Record Reviews

TOMASZ LICAK / RADEK WOSKO ~ ENTRAILS UNITED RECART 0012 (Barcode: 5908285287114) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is the debut album by a quartet co-led by two young Polish Jazz musicians: saxophonist Tomasz LicakFind albums by this artist and drummer Radek WoskoFind albums by this artist. As students of the Carl Nielsen Academy of Music in Odense, where many other Polish musicians study lately, they completed their quartet by adding two Danish players: pianist Carl WintherFind albums by this artist and bassist Martin BuhlFind albums by this artist Staunstrup (who appears on albums as Martin Buhl only). The album comprises of nine original compositions, four by Wosko, three by Winther and two by Licak. In many respects this album is quite typical of the new generation Polish (and Polish / Danish) Jazz bands, which display mostly an incredible level of musicianship and artistry. These bands sound professional and flawless from day one, which is pretty amazing. The individual statements are all excellent, as is the interplay between the band members. In short this is really an excellent Jazz album, with solid original compositions and inspired performances, which would not shame much older and more experienced professionals. The music is spiced with the European Jazz elements, like melancholy, lyricism and elegance, which are often emphasized by the original compositions. Winther is in charge of the more melodic / delicate elements while Licak plays slightly more expressive, yet still mostly very melodically. The rhythm section is perfect at what it does, with Buhl being the pillar of strength and order, balanced by Wosko who plays with a significant degree of freedom. Together they sound like one organic body making music. If I could suggest anything it would be for Winther, Buhl and Wosko to record an album as a piano trio, which I think could be simply sensational. Over time there appears to be a tendency among the Polish / Danish bands to be significantly more conventional / mainstream oriented than similar bands in the same age bracket, which arise in Poland. Most probably this has something to do with the teaching at Odense, or the atmosphere at the Danish Academy, which influences its alumni, which strangely enough emphasizes individuality and courage in its formal agenda. As a result this album, as excellent as it is, lacks a certain degree risk taking, adventure and unexpectedness. Everything here is simply just right, but alas often just "too right". However, considering the talents of these musicians one can hope that time will work in their favor. This is definitely an excellent debut, which should make the participating musicians very happy and the potential listeners even happier. Listeners who love modern mainstream based on melodic themes and played with flair and elegance should enjoy this music immensely. Well done gentlemen!

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FREDERIK VILLMOW ~ LIVE IN COPENHAGEN AMP 052 (Barcode: 013415901510) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 This is the debut album by the young German (resident in Norway) Jazz drummer Frederik VillmowFind albums by this artist recorded with his quartet which also includes German saxophonist Marc DoffeyFind albums by this artist, Danish pianist Carl WintherFind albums by this artist and Norwegian bassist Julian HauglandFind albums by this artist. The quartet is expanded into a quintet with the addition of the veteran Swedish saxophonist Tomas FranckFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded live at the legendary Jazzhus Montmartre club in Copenhagen and presents seven tracks, five of which are original compositions (three by Villmow and two by Franck) and two are standards. The music is typical European modern mainstream, mostly post Bebop oriented, based on solid melodic themes, which serve as basis for extended improvisations by the quintet members. The album does not venture into any experimental ground and stays on solid conventional Jazz path. The focus of the album is on the fiery, scorching soloing by the saxophonists and the pianist, which offers an intense barrage of notes and superb highly energetic virtuosic display of Jazz energy, except for one intimate duo track (sax and bass). The rhythm section supports the soloists formidably and with an obvious display of youthful energy, which suits the music perfectly. The ensemble playing, especially considering the fact that this is a live recording, is excellent and all the musicians seem to be in high spirits obviously enjoying the opportunity to play together. Overall this is a classic, highly energetic mainstream Jazz album, full of excellent music and heartfelt performances, which should satisfy any true Jazz lover around the globe. Warmly recommended!

Updated: 23/09/2019Posted: 23/09/2019

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