Record Reviews

CHICK COREA ~ THE MUSICIAN STRETCH 888072026490 (Barcode: 888072026490) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2011 Released: 2016 As 2021 nears its end it’s time to commemorate the passing of one of the greatest heroes of American Jazz, keyboardist / composer / bandleader Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, who sadly passed in February this year. This is a 3CD album by Corea, recorded live at the NY Blue Note club in 2011, during the celebrations of his 70th Birthday. It features ten different lineups with thirty musicians, which span Corea’s extraordinary career and which produced some of the greatest American Jazz ever. The lineups include Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist, Five Peace BandFind albums by this artist, Electric BandFind albums by this artist, duos with Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist, Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist, Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist, Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist and others. Together the collected list of musicians sounds like the Who’s Who of the 20th Century American Jazz (and a few Europeans for good measure). For the avid Corea fans, who followed his career for five decades (up to that point) the album does not innovate of course, being primarily an overview and it excludes his early days, when he played mostly Avant-Garde Jazz, but a comprehensive summary would have taken a few more hours (or CDs) of course. But as it is, it offers four hours of incredible, diverse and superb music, performed by brilliant musicians, so one can’t go wrong here. Overall, this is certainly a proper document of one of the many facets of Corea’s music, which embraced a plethora of styles, genres and approaches, from Avant-Garde to Fusion, always brilliant and completely unique. His Artistry will be sadly missed and his sweet personality, to those who met him, will be always a cherished memory.

Updated: 30/12/2021Posted: 30/12/2021

CD 3 Recommend To A Friend

ELMA ~ AD REM HEVHETIA 0113 (Barcode: 8588005257657) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2016 This is the second album by Polish Jazz vocalist ElmaFind albums by this artist, but in fact it could be viewed as the second part of Elma´s debut album, as it presents material recorded at the same recording session as the material released on the debut. A conscious decision was made at the time to collect the "song oriented" material on the debut and the improvised material on this second album The album was recorded by a quartet, which features Elma with Finnish trumpeter Verneri PohjolaFind albums by this artist and Polish pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist and bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and was recorded at the Studio Tokarnia and engineered by Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist. The music on this album comprises of twelve improvised pieces; a prologue and then an eleven-part suite. Except for the first part of the suite which is credited to Elma and Pohjola, the rest of the music is credited to all four participants. Although the Improvised Music is enjoying a spectacular Renaissance in the last few years, it is almost always completely instrumental and does not involve the human voice. The glorious days of the vocal Improvised Music are sadly completely gone and pioneering vocalists like Jeanne LeeFind albums by this artist, Lauren NewtonFind albums by this artist, Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, Jay ClaytonFind albums by this artist, Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist and others are either forgotten or changed their field of interest. Therefore Elma can be considered as the torch bearer of this fantastic tradition into the 21st Century. Elma treats her voice as an instrument, which has always been the basic rule of great vocalists. Since the human voice is limited only by the vocalist´s imagination, it is the most versatile and virtually unlimited instrument, a fact which becomes plainly evident to anybody listening to this music. With the incredibly compassionate accompaniment Elma receives from her three partners, the resulting music is one of the most unique musical creations recorded in the last few years. The importance of this music is twofold; firstly it is breathtakingly beautiful, emotionally intense and aesthetically stunning and secondly it is intellectually courageous and fascinating. Elma is not regressing to the 1970s to create more of the same vocal Improvised Music created then, but takes the tradition right up to date, moving forward and updating the concept, adapting it to contemporary Jazz language, sound and vision. Her vocalese and other tricks of the trade, most of which she invented herself or expanded from earlier examples, is a completely new language in itself, which enables her to go where nobody went before; an extremely rare quality these days. The contributions of the three instrumentalists present here is simply outstanding. They all manage to contribute to the music without overshadowing the focus of the vocals and their empathy and ability to communicate with Elma almost telepathically is simply phenomenal. This is indisputably one of the most important albums released on the Polish Jazz scene in the last decade and as far as vocal Jazz is concerned, also on a world scale. There is no other vocal Improvised Music of this intensity and innovative authority anywhere else at the moment, which makes this album simply a one of its kind. To say the truth, this album should be studied by every vocalist in the world, Jazz and otherwise, just to make them aware of what the human voice (and mind) is capable of. This might of course make some of them stop singing, which would be of great benefit of course. Absolutely essential item in every serious record collection!

Updated: 29/02/2016Posted: 29/02/2016

CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend

GRZEGORZ KARNAS ~ AUDIO BEADS BMC 199 (Barcode: 5998309301995) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012 This is the fifth album by Polish Jazz vocalist Grzegorz KarnasFind albums by this artist and his first live recording. Recorded in Hungary and released on the excellent Hungarian BMCFind albums on this label label, the album captures Karnas accompanied by cellist Adam OlesFind albums by this artist, drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and guest artist Hungarian cimbalom player Miklos LukacsFind albums by this artist. Together they perform just five extended pieces, one of which is a Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist song and the rest are originals co-credited to Karnas and Oles. The sound quality of this live recording is absolutely superb, which every single note being perfectly audible. Karnas presents a unique approach to Jazz vocals, which amalgamates lyrics, vocalese, scat, wordless chanting and spontaneous improvisation. He is always full of surprises and completely unconventional. His vocal modus operandi is based on techniques developed earlier by American Jazz vocalist Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist and sounds similar to McFerrin´s early work, but of course is inventive enough to avoid being considered simply a replica of the original. Karnas is experienced and talented enough to keep his audiences mesmerized and his extended improvisations manage to sustain tension for prolonged periods of time, which of course is extremely difficult. As this live recording proves, he is a fascinating live performer and listening to him live is perhaps the best way to benefit from his many abilities. The accompanying musicians are all splendid players and provide excellent support for the vocalist all the way through. The cellist uses his instrument mostly as if it was an upright bass, almost never playing arco. He displays fantastic musicality and virtuosic control of the cello, being the primary partner of the vocalist and complementing him superbly. The drummer plays delicately, often using his hands and brushes, with of course is suitable for this intimate music-making experience. The cimbalom player sounds remarkably like a pianist, which although works well in this situation, is a pity, as it loses the wonderful "original" sound of the instrument, which surely might have added another interesting dimension to this already multifaceted music. Considering the fact that male vocalists are a rarity on the Polish Jazz scene (and in general), Karnas definitely deserves to be praised for filling this difficult gap. Constantly developing and expanding his vocabulary and technique he is definitely a talent to be watched and enjoyed. This album is certainly a splendid addition to his recorded legacy and a source of immense listening pleasure. Wholeheartedly recommended!

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

GRZEGORZ KARNAS ~ SNY DEBIES 002 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2002 - 2004 Released: 2004 This is the second album by Polish Jazz vocalist / composer / arranger Grzegorz KarnasFind albums by this artist, one of the most unique and talented representatives of the young generation of the local Jazz scene. Born in the southern Polish province of Upper Silesia, Karnas graduated form the Jazz Institute at the Katowice Academy of Music, where a large percentage of the young Polish Jazz musicians get their initial graduate education. His debut album "ReinkarnasjaFind albums with this title", released in 2000, created quite a stir on the local scene and immediately established him as one of the most significant newcomers. He is accompanied on this album by a superb team of excellent players: pianist Michal TokajFind albums by this artist (who plays the Fender electric piano here rather than his usual acoustic piano), guitarist Damian KuraszFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert KubiszynFind albums by this artist and drummer Sebastian FrankiewiczFind albums by this artist. In addition several guest artists also participate: legendary veteran saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Jerzy MalekFind albums by this artist, cellist Adam OlesFind albums by this artist (a future close collaborator, who also hails from Silesia), vocalist Patrycja GolaFind albums by this artist and congas player Bogusz WekkaFind albums by this artist. The album consists of twelve pieces, ten of which were written (music & lyrics) by Karnas, one was co-written by Karnas and Oles and one is a standard. Karnas wrote all the arrangements, which are quite unusual and beautifully atmospheric. Of course Karnas´ vocal performances are the focal point of the album, but his ability to involve all these wonderful players to become an integral part of the overall result is absolutely astounding. Szukalski plays wonderfully here, but for me Tokaj and his incredible electric piano phrasing are the cherry on the cake. Karnas is a unique vocalist, a power of Nature. Although many of the tricks of the trade he so skillfully utilizes can be traced back to other great vocalists, like the great Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist and the Polish diva Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, but he is truly original. First and foremost he completely disregards any conventions, allowing himself a total freedom as far as his vocal expressions are concerned. Regardless if he sings lyrics, vocalese, scat or just utters sounds from his throat, there are no rules involved. His pronunciation of the lyrics is completely off the wall and probably would give his primary school Polish language teacher a heart attack, but the effect is overwhelming. He also twists the melody any way he wants and his disregard of "proper" timing is simply scandalous; and yet all these elements put together create an amalgam, which is just so beautiful and intelligent, that any experienced music connoisseur simply melts away. Vocal Jazz or more exactly interesting and challenging vocal Jazz is unfortunately a rarity on contemporary Jazz scene and therefore any Artists of the level presented by Karnas is a most welcome addition. People who truly love music will love this music immediately and unconditionally. Not to be missed!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

GRZEGORZ KARNAS ~ VANGA BMC 209 (Barcode: 5998309302091) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014 This is the sixth album by Polish Jazz vocalist Grzegorz KarnasFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio including bassist Michal JarosFind albums by this artist and drummer Sebastian FrankiewiczFind albums by this artist and Hungarian cimbalom player Miklos LukacsFind albums by this artist, who appears as a guest. The album was recorded live at the Opus Jazz Club in Budapest and presents nine tracks, most of which are original compositions by Karnas. Karnas is a unique phenomenon on the vocal Jazz scene, one of the most original Masters of the trade, who incorporates lyrics and vocalese in his personal style, which is unequalled by anybody else except perhaps Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist. He is a brilliant improviser and uses his voice like an instrument and hearing him performing is a life changing experience. His long time collaboration with the rhythm section present here explains why the trio sounds like one organic music making body, with the trio members communicating telepathically, which enables the neck-breaking difficult rhythmic patterns and topsy-turvy melody lines to sound completely natural and coherent. This live recording proves that he is able to re-create his amazing Artistry live without any studio trickery. For some strange reason this album failed to land on my desk until now, so I am happy to bridge the gap now, especially in view of the fact that it’s been five years since Karnas released his last album; definitely way too long! Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, completely different from almost anything one might come across in Jazz in general and vocal Jazz in particular. Lovers of human voice and vocal Jazz will absolutely love this to bits. I really long to hear Karnas live on stage again, but a new album will do in the meantime. This gem is still available, so don’t even think twice.

Updated: 31/03/2022Posted: 31/03/2022

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

BOBBY MCFERRIN ~ 5 ORIGINAL ALBUMS BLUE NOTE 600753769812 (Barcode: 600753769812) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 - 2002 Released: 2018 This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary American Jazz vocalist / composer Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist, originally released on the Blue NoteFind albums on this label label between 1986 and 2002. They are: “Spontaneous InventionsFind albums with this title” (1986), “Simple PleasuresFind albums with this title” (1988), “Medicine MusicFind albums with this title” (1990), “Bang!ZoomFind albums with this title” (1995) and “Beyond WordsFind albums with this title” (2002). The first three albums are almost entirely solo vocals recordings, on which McFerrin showcases his extraordinary technique and unlimited artistic imagination. There is a minimal instrumental accompaniment on selected tracks, but most of the music is created by McFerrin’s vocal cords and his “body percussion”. The resulting music is entirely groundbreaking and absolutely magical. The two later albums are more “conventional” (if such word is applicable at all when talking about McFerrin), presenting the vocalist supported by some of the best Jazz musicians out there, including keyboardist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist, drummer Omar HakimFind albums by this artist, bassist Jimmy HaslipFind albums by this artist and many others. Except for a few interpretations of music by other authors, all the music is composed and arranged by McFerrin, presenting his amazing skills as songwriter / composer / arranger. McFerrin is undoubtedly the greatest male Jazz vocalist of all time and one of the most creative, versatile and open-minded musical personalities ever on the American scene. His extensive and superbly diverse recorded legacy presents the full picture of his achievements so far, and one can never expect what else he will come up with next. He is also one of the nicest human beings I have ever had the opportunity to meet in person, which is of course not less important than his musical genius. Definitely a “Don’t worry, be happy” person, but also an exceptionally gifted human being. This music is of course beyond recommendation… Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 21/10/2021Posted: 21/10/2021

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Recommend To A Friend

BOBBY MCFERRIN ~ ORIGINAL ALBUM CLASSICS SONY 190758893723 (Barcode: 190758893723) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1991 - 2013 Released: 2018 This Box Set collects reissues of five albums by the legendary American Jazz vocalist Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist, originally released on the SonyFind albums on this label label between 1992 and 2013. They are: “HushFind albums with this title” (1992), “Paper MusicFind albums with this title” (1995), “The Mozart SessionsFind albums with this title” (1996), “CirclesongsFind albums with this title” (1997) and “SpirityouallFind albums with this title” (2013). “Hush” is a duo recording with cellist Yo-Yo MaFind albums by this artist and presents thirteen pieces, four of which are originals by McFerrin and the rest are arrangements of well-known Classical compositions. “Paper Music” is a recording of McFerrin conducting the Saint Paul Chamber OrchestraFind albums by this artist and singing specially arranged vocal parts to nine Classical compositions. “The Mozart Sessions” is also a recording of McFerrin conducting the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and singing specially arranged vocal parts, with pianist Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist performing the piano parts. Together they perform two Concerti by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartFind albums by this artist and a vocals / piano improvisation based on a Mozart sonata. “Circlesongs” is a cappella recording of eight original pieces performed by McFerrin with twelve invited vocalists. “Spirityouall” is a mixture of Americana, spirituals and original songs performed by McFerrin, a Jazz group and background vocals. McFerrin is undoubtedly the greatest male Jazz vocalist of all time and one of the most creative, versatile and open-minded musical personalities ever on the American scene. Although three of these five albums showcase him in the Jazz-Classical Fusion idiom, his extensive and superbly diverse recorded legacy presents the full picture of his achievements so far, and one can never expect what else he will come up with next. He is also one of the nicest human beings I have ever had the opportunity to meet in person, which is of course not less important than his musical genius. Definitely a “Don’t worry, be happy” person, but also an exceptionally gifted human being. This music is of course beyond recommendation… Side Note The "Original Album SeriesFind albums with this title" by Warner Bros.Find albums on this label, the "Original Album ClassicsFind albums with this title" by SonyFind albums on this label, the "5 Original AlbumsFind albums with this title" by UniversalFind albums on this label, the Box Sets by RhinoFind albums on this label and other similar releases are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard for the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires as to treat our Cultural Legacy with respect and loyalty. The Box Sets produced under these monikers have no discographical information whatsoever about the lineups, musician names, composers, lyricists, dates and places of recording, original release data and even basic copyright data (the last is strictly illegal BTW). Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, they are often edited and information (which would be in most cases too small to be readable) is removed. Most importantly these Box Sets don't include any booklet offering a historical background and perspective about the Artists and the Music, which are extremely important and vital to the preservation of our Culture and passing the knowledge to the next generations. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap. Considering the fact how many times this music has been sold over and over again by the labels, this is a crying shame!

Updated: 08/09/2021Posted: 08/09/2021

CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Oversampling Recommend To A Friend

BOBBY MCFERRIN ~ SPIRITYOUALL SONY 888837183826 (Barcode: 888837183826) ~ USA ~ Gospel Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013 This album by US vocalist / composer extraordinaire Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist is a profound back to the roots examination of his musical path so far and its origins. It presents thirteen songs, seven of which are traditional spirituals, five are his original compositions and one is a Bob DylanFind albums by this artist song. All these songs have a common musical ground, going back to the roots of American music and even deeper back to the African sources of this music. McFerrin is accompanied by a splendid group of instrumentalists, which includes keyboardist Gil GoldsteinFind albums by this artist, who also plays the accordion extensively on this album and who is responsible for the superb arrangements, guitarist Larry CampbellFind albums by this artist, bassists Esperanza SpaldingFind albums by this artist and Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and drummers Charley DraytonFind albums by this artist and Ali JacksonFind albums by this artist. Spalding also adds her vocals on several tracks and four background vocalists participate on a couple tracks. McFerrin also uses this album to pay a tribute to his father, Robert McFerrin, Sr.Find albums by this artist who was the first African-American to sing a title role at the Metropolitan Opera. Several of the spirituals covered by Bobby on this album were recorded by his father on his 1957 solo album "Deep RiverFind albums with this title", and receive here a renewed treatment. The entire album is full of spirituality, faith and love, expressed in a humble, honest and most sincere way, without any attempt to preach or convert. It reflects accurately and beautifully McFerrin´s personality, who is one of the kindest and friendliest persons I have ever had the pleasure to meet and spend time with. Musically this album is less adventurous than McFerrin´s earlier work, but of course in this case it is all quite intentional. And yet he gets to display an enormous range of his vocal abilities, singing words, scat, vocalese and uttering sounds, all the above with his usual elegance and eloquence. The instrumental accompaniment is also first-rate, with a unique, mostly acoustic and down to earth sound, which suits this music perfectly, being a perfect example of "less is more". Overall this is a perfect example of an album, which is most entertaining and yet at the same time is superbly executed, intelligent and deeply emotional – a rare event indeed. Every music lover on earth should be able to enjoy this music immensely simply opening the heart and ears at the same time. Thank you Bobby, again!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MYRCZEK & TOMASZEWSKI ~ LOVE REVISITED FOR TUNE 0038 (Barcode: 5902768701432) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is the debut album by the Polish Jazz duo: vocalist Wojciech MyrczekFind albums by this artist and pianist Pawel TomaszewskiFind albums by this artist. Myrczek recorded his debut album three years earlier while he was still a student at the Katowice Academy of Music, where he is now a member of the faculty. Tomaszewski, a graduate of the same Academy, is a seasoned and much respected pianist with an impressive recorded legacy, mostly as a sideman. The album presents ten classic vocal standards performed by the duo, recorded in a Swiss studio with astounding sonic quality. In many respects this is the most surprising album released on the Polish Jazz scene in 2014. I mean the sheer chutzpah of these two guys fooling around with the holy grail of Jazz vocals? Who do they think they are? The trifling comparison often quoted in the duo´s PR material and other reviews referencing this album to the archetypal Tony BennettFind albums by this artist & Bill EvansFind albums by this artist albums from 1975 & 1977 is completely counterproductive in this case. This music sounds nothing like the referenced albums, which of course is all for the good, since letting the bygones be bygones is the only way to get anywhere. Initially the album has everything working against it. The Polish Jazz male vocalists are few and far between, and with rare exceptions are all quite insignificant. The standards all feature lyrics in English and Polish vocalist singing in English usually simply stink (again with very few exceptions). But most importantly: the concept of this duo, which places a vocalist, who uses conventional (well mostly) techniques against a pianist who plays completely unconventionally, often pretty wildly and freely, is absolutely atypical for a vocals / piano setting. And yet, against all odds, this album is simply a gem from start to finish. Myrczek arises as a gifted vocal magician, able to use a wide vocabulary of possibilities, from crooning sweetness to improvised scat, vocalese and imitating bass lines vocally. It is obvious that he is having a great time and there is no tension (other that creative tension of course) limiting his performances. Although there is not much innovation as far as Jazz singing is concerned, with obvious references ranging from Kurt EllingFind albums by this artist to Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist, the overall effect of his singing is simply irresistible. There is also an obvious pinch of humor omnipresent herein, most evident when Myrczek recites a fragment of a book in the Polish language in the middle of one of the songs. Even his English accent and pronunciation are only very slightly off, which can be considered as charming, rather than disturbing. Tomaszewski, in complete contrast to Myrczek, treats the music completely on his own terms, playing anything but what would normally be expected of him and taking liberties with the melodies, the chords and even the time, which although must have been very difficult for Myrczek to sing along with, is wonderfully effective, creating a much more expressive result than the usual vocals / piano setting. Comparing his work on his earlier recordings, including those featuring vocalists, his playing here is the more adventurous and daring than ever. His work on this album definitely marks him as one of the Polish Jazz pianists who deserve a much wider exposure than what he enjoys currently. So here we are again; the Polish Jazz scene is able to come up with another pleasant surprise, which is pretty astonishing, considering the overly excellent level of music released in Poland. The music this album offers is nothing but pure joy, elegance, class and panache, all of the highest caliber. It is definitely one of the nicest releases of 2014, which should stay with the listeners for many years to come. Another surprising element is the fact that this album was released by the For TuneFind albums on this label label, which is usually associated with Avant-Garde and other alternative music forms. It is heartwarming to see that the label recognized the fact that seemingly conventional music can also be challenging and adventurous. The album is the label´s debut on the new "pink" series (the exact meaning of the various colors of their releases is kept in deep secret), and regardless of the "pinkness", will be very had to beat.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

LAUREN NEWTON ~ FILIGREE HATOLOGY 519 (Barcode: 752156051923) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1982 Released: 1998 American born but resident in Europe vocalist / composer Lauren NewtonFind albums by this artist is undoubtedly one of the most important innovators of the modern vocal idiom in Jazz and Improvised Music. After moving to Europe from her native Oregon, she became a founding member of the legendary Vienna Art OrchestraFind albums by this artist and later joined forces with other vocal innovators: Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist (from Poland), Jeanne LeeFind albums by this artist (from the US but also active in Europe), Jay ClaytonFind albums by this artist and Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist (both from the US) forming the legendary vocal ensemble Vocal SummitFind albums by this artist in 1982. This album is a long overdue reissue of her debut recording, initially released under the title "TimbreFind albums with this title". Accompanied by vibraphonist David FriedmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Thomas StabenowFind albums by this artist and drummer Manfred KnielFind albums by this artist, Newton delivers a breathtaking set of her own compositions, using her completely unique vocal and improvisational techniques. The reissue also adds a most valuable and excellent bonus track. The overall effect of this music is absolutely overwhelming and for me raises precious memories of hearing her perform both with the Vienna Art Orchestra and Vocal Summit, as well as our conversations together. Don´t miss the opportunity of this gem being available again, probably for a short while. Wholeheartedly recommended to all open-minded listeners!

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

JANUSZ SZROM ~ JANUSZ SZROM NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020 This is a brilliant album by veteran Polish Jazz vocalist / composer Janusz SzromFind albums by this artist, performed using only multi-tracked vocals and no instrumental backing whatsoever. The album presents twenty-one relatively concise tracks, mostly originals, composed by Szrom (eight tracks) and Pawel BetleyFind albums by this artist (also eight tracks) and a few others. Only two tracks are songs including lyrics, all the rest are pure vocalese. Although the concept of unaccompanied solo vocal albums is not new as such – see the phenomenal and revolutionary "The VoiceFind albums with this title" by Bobby McFerrinFind albums by this artist from 1984 – but those are very rare indeed. It takes not only skill and talent, but first of all also courage and imagination to undertake such a demanding task and it´s great to see Szrom fearlessly and proudly facing the immensely difficult challenge and successfully create a beautiful piece of music. The music offers a diverse collection of musical themes, which mix Jazz with World Music, Pop and other genres. The performances utilize a plethora of vocal techniques, including a cappella, imitation of instruments, rhythmic phrasing, scat, complex harmonies and so on. Szrom´s impressive vocal range manages to produce an imitation of vocal groups, like the legendary Polish NOVIFind albums by this artist vocal ensemble, or other ensembles like Les Double SixFind albums by this artist or Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist, all created in this case by the voice of a single person. It doesn´t really make sense to say much more about this music, as nothing is able to replace the actual experience of listening to it of course. Overall this is a stunning, unique, and completely overwhelming album, which should astonish the connoisseurs of vocal Jazz, or in fact all lovers of the human voice, knocking them out of their socks. I can´t imagine any true music lover not falling in love with this gem immediately and I hope it gets to be heard by as many music lovers around the world as possible. Hats off my Friend! Chapeau bas, etc.!

Updated: 30/03/2020Posted: 30/03/2020

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend