Record Reviews

EMMA NAGY ~ LOW FREQUENCY OSCILLATOR NOT ON LABEL ~ HUNGARY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020 This is the second album by Hungarian vocalist Emma NagyFind albums by this artist and her quintet, which also includes guitarist Peter CsehFind albums by this artist, pianist Aron TalasFind albums by this artist (a new member), bassist Abel DenesFind albums by this artist and drummer Adam KlauszFind albums by this artist and features guest saxophonist Daniel MesterFind albums by this artist, who appears on selected tracks. The album presents twelve original compositions, six composed by Nagy, three by Denes and one each by Cseh, Talas and Klausz. Most of the lyrics (in English) are by Emma’s brother. The music continues the path set by the sensational debut, but about half of the tunes are significantly shorter and more concise this time, with fewer instrumental passages, which somewhat changes the overall character of the music. The leader sings mostly lyrics this time, using less vocalese and other vocal effects, which are still here of course but are less dominant, which again effects the overall impression. Of course it is perhaps unfair to compare this album to its predecessor, but one must admit that the total effect of surprise and novelty achieved by the debut influences the listener’s (yours truly) attitude towards this album. That said, this is still an amazing piece of music, which perhaps is less immediately stunning, but preserves all the great qualities of the debut, first and foremost the complete originality in making music, but all the other qualities of sublime instrumental performances, great vocals and absolutely magical atmosphere of Avant-Gardist nonchalance, which sets aside this quintet from almost everything that is happening on the European Jazz scene these days, are also here. It is recommended to read my review of the debut album “Set To FaceFind albums with this title” to get the full picture, as it makes no sense to repeat all my compliments, which are still all valid. If anybody will go through the same process of listening to these albums in the chronological order, will probably experience the same experiences like myself, but of course all is well that ends well, or even better ;) Overall, this is another amazing album by amazing young musicians, who deserve nothing but prize and admiration for their efforts. Sadly, such originality is way too rare these days but happily it still happens, and when it does it deserves all the support that one can offer.

Updated: 19/11/2021Posted: 19/11/2021

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