the rhythm section playing continuously.
For listeners not familiar with Free Jazz / Improvised Music all this might of course sound like a complete chaos, which has no meaning whatsoever, but a trained ear is able to hear both the group dynamics and the individual contributions, which are often stellar. Improvised Music requires certain “brainwaves” activity, which only some humans are equipped with.
The fact that this music was recorded in Warsaw and that Stanko was invited to take part in the concert speaks volumes about how highly Poland and Polish musicians were regarded at the time by the international scene, despite the fact that it was still deeply behind the Iron Curtain. Stanko of course proves that he is able to stand shoulder to shoulder both with the other Europeans and the Americans.
Overall, this is an important document of the genre and the Polish Jazz scene at the time. The music was of course recorded by the Polish Radio, which recorded all Jazz Jamboree concerts, and the fact that it was dug out and released by the FSRFind albums on this label label, means that those radio archives are terribly neglected.
| | Updated: 31/01/2022Posted: 31/01/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KESTUTIS VAIGINIS ~ MUSICAL CONVERSATIONS
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 4772145016999) ~ LITHUANIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is an album by Lithuanian saxophonist / composer Kestutis VaiginisFind albums by this artist recorded in NY in a classic sextet setting with Russian (resident in US) trumpeter Alex SipiaginFind albums by this artist and Boris KozlovFind albums by this artist and American trombonist Andy HunterFind albums by this artist, pianist David KikoskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Donald EdwardsFind albums by this artist. A string quartet is featured on one track. The album presents eleven original compositions, four by the leader, two each by Sipiagin and Edwards and one each by Kikoski, Kozlov and Hunter.
The music is all within the modern mainstream Jazz idiom, based on very solid and coherent compositions, including several lyrical ballads, which are excellent. The performances and the recording quality are absolutely perfect, as expected from these world class musicians.
Most of the soloing is naturally performed by the leader, who plays soprano, alto and tenor saxophones and bass clarinet, all with the same level of excellence. But all the members of the sextet get ample opportunity to show their licks.
Overall, this is a classic mainstream Jazz album, which offers first-rate music and performances from start to finish, diverse compositions and obvious aesthetic values. It is a relatively rare opportunity to hear Jazz originating from Lithuania, which is less prominent outside the country’s borders. It is also a wonderful proof of the camaraderie and complete lack of barriers between Jazz musicians from all over the world. One can only wish that similar harmony could be achieved in other areas. Very well done, indeed!
| | Updated: 21/02/2022Posted: 21/02/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KENNY WHEELER ~ MUSIC FOR LARGE & SMALL ENSEMBLES
ECM 1415/16 (Barcode: 042284315227) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1990
Trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist has been one of the great pillars of the British and international Jazz scene for five consecutive decades. His role as one of the most creative protagonists of the British / European Jazz revolution in the 1960s / 1970s was invaluable, but Wheeler continued his seemingly endless streak of creativity into the 21st Century, staying relevant and up to date, with very few rivaling forces of his magnitude. This album, in retrospect, is in many respects a pinnacle of his recording career and firmly belongs to the exclusive club of the top Jazz recordings of all time. Wheeler present here some of his best and most ambitious compositions, both as a composer for a large Jazz orchestra and a small Jazz combo, like the quintet featured here. The list of names of the participating musicians – all 19 of them – reads like the who´s who of modern British Jazz with a couple of American guests (guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist) added for good measure. Pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, his wife the divine vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist, trombonist Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist are just the more familiar of these names. The music is of course heavenly, regardless of the large or small format, both melodically, harmonically and structurally. Wheeler emerges as a Master composer and bandleader and the resulting music is a source of immense pleasure, both aesthetically and intellectually. This is a masterpiece and an essential piece of music, which is a worthy addition to any serious music library. Beyond essential!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Truly (and surprisingly) "Essential"; I generally avoid large ensembles, but this is different as the individual voices of the specific participants were planned for and can be clearly heard
| | | CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KUBA WIECEK ~ MULTITASKING (POLISH JAZZ VOL.82)
WARNER MUSIC POLAND 190295475918 (Barcode: 190295475918) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019
This is the second album by the young Polish Jazz saxophonist Kuba WiecekFind albums by this artist recorded with the same trio like the debut released two years earlier, which includes bassist Michal BaranskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Lukasz ZytaFind albums by this artist. Keyboardist Marcin MaseckiFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Wiecek.
Wiecek "exploded" on the local Jazz scene with the release of his debut album, which was released as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series, same as this one (see below). Immediately hailed as a wunderkind, youngest ever Jazz prodigy and the "darling" of the local scene and hyped by the media to ridiculous proportions, Wiecek never had a true chance to be seriously analyzed and evaluated as a player and composer. The debut album had its moments, but was recorded way too early before the material had a chance to be polished and mature during live performances and in retrospect was no more than a promise of better things to come in the future.
This album is undoubtedly a much more accurate document of Wiecek´s many talents with the emphasis on his compositions, which are obviously unique and innovative. This album is in fact a collection of short ditties, ingenious and full of humor, masterly conceived and consistently fascinating. But the short duration of these ten pieces, lasting together under forty minutes, allows only to present the melodic / rhythmic ideas, but there is not enough time left to allow for any extended improvisations, which after all is expected from a Jazz album. Strangely, although this album was recorded at the best Polish recording studio (Monochrom Studio, with Ignacy GruszeckiFind albums by this artist presiding) it offers a muddy and thin sound, which does not help at all.
Happily I have had the opportunity to hear the trio live many times in the last two years and can gladly testify that this material and the trio sound infinitely better on stage than on this album. Wiecek and his cohorts are stage animals and they put up a superb live show, taking this material places hardly imaginable, when listening to the studio album. I have also heard Wiecek play many times in jam sessions, where his adaptability and diversity was tested to the max, and which he always survived like a true knight in shining armor, without any hype miles around.
Wiecek is undoubtedly one of the most ingenious, talented and promising upcoming young Polish Jazz musicians in addition to his charming personality. He is definitely destined to go places and the world is at his feet. I am happy to see that the hype around him did not manage to spoil and hurt him as much as it could have done and it was just an episode better left behind.
He is still to record his defining album though.
Side Note
The iconic "Polish Jazz" series of recordings, originally released between 1965 and 1989 by the Polish state owned record company Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label, which used the MuzaFind albums on this label label as its moniker, consists of seventy six LP albums. It presents the history of Polish Jazz recordings during that period, which includes some of the most important Polish / European modern Jazz milestones and reflects the extraordinary development of Jazz music behind the Iron Curtain. It is one of the most important historic documents of Polish Music and of course Polish Culture in general.
The series had an eminent logo designed by Roslaw Szaybo and the albums were numbered sequentially from Vol.1 to Vol.76 accordingly. The album's artwork was wonderfully stylish and modernist, featuring the brilliant photographs and characteristic design by the legendary Polish Artist Marek Karewicz.
Stylistically the series presented all Jazz genres, from Traditional Jazz to Avant-Garde / Free Jazz, which was extraordinarily liberal considering the cultural censorship imposed by the Socialist Regime. It suffered from some inconsistency, as far as the musical quality and aesthetics were concerned, as well as the internal "politics" of the Polish Jazz scene at the time, but in retrospect it achieved a spectacular overall result, unparalleled as far as consistently documenting a national Jazz scene is concerned.
After the Polskie Nagrania catalogue was bought by Warner Music PolandFind albums on this label, the new owner started a reissue process of the Polish Jazz series, carefully remastered, repackaged and including extensive liner notes, which keeps the artwork as close to the original design as possible. So far forty four volumes of the original series were reissued.
In 2016 Warner Music Poland decided to continue the original series by releasing new contemporary Polish Jazz recordings under the same format and even to continue the sequential numbering starting with Vol.77 – a decision I personally consider almost sacrilegious. Some things are simply untouchable, and the "Polish Jazz" series is surely one of those things. If Warner Music Poland wants to produce Jazz albums, which is always more than welcome, they could have started a new series, under a new title, rather than exploiting the reputation of the historic series.
As a result, some artist whose albums are released as part of the new series might be led to expect instant gratification, fame and stardom, just for being an artificial part of a prestigious past, which of course is as bogus as it is sad.
| | Updated: 02/01/2020Posted: 02/01/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR ZACZEK ~ MUTRU
ARMS 02 (Barcode: 5900238791013) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006
This is the debut solo album by Polish Jazz bassist / composer Piotr ZaczekFind albums by this artist, recorded with several fellow musicians, such as saxophonist Maciej KocinskiFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Jerzy MalekFind albums by this artist, violinist Adam BaldychFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Marcin GornyFind albums by this artist and Grzegorz JablonskiFind albums by this artist, and drummer Robert LutyFind albums by this artist. Two vocalists: Ania SzarmachFind albums by this artist and Kuba BadachFind albums by this artist take care of the vocal parts. The album includes fifteen compositions, thirteen of which are by Zaczek, one by Szarmach and the remaining one is a Pop song.
The music is heavily oriented towards Fusion, Funk and Ambient, featuring the bass as a leading instrument. The musicians provide some exciting solos and vocals, but overall this is electric bass haven, and people who love the sound of fretless bass will definitely enjoy this album to the max. Zaczek is obviously a virtuoso and some of his licks are quite phenomenal. No wonder he is one of the most sought after session musicians in Poland.
As much as I enjoy my Fusion and Funk, the Ambient soundscapes are less exciting, especially electronic programmed drums. Of course I realize they are an integral part of what Zaczek wanted to present here, and they are very well done, just that particular sound somehow doesn´t sit well with me. Several of the album tracks are plays solo by Zaczek, who plays basses, keyboards and programmed the drums, others are performed by a duet, trio etc. There is enough diversity and certainly a lot of excellent performances to make this a nice album to listen to.
Of course this is on the lighter side of Jazz and geared mostly towards Fusion fans, which are the natural habitat for this music. Of course bass players should be fairly warned that hearing this album might be very frustrating for some of them ;)
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