Record Reviews
20 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | JACK DEJOHNETTE ~ MADE IN CHICAGO
ECM 2392 (Barcode: 602537809356) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015
Although born, raised and musically educated in Chicago, pianist / Master drummer / composer / bandleader Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist left the Windy City and moved on to the Big Apple in 1966, leaving behind his schoolmates and bandmates from the Chicago loft scene. He soon got involved with such pivotal Jazz figures like Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, Stan GetzFind albums by this artist, Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, and later on led many of his own ensembles, living one of the most fulfilling and artistically creative lives in American Jazz history.
In the meantime his Chicago cohorts: pianist Muhal Richard AbramsFind albums by this artist and saxophonists Roscoe MitchellFind albums by this artist and Henry ThreadgillFind albums by this artist became the core of the AACM, one of the most important American Jazz platforms, which gave birth to countless revolutionary recordings and kept the American Jazz developing and expanding the boundaries set by the stale mainstream traditionalism.
The celebrations of DeJohnette´s seventieth birthday created the opportunity to bring DeJohnette together again with Abrams, Mitchell and Threadgill. The specially formed quintet was formed by adding the Chicago born and based bassist Larry GrayFind albums by this artist and the quintet recorded the music presented here live. They perform six original compositions, two of which are by Mitchell, one each by Abrams, DeJohnette and Threadgill and one is credited to all five quintet members.
People familiar with the recordings by the Chicago scene musicians will find this music pretty familiar stylistically and the AACM aesthetic prevails throughout, with long, slowly developing themes and extended improvisations setting the tone. The melodic threads, stated usually after a moody preamble, are then extensively improvised upon, only to be repeated by the end of each track. There is a lot of space and freedom in this music, which allows all the musicians to state their own ides as well as exchange ideas with the other members of the quintet.
This is definitely not the kind of music that DeJohnette usually plays outside of this specific project and his ability not only to blend in but also contribute significantly to the overall result is truly remarkable. His incredible sensitivity, elegance and technical brilliance are here right in the open, for the listener to enjoy.
As much as this album celebrates DeJohnette´s lifetime achievements, even more so it celebrates the Chicago Jazz scene, which is undoubtedly the most creative and adventurous center of ambitious music in the USA, burgeoning with inventiveness and passion, not only amongst the older generation but also involving many your Jazz and Improvising Music artists. Should this album prompt more listeners to plunge deeper into Jazz Made in Chicago, DeJohnette added another milestone to his magnificent career.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ ALL MY RELATIONS
ECM 1557 (Barcode: 731452734426) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ CANTO
ECM 1635 (Barcode: 731453734524) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform seven original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ FISH OUT OF WATER
ECM 1398 (Barcode: 042284108829) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 1990
This is the first album on the iconic German ECMFind albums on this label label by American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with the dreamy Scandinavian rhythm section comprising of pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Jon ChristensenFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist. This, the CD version of the album, includes one bonus track not included on the LP version, totaling in seven original compositions, all by Lloyd.
The music offers a set of melodic, bluesy and wistful compositions, which spiritually are much way closer to the European / Nordic Jazz usually performed by the Scandinavian musicians taking part in this recording than what one might expect form an American Jazz musician, so deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition. But Lloyd was never a typical American Jazz musician and his exposure to European Jazz music and musicians during his career as well as his interest in World Music already proved that he can be quite unexpected and not following any particular trends.
The album´s mellow and melancholic tunes flow gently in the air, caressing the listener´s ear, splendidly performed by the quartet members. Lloyd´s soloing is beautifully fluid and tender. Bobo´s piano parts are in full harmony with the leader´s melodic approach and his soloing takes the music towards more spacey planes. The bass and drums, which have a limited straightforward rhythmic role in this setting, ornament the music with pulsation and accents, always perfectly suited with the melodic flow.
The album was, not surprisingly, received quite coldly by American critics and audiences, which at the time (late 1980s / early 1990s) approached the "ECM sound" with extreme caution and called it by the derogatory term "Euro Jazz", which proves that America was then still completely stuck in the conservative / retarded Jazz approach. Although in the three decades that passed since that time ECM managed to crack the American Jazz establishment, and even became somewhat fashionable, sadly partly due to the label´s conformism, most Americans still don´t get the quintessence of European Jazz.
Although this album offers very little innovation or groundbreaking musical exploration, in retrospect it remains a solid mainstream statement, full of great melodies and virtuosic performances, which should please most contemporary Jazz connoisseurs. It lost nothing of its charm over time and probably will never do so, and since it is rather sadly forgotten today, my recommendation is to revisit it – satisfaction guaranteed! Although it is very difficult to get hold of lately, it was reissued by ECM as part of the "Old And New Masters Series", as one of the first five albums Lloyd recorded for ECM, combined in the Charles Lloyd "QuartetsFind albums with this title" Box Set.
| | Updated: 06/08/2019Posted: 06/08/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ MIRROR
ECM 2176 (Barcode: 602527404998) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
The series of albums recorded for the ECMFind albums on this label label since 1990 by US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, of which this is the 14th, is a wonderful portrait of an Artist, showing his consistent excellence and dedication on one hand and his constant development and search of new forms of artistic / aesthetic expression on the other. His music, deeply rooted on the American Jazz tradition, was always open to new influences over the years, like World Music or Rock, as well as the readiness to work with new generations of musicians, always selecting the very best, sensitive and sympathetic collaborators. This album was recorded by the same quartet, which recorded the previous album, but this is a studio recording and the previous was a live recording. It comprises of pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist. The music includes a mixture of Lloyd originals, his arrangement of traditional songs and a few standards, including two superbly executed Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist compositions. In complete disregard of his age, Lloyd sounds strong and confident, with his beautiful tone intact. The young players with his keep a respectful distance from the Master when supporting him and fully expose their abilities when given solo spots. One simply can´t go wrong with a Charles Lloyd album, and this one is no exception. So let´s savor the moment for as long as his creative stream continues. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ NOTES FROM BIG SUR
ECM 1465 (Barcode: 731451199929) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Ralph PetersonFind albums by this artist. Together they perform eight original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ RABO DE NUBE
ECM 2053 (Barcode: 602517548114) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
This is a live recording by American saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and his quartet which includes pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist. They perform together seven compositions, six of which are Lloyd´s originals and the title track was composed by the great Cuban musician / composer Silvio RodriguezFind albums by this artist.
Of all the great Jazz heroes of my youth, Lloyd seems to be the very last Mohican still alive and kicking, as if he was living in a time capsule; time has been very kind to him and his vitality and amazing talent flourish completely untouched and unblemished. A while ago I listened to all the mid to late 1960s recordings by the Charles Lloyd legendary quartet with pianist Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist, bassists Ron McClureFind albums by this artist / Cecil McBeeFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and that music sounds even better today than it sounded then, and in parallel Lloyd is able to play the way he does now, four decades later. This is simply amazing!
Of course the fact that Lloyd manages to surround himself with some of the absolutely best young and upcoming musicians (as he always did) is part of the secret formula. Moran is a major contender to the exclusive top Jazz pianists "club" and the rhythm section is also inspired and technically very proficient. Most importantly however is the fact that they show an immense respect for the Master, supporting his at all times sympathetically and unpretentiously, waiting for their solo spots patiently.
Staying contemporary for five decades is definitely a super rare ability, so thank God for Charles Lloyd and his music.
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ THE CALL
ECM 1522 (Barcode: 602517799240) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2008
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of Swedish pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and veteran US drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Together they perform nine original compositions by Lloyd, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ THE SKY WILL STILL BE THERE TOMORROW
BLUE NOTE 602458167948 (Barcode: 602458167948) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024
This is a 2CD album by the iconic American saxophonist / flautist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic quartet setting with pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Larry GrenadierFind albums by this artist and drummer Brian BladeFind albums by this artist. The album presents fifteen tracks, all of which are original compositions by Lloyd or his arrangements of traditional tunes.
The music is absolutely Divine, from start to finish, full of gentle melodies, heartbreaking melancholy and uplifting love. Lloyd’s heartfelt liner notes on the album’s cover say it all, summarizing his life in music. The last of the Great American Jazz Mohicans is still here with us, sharing with us a sublime bouquet of new and old compositions, for which we are grateful. The three companions playing alongside Lloyd are perfect for this album, and although this is the first time Blade is playing with Lloyd, the affinity and respect are all in place.
Lloyd seems to be completely ageless on this album. Ignoring the tide of time, he is as creative, technically perfect and emotionally encompassing, as musicians half his age, and more. We can only hope to hear more new music from him, as he never fails to deliver in full.
Overall, this is an absolute marvel of an album, with more that ninety minutes of music that never stops to caress and excite, truly ageless and universal. It is of course an essential piece of music, which deserves an honorable place in every record collection!
| | Updated: 23/05/2024Posted: 23/05/2024 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: CHAPEL
BLUE NOTE 602445266494 (Barcode: 602445266494) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2022
This is the first album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with guitarist Bill FrisellFind albums by this artist and bassist Thomas MorganFind albums by this artist. It is a live recording. The album presents five tracks, three composed by Lloyd and two standards.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label label and lately for Blue NoteFind albums on this label are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age.
This album offers a highly melodic, almost romantic music, with some Bluesy tendencies, which features Lloyd playing floatingly, playfully and as always masterly, supported amicably by the guitar, played by Frisell, who records with him continuously since 2015, and the delicate bass lines by Morgan. Lloyd is undisputedly the main soloist and the lengthy tracks allow him to perform wave after wave of improvisation, which stays respectfully within the melodic and harmonic framework.
It is pretty amazing to hear Lloyd in such superb form, which defies any speculations about aging musicians. His tone is still crystal clear, and the notes appear in a perfect flow, without the slightest hesitance, with the Master being in total control at all time.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz music, serene and lyrical, which flows gently and gracefully, as if time is of no substance. Of course all three albums in this series, although completely different from each other, are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 31/07/2024Posted: 31/07/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: OCEAN
BLUE NOTE 602445266814 (Barcode: 602445266814) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2022
This is the second album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with pianist Gerald ClaytonFind albums by this artist and guitarist Anthony WilsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents four tracks, all composed by Lloyd.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label label and lately for Blue NoteFind albums on this label are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age, like Clayton on this album.
This album offers a highly melodic, almost romantic music, with some Bluesy tendencies, which features Lloyd playing floatingly, playfully and as always masterly, supported amicably mostly by the piano, with the guitar being less dominant on this album. Lloyd is undisputedly the main soloist and the lengthy tracks allow him to perform wave after wave of improvisation, which stays respectfully within the melodic and harmonic framework. Clayton, as usual, keeps close to the well paved mainstream trickery, while Wilson adds some beautiful melodic layers, but they both respectfully leave the center stage to the Guru.
It is pretty amazing to hear Lloyd in such superb form, which defies any speculations about aging musicians. His tone is still crystal clear, and the notes appear in a perfect flow, without the slightest hesitance, with the Master being in total control at all time.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz music, serene and lyrical, which flows gently and gracefully, as if time is of no substance. Of course all three albums in this series, although completely different from each other, are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 31/07/2024Posted: 19/02/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ TRIOS: SACRED THREAD
BLUE NOTE 602445266876 (Barcode: 602445266876) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2022
This is the third album in the series of “Trio of Trios” albums by the legendary American Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / bandleader Charles LloydFind albums by this artist, recorded with Indian percussionist Zakir HussainFind albums by this artist and guitarist Julian LageFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, four composed by Lloyd and three by Hussein.
One of the true “last of the Mohicans” of American Jazz, Charles Lloyd (born in 1938), remains still at his full capacity and his recording legacy keeps growing, now at his advanced age, more rapidly than during earlier periods of his life. Highly productive phases of recording for the ECMFind albums on this label labels and lately for Blue NoteFind albums by this artist are just exploding with creativity, vitality and aesthetic beauty, in complete disregard of his age, created often with musicians less than half his age, like Lage on this album.
This album offers a highly spiritual music, mostly a Jazz-World Fusion oriented pieces, strongly influenced by Indian scales and rhythms, with strong presence of the masterly performances by Hussein, who plays a very central role in this trio. Listeners familiar with Hussein’s contribution to Jazz music over the year will be hardly surprised, but the album is certainly very different from what is usually expected from Lloyd, who plays mostly flute and tárogató (Hungarian wind instrument) and Hussain sings extensive vocal parts.
Overall, this is a beautiful piece of Jazz-World Fusion music, serene and contemplative, which requires patience and open-mindedness, but is certainly highly rewarding. Of course all three albums in this series are equally worthwhile and recommended.
| | Updated: 18/01/2024Posted: 18/01/2024 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD ~ VOICE IN THE NIGHT
ECM 1674 (Barcode: 731455944525) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999
Legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist continues his quest, now in the fifth decade of his activity, building up a legendary status as one of the most talented and original Jazz Masters. His accumulative legacy as a recording artist is truly immense, ranging from Bebop to Free, but his unique voicing and extraordinary sensitivity, both as a player and a composer, set him aside from most. Lloyd resumed his recording activity in the late 1980s on the ECMFind albums on this label label, where he released a series of wonderful albums, this one being a prime example of his abilities. The quartet consists of US guitarist John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, British bassist Dave HollandFind albums by this artist and US drummer Billy HigginsFind albums by this artist. Together they perform six original compositions by Lloyd and two standards, all of which are truly moving. There is little need to encourage anybody to try this out, as people, who understand Jazz, already are more that convinced. Brilliant stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Christopher Brice
Very interesting interplay between Lloyd and Abercrombie, so that the guitarist merges more than usual with the other lead, and does not stick always to the trade mark Abercrombie style, sounding sometimes like Wes Montgomery and occasionally almost like Mark Knopfler!
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | CHARLES LLOYD / MARIA FARANTOURI ~ ATHENS CONCERT
ECM 2205/06 (Barcode: 602527678337) ~ USA ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2011
A meeting of two musical Colossi: legendary US saxophonist / composer Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and no less legendary Greek singer Maria FarantouriFind albums by this artist, known worldwide not only a Greece´s first Lady of song but also as her country´s voice of conscience and political activism. Farantouri´s association with Greek national composer Mikis TheodorakisFind albums by this artist since the 1960s has placed her both in the centre of the country´s cultural life and its political struggle for liberty. Lloyd and Farantouri developed a close personal friendship over many years, which resulted in exposing him to Greek culture, history and of course music. Slowly they collected material they could perform together, which eventually let to this magical evening of music, captured live in the footsteps of the Acropolis. The participants include also the members of the Charles Lloyd quartet: pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, bassist Reuben RogersFind albums by this artist and drummer Eric HarlandFind albums by this artist and two Greek musicians: Socratis SinopoulosFind albums by this artist on lyra and Takis FarazisFind albums by this artist on piano. Together these seven Artists create a universe of music so beautiful and aesthetically fulfilling that it leaves the listener completely awestruck and overwhelmed. Of course the marriage of Jazz with other forms of music like Folklore, World Music or Classical is quite common these days, but some of these attempts definitely work better than others. This one works wonderfully and presents not only a perfect amalgam of different musical traditions but also a perfect marriage of music and words, or in more global sense a cultural melting pot of rare magnitude. Thousands of years of human history, from ancient Greece to now, and thousands of miles linking Africa, Europe and America, all come together here, symbolizing the universality of the human culture, which knows no borders, no nations and no disparity. In the world completely obsessed with total decadence and complete lack of any values, cultural and moral, people who are able to make such artistic statement as this one should be cherished and applauded and I humbly join the ones who do just that. A strikingly beautiful piece of music!
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  | CHARLES LLOYD / JASON MORAN ~ HAGAR`S SONG
ECM 2311 (Barcode: 602537245505) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is a beautiful duo album by veteran US saxophonist Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and much younger pianist Jason MoranFind albums by this artist, who plays with Lloyd since several years. The album comprises of fourteen pieces, eight of which are Jazz / Rock / Pop standards, which receive here a very special treatment and one is an original composition by Lloyd. The remaining five are also composed by Lloyd and constitute a musical suite, which gives the album its title.
Lloyd´s status as a player is beyond legendary and his latest output completely defies the limitations that age imposes on people, which is absolutely astounding. His tone, sensibility, aesthetics and virtuosity are simply stunning and being enhanced by maturity and experience give a new meaning to the term "musical perfection". Moran, one of the most important pianists to emerge on the US scene in the last decade, proves to be both a worthy partner and a faithful supporter to Lloyd´s artistry.
Lloyd´s decision to revisit some of the most iconic Jazz standards, as well as no less iconic pieces by Bob DylanFind albums by this artist or Brian WilsonFind albums by this artist (the Beach BoysFind albums by this artist) is somewhat surprising, as he is known to concentrate mostly on his original material. These Jazz standards are obviously very dear to his heart to return to them with such love and sensitivity. The non-Jazz material is a nice reminder of the period when Lloyd´s music was a part of the emerging Jazz-Rock scene in the US, one of the most exciting periods in music history.
Lloyd plays flutes on this album, which is also quite a rare occasion to be reminded how beautifully he can handle that instrument as well. The interplays and musical conversations between him and Moran are a striking example of mutual empathy, understanding and respect between musicians, regardless of their age difference.
Overall this is a superb album, full of deeply moving music from start to finish, perfectly and most sensitively performed by Master musicians and beautifully recorded. One can hardly ask for anything more as far as musical aesthetics and creativity are concerned. This is superb music in every respect and a must for any serious Jazz listener.
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  | LOTUS EATERS ~ FOR VERY SAD AND VERY TIRED
WHYPLAYJAZZ 012 (Barcode: 4050486098578) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by the quartet called Lotus EatersFind albums by this artist, led by German saxophonist / composer Wanja SlavinFind albums by this artist and including pianist Rainer BohmFind albums by this artist, Danish bassist Andreas LangFind albums by this artist and drummer Tobias BackhausFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Philipp GropperFind albums by this artist guests on one track. For Slavin, who in the past was a student of my dear friend Leszek ZadloFind albums by this artist, this is a second album as a leader, following the debut entitled "SciroccoFind albums with this title" from 2010. The album presents six tunes, five of which are originals and one is a standard by Billy StrayhornFind albums by this artist, which gives both the album and the group their respective names.
In the liner notes Slavin refers to his original compositions as "inspired by" certain Jazz tunes or Jazz musicians, like Charles LloydFind albums by this artist or Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist. These compositions are very melodic, mostly low key ballads, full of melancholy and lyricism. The quartet performs them delicately and with an obvious respect, trying not to push them beyond their original framework. The last rack is the most open and includes an extended freely improvised section, but the overall impression is quite "conventional", which is rather unusual for the albums released on the WhyPlayJazzFind albums on this label label.
The individual statements by the quartet members are all splendid. Slavin´s alto saxophone has a mellow, enchanting tone, which caresses the listener´s ears gently. Bohm does a wonderful job supporting the leader and although plays little foreground solos, his background layers are as much important. Lang is as usual simply outstanding and step by step becomes one of my favorite bassist of the young European scene. Backhaus is a bit too busy for my taste and not completely compatible with the album´s concept, but perhaps his activity provides a contrast which has a positive influence on the overall sonic result.
This kind of music should be accessible to a wide range of Jazz listeners, as there is so much to like herein, that everybody can hand on to something else that strikes a chord; some will like the tunes, others the splendid performances and yet others might be delighted by the degree of freedom and space present, in spite of the seemingly "simple" approach. Regardless of the specific viewpoint, it is very hard not to like this album from the first hearing. Well done!
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | NUCLEUS ~ HEMISPHERES
HUX 078 (Barcode: 682970000787) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1971 Released: 2006
Led by trumpeter / composer Ian CarrFind albums by this artist, NucleusFind albums by this artist were not only the most important UK Jazz-Rock ensemble but in fact one of world’s pioneers of the genre. Carr created Nucleus to take the next step in his already well-established Jazz career. During the 1960s Carr was a co leader of the Don RendellFind albums by this artist / Ian Carr Quintet, one of the best UK modern Jazz ensembles. However by the end of the 1960s Carr felt a need to change his direction and move into the Rock influenced Jazz-Rock Fusion. Following the steps of US pioneers of the genre like Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist and Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and UK ensembles like the Graham Bond OrganizationFind albums by this artist, Carr put together a group of the best players on the UK scene to create Nucleus. The band was an instant success and a revelation, soon to be recognized as the leading force of the newborn genre. The first incarnation of the group included (in addition to Ian Carr who played trumpet and flugelhorn) Karl JenkinsFind albums by this artist on electric piano and oboe, Brian SmithFind albums by this artist on tenor and soprano saxophones, Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist on guitar, Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist on bass and John MarshallFind albums by this artist on drums. Between 1970 and 1971 this lineup recorded three fabulous albums: Elastic RockFind albums with this title, We`ll Talk About It LaterFind albums with this title and Solar PlexusFind albums with this title, which belong to the absolute classics of the genre. This album includes two live performances of this incarnation of Nucleus, recorded almost a year apart. The sound quality is truly amazing and the performances are stellar. Most of the material is taken from the a.m. three albums, but previously never released tunes are also included, which makes this album even more important. This is a prime example of European Jazz-Rock at its best, alive and kicking. Absolutely essential listening!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAY RUSSELL QUARTET ~ THE COMPLETE SPONTANEOUS EVENT
JAZZ IN BRITAIN 74 (Barcode: 5060774190814) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2024
This is a live archival album by British Jazz guitarist / composer / bandleader Ray RussellFind albums by this artist. It collects five live BBC radio broadcasts recorded by Russell and his quartet between 1967 and 1969, with pianists Roy FryFind albums by this artist or Peter LemerFind albums by this artist, bassists Dave HollandFind albums by this artist or Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan RushtonFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twenty tracks, seventeen of which are original compositions by Russell, one is by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, one by Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and one is a standard. The sound quality of the recordings is brilliant, and hard to believe these recordings were done almost sixty years ago. A few of these tracks were released on an LP in 2000, the early days of the fabulous Jazz In BritainFind albums on this label label, and now the complete material is available, for which all British Jazz fans are eternally grateful.
Russell is undoubtedly one of the great silent heroes of the British Jazz scene, rarely in the limelight but continuously active behind the scenes, an author of countless compositions and extensive work as composer of soundtracks for films and TV, a sought after session player with myriad of albums he plays on, but sadly with rather limited recorded legacy as a leader. Most of his albums as a leader originate from the late 1960s and early 1970s, including those by the brilliant Brass Rock ensemble Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist, which he led. Therefore, this excellent album is even more important to portray his contributions.
The music on this album is stylistically quite “well behaved”, as far as the melodic compositions are concerned, strongly rooted in the Jazz tradition, before Russell moved into the more Fusion oriented pathway. His guitar work is absolutely brilliant, displaying his total control of the instrument and stunning technique, continuity and flow. These were pivotal times for the new modern British Jazz scene, where the essence of the new British feel, elegance, sophistication and unique esthetics were forged, which this album portrays splendidly. In retrospect there were very few guitar players in UK at the time, of such class and proficiency.
Overall, this is another “bull’s eye” release by Jazz In Britain, which just keeps the juices of the British Jazz history fans flowing, by unearthing such marvelous treasures from the past. Meticulously researched, offering best possible sound quality and most importantly digging deep into the archives, spearing no efforts to bring us the music, this is a true labor of love. Personally this is one of the strongest releases on the label, although everything they release is worth having. Thank you!
| | Updated: 24/01/2025Posted: 24/01/2025 | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOBO STENSON ~ VERY EARLY
DRAGON 304 (Barcode: 7391953003044) ~ SWEDEN ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 1997
This is an expanded reissue / remaster of the third album by the great Swedish pianist / composer Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio format with bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist. Originally released in 1987, this CD edition adds three bonus tracks not present on the LP. The album presents nine tracks, one of which is an original composition by Stenson and another by Jormin, and the rest are standards.
The music is absolutely delightful, classic Jazz piano trio setting and modern mainstream repertoire, emphasizing the talents of three Giant musicians. Stenson is one of the great European romantics, whose music can be followed on the impressive series of recordings for the ECMFind albums on this label label, starting with his debut album from 1971 and the latest one (at the time of writing) released in 2023. Stenson released only two albums as a leader outside of his ECM recordings, this one being one of them.
Jormin is one of my favorite Jazz bassist, a true virtuoso and a brilliantly sensitive player, with an impressive recording legacy both as a leader and member of groups led by Charles LloydFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist.
Carlsson, one of Sweden’s Jazz Godfathers, known to be the drummer of choice by many American Jazz musicians, who played often in Sweden on the 1960s and 1970s. He is also known to Polish Jazz followers as a member of the early groups led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist.
Overall, this is an excellent Jazz piano trio album, which shows the Swedish / European Jazz at its best, and is a delightful musical experience from start to finish. Piano trio buffs will be absolutely smitten by this music, especially if they were not previously exposed to the early years of Stenson. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 03/08/2023Posted: 03/08/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
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