Record Reviews

BRAND, DOLLAR ~ AFRICAN SPACE PROGRAM ENJA 2032 ~ USA ~ Jazz AMG Review: Still known as Dollar BrandFind albums by this artist at the time of this recording, Abdullah IbrahimFind albums by this artist had his first encounter with a large ensemble on African Space Program, and the results are quite successful. Despite a muddy sound quality, this is music built on infectious themes and played with verve by a fine cast of instrumentalists. The first part of "Tintiyana," entirely written, is redolent of Ellington and Mingus, all churning low tones and percussion. When the second portion begins, the mood turns celebratory with a striding, gospel-imbued theme supporting heroic solos from all involved. Several of the musicians on hand were generally involved with the Avant-Garde end of the jazz spectrum at the time, and their playing is full of bite and a risk-taking nature that greatly enlivens the proceedings. The companion piece, Jabulani-Easter Joy," is similarly structured, though here the theme bears a striking, if accidental, resemblance to the central melody of "Jesus Christ, Superstar" (!). The soloing is perhaps even more rambunctious than on "Tintiyana," and brings the album to a quite rousing conclusion. Among all the fine work, special mention should be made of the rhythm team of Cecil McBeeFind albums by this artist and Roy BrooksFind albums by this artist who, along with the leader´s relentless and driving accompaniment, pace the ensemble beautifully and add their own superb solo statements.

Updated: 27/10/2026Posted:

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ABDULLAH IBRAHIM / WDR BIG BAND ~ BOMBELLA INTUITION 3430 (Barcode: 750447343023) ~ SOUTH AFRICA ~ Big Band Jazz Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009 This is an album by South African pianist / composer Abdullah IbrahimFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Dollar BrandFind albums by this artist), recorded with the brilliant German WDR Big BandFind albums by this artist, conducted by British pianist / composer / arranger Steve GrayFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, all original compositions by Ibrahim, except one dedicated to Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, which also includes one of his compositions, all of which were arranged for the Big Band by Gray. Ibrahim / Brand spent many years in exile in Europe and for many years lived in Germany, where he recorded many albums for the EnjaFind albums on this label label. He converted to Islam in 1968 but continued to use his original name (Dollar Brand) for many years, since his initial success was achieved under that name. He died in Germany in June of 2026. The music is a selection of his compositions written over many years, but the Big Band arrangements are quite radical and present the music in a completely new musical environment, quite different from his usual solo piano / piano trio recordings, somewhat loosing contact with the spiritual aura they were originally composed in, but on the other hand reaching new audiences. Overall, this album presents a novel and quite different aspect of Ibrahim’s music, and the WDR Big Band is splendid, as always, which adds up to create an interesting experience, which Big Band Jazz lover should enjoy immensely.

Updated: 27/10/2026Posted: 27/10/2026

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