Record Reviews

OTTO HEJNIC ORGANISM ~ BERINGIA HEVHETIA 0250 (Barcode: 8588005259477) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is an album by Czech drummer / composer Otto HejnicFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio, called OrganismFind albums by this artist, which includes American organist Brian CharetteFind albums by this artist and British (resident in Czech Republic) saxophonist Osian RobertsFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, all by the leader. The music is all within straightforward mainstream Jazz idiom, but the unusual sound created by the uncommon lineup of Hammond organ / saxophone / drums is what separates this music from most other mainstream albums, in addition of course to the melody lines, which are full of European lyricism. I am always impartial when a recording involves the Hammond, as it is my favorite instrument, but in this case the organ parts seem to be the most mundane element of the music. Somehow Charette fails to create the excitement and zets this miraculous instrument is able to produce, perhaps intentionally on this album, but I can imagine this music sounding way more stimulating with a kick-ass organ player. Roberts also sticks mainly to state the melody themes, but his solo work is limited. Hejnic keeps the music flowing with his strong and energetic drumming, doing a great work as always, but sadly that is not enough to make this album extraordinary in any way. Overall, this is a nice mainstream album, with unusual sound and some excellent compositions, but somehow lacks the excitement I was hoping for. Hammond organ enthusiasts might find this interesting, but don’t expect any miracles.

Updated: 24/10/2022Posted: 24/10/2022

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