Record Reviews

ALBERT BEGER ~ PEACEMAKER ANOVA 028 (Barcode: 7290011799281) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010 Although Israeli Jazz produced a vast amount of great musicians in its short life-span, many of which are now world-famous and enjoy success, especially on the NY scene, the two brightest and most visionary Israeli Jazz figures remain relatively anonymous outside of their homeland: clarinetist Harold RubinFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Albert BegerFind albums by this artist. Although separated by a generation gap, both Rubin and Beger made the decision of take the less-treaded path of Free Jazz and Improvised Music, shunning any commercial or non-artistic influences and remaining always true to their inner call. This is the 9th album by Albert Beger in 15 years of his recording legacy, adding another invaluable layer to his artistic heritage. Always re-inventing himself and arising life a phoenix from the ashes of whatever occupied his musical mindset previously, Beger presents here a new approach, using a new ensemble, which includes guitarist Ido BukelmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Assaf HakimiFind albums by this artist, drummer Dan BenediktFind albums by this artist and Avi ElbazFind albums by this artist on electronics. This rejuvenated ensemble creates a completely new sound and enables Beger to explore new vistas, previously uncharted, like Rock rhythms and electronic ambience. As usual, he composed and arranged all the music, which is remarkably fresh and uplifting and also surprisingly melodic at times, which results in the music being probably more accessible to a larger audience than previously. But of course this new direction does not, by any means, signify any artistic compromises or "selling out". This is still absolutely brilliant music, intelligent and complex as always, and full of inner beauty and depth. It´s definitely time for Beger to be "discovered", as whatever he has to offer musically is no less valuable that anything else being created anywhere, and probably more so. This is essential stuff for mind and body – just let it in!

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NICOLAS MEIER ~ PEACEFUL MGP 022 (Barcode: 5051078970325) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019 This is a wonderful album by Swiss born and resident in UK virtuoso guitarist / composer Nicolas MeierFind albums by this artist recorded with his World GroupFind albums by this artist quartet, which also includes violinist Richard JonesFind albums by this artist, bassist Kevin GlasgowFind albums by this artist and Spanish percussionist Demi Garcia SabatFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Meier. Playing only acoustic guitars, Meier concentrates this time on a beautifully serene, relaxed amalgam of acoustic World Music inspired themes, which encompass a kaleidoscopic vista of Gypsy, Samba, Middle Eastern, Spanish, Turkish and other Folkloristic elements, combined with Jazz inspired improvisation. Although these influences have always been present in his music over the years, this is probably the most "ethnic" album he recorded so far and certainly the most diverse musically. It is difficult to imagine that one person is able to compose such an assortment of music originating from distant, both geographically and musically sources. Nevertheless Meier manages to stand up to the challenge with ease and elegance and all these pieces sound as authentic as if they were composed by nine musicians originating from different corners of the world. Meier´s guitar playing is of course the focus of this music, and he never ceases to amaze with his virtuosic touch and incredible feel for the music he plays. The three musicians accompanying him on this album are truly ideal companions for the task. Jones adds to the melodic and harmonic richness of the overall sound, Glasgow sets the pulse of the music keeping the bottom range busy with a layer of sound upon which the music flows gently and finally Garcia is the key element as far as the diverse rhythmic requirements are concerned, handling the difficult odd time signatures with precision and confidence. Overall this is stunning trip round our musical world, which is performed by true Artists, who put their soul into the music. For people, who are not familiar with Meier´s music, this is an absolutely perfect introduction. For connoisseurs of Jazz-World Fusion this album is an unconditional must. Completely wholeheartedly recommended! Thank you my Friend for the gift of music!

Updated: 26/09/2021Posted: 09/08/2019

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

ZINGALE ~ PEACE EARSAY 050 ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1975 Legendary album by the Israeli group ZingaleFind albums by this artist, who mixed Prog and Psychedelic elements to create the first true Prog record recorded in the country. It`s also the most famous Israeli album among Prog collectors around the world. The music was very innovative for the period and their reputation is well deserved.

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