Record Reviews
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  | AUGUSCIK & JAGODZINSKI TRIO ~ SZEPTEM
MJT 11725 (Barcode: 5906409117255) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2016
This is an exquisite album by Polish Jazz Diva Grazyna AuguscikFind albums by this artist recorded with the classic piano trio led by pianist / arranger Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist which also includes bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine Polish evergreens, beautifully transcribed into the Jazz idiom by Jagodzinski.
The album is a loving tribute to the Polish popular songbook, collecting nine wonderful ballads written over a period of many years by some of the best Polish composers and lyricists, which points out clearly what t takes to create a great song, which can last for posterity: a beautiful melody and intelligent poetic lyrics.
The songs are performed with a very minimalistic approach. Auguscik sings the melodies in a very straightforward manner, eschewing almost completely the typical Jazz mannerisms and improvisations (except for a few vocalese parts), emphasizing the lyrics which are pronounced clearly and elegantly. The piano trio, which provides the Jazzy background, treads also carefully, with Jagodzinski playing the chords behind the vocalist and soloing rather sparingly. It is the rhythm section which keeps the music swinging at all times and doing a superb work at that.
One can only hope that this album will find its way into the hands of the young generation of Polish music connoisseurs, who should be able to discover the treasures of their National musical heritage while listening to this music. However, if this music should reach only listeners in the third age group, it would be tragic overlook.
Both Auguscik and Jagodzinski should be praised for preserving Polish Culture in general and the Polish musical heritage, which they have been doing for many years. The fascination with music originating from other sources, which often blinds many Polish musicians as to their own roots, is luckily balanced by their activity.
What a great way to start a new year (2017) by writing this review, which talks about old, but not forgotten music, that has been given new life. Blindly idolizing the "new" has proven to be a disastrous path, so please let´s enjoy this wondrous journey into the past, for the benefit of the future. Kudos!
| | Updated: 01/01/2017Posted: 01/01/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAREK BLIZINSKI ~ WAVE
POLJAZZ / ANEX 327 (Barcode: 5907513047827) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 - 1980 Released: 2009
This is the only album as a leader recorded by Polish Jazz guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, who was one of the first Jazz guitar players on the local scene. He was a very in-demand session player and participated in many recordings as well as recording with several groups of which he was a formal member, led by such Polish Jazz luminaries like Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. He was a brilliant improviser and had a wonderful tone, which ornamented many important Polish Jazz recordings.
His solo career, however, never really took off and this was the only album he managed to release as a leader, before his untimely and tragic death at the age of 42. The album consists of two radio sessions, with Blizinski playing on both in a trio format, first with bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and then with bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. Both these rhythm sections are considered to be among the best ones ever active on the local scene. The album includes seven compositions, all of which are standards.
Although well played, both by Blizinski and the rhythm sections, this album does not present his true abilities and sensitivities and in retrospect is unfortunately much less impressive than it could have been. Playing these standards, which present no true intellectual challenge for these experienced musicians, was a poor decision. His numerous recordings with other artists are much more impressive.
Guitar enthusiasts will obviously find here many beautiful moments of mainstream Jazz, with are every bit as good as those recorded across the pond. Definitely worth remembering!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | IN-FORMATION ~ IN-FORMATION TRIO
POLSKIE RADIO 1248 (Barcode: 5907812242480) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2013
This is the second installment in a series of releases documenting the recorded legacy of the great Polish Jazz pianist / composer Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, most of which is released for the first time. Kulpowicz, who died prematurely in 2008 at the age of 56, was a victim of cancer. He was a member of groups led by the top Polish Jazz players like Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and led / co-led his own ensembles like The QuartetFind albums by this artist, In-FormationFind albums by this artist and also cooperated with many other musicians over the years. He was an avid follower of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s music and kept in touch with Coltrane´s wife Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist. Following his visit to India, Kulpowicz discovered Indian music and the spiritual aura of India, which became his own.
Following the demise of The Quartet, Kulpowicz founded a new ensemble, which he called In-Formation. Over time several different versions of In-Formation existed, including a duo, the basic piano trio, presented here, quartet and even sextet. In retrospect the trio proved to be the most successful incarnation of the group. It included bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Vitold RekFind albums by this artist) and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The same trio also served as the rhythm section of the Tomasz Stanko quartet in the early 1980s, recording with him two most impressive albums: "Music 81Find albums with this title" and "A I JFind albums with this title" (both recorded at the same session).
In-Formation recorded two albums for the PoljazzFind albums on this label label, the second of which is partly (three tracks) also included here. The rest of the album (five more tracks) originates in two radio sessions recorded earlier in the same year. All the music was composed by Kulpowicz and is a direct continuation of his John Coltrane / McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist influenced style presented earlier by The Quartet. Of course the trio´s music is much less intense sonically than the quartet´s massive sound, but not less complex or spiritually evolved. Kulpowicz carries, as expected, most of the load, producing his usual vamped chords and dense cadenzas of amazing fluency and virtuosity. The rhythm section supports him splendidly, with Rek emphasizing the melody riffs and Bartkowski providing the swinging drive carrying the music in fast forward most of the album´s duration.
The piano trio, which is the ultimate Jazz showcase, was quite a neglected Art form at the time this music was recorded. Therefore these recordings are even more special, as there was no other parallel outfit on the Polish Jazz scene at the time. Of course the piano trio would triumphantly return and re-appear on the Jazz scene later on, including of course the local Polish scene, but at that particular time In-Formation trio was completely unique.
This album is not only a great example of the Jazz piano trio Art, but also a very important document of the development of the Polish Jazz scene. Of course it´s an absolute must have for all Polish Jazz connoisseurs and collectors, but every piano trio buff around the globe should find this quite a treat. Great stuff!
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  | JACHNA / TARWID / KARCH ~ SUNDIAL
FOR TUNE 0039 (Barcode: 5902768701418) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 - 2014 Released: 2014
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz trio fronted by trumpeter / composer Wojciech JachnaFind albums by this artist with two very young newcomers to the scene, pianist Grzegorz TarwidFind albums by this artist and drummer Albert KarchFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, one of which is repeated twice and another three times, producing ten tracks all together. The music includes individually composed pieces, others which are co-composed by Jachna and Tarwid and still others co-composed by all three members of the trio.
In the last decade Jachna has been slowly, but firmly establishing his position as one of the top Polish Jazz trumpet players. His work with the Sing Sing PenelopeFind albums by this artist ensemble and his duets with drummer Jacek BuhlFind albums by this artist belong to some of the most impressive achievements of Polish Jazz during the last decade, which after all is densely populated in the trumpet department. In time he developed a unique voicing on both trumpet and flugelhorn, which for old people like me constantly bring fond reminiscences of the early days of Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Jachna is not imitating Stanko nor is he trying consciously to sound like him, but his way of phrasing and the "dirty", coarse tone are simply so characteristic, that the immediate resemblance is unavoidable.
The two youngsters share common music studies in Denmark, where hordes of young and talented Polish Jazz players go to polish their knowledge and chops, but most importantly they evidently share their talents and passion for music. Tarwid, who has been called a musical prodigy after winning several piano competitions at a ridiculous young age, proves that he is no gimmick and his piano work certainly fills the heart with hope for days to come. Karch, who studied with Polish Jazz drumming icon Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, is also quite a hot potato, as the music herein firmly confirms.
Together the trio is definitely one of the freshest and most impressive new ensembles on the Polish Jazz scene and this debut emerges as one of the most striking recordings released in Poland this year. Everything that makes Polish Jazz so unique and outstanding is reflected on this album: a search for new ways to express emotions, a complete freedom from conventions, a disregard towards obvious and boring musical methodology and at the same time a deep respect towards the music´s profound tradition and aesthetics. As always, the fact that music of such magnitude can be produced by musicians of such remarkably young age is nothing short of astounding.
The true depth of this music can be fully appreciated only if one takes a much broader view of it, beyond the Jazz conventions. It is no less relevant as a component of improvised chamber music, an imaginary ambient soundtrack or any other open minded musical exploration, which is genre free and at the same time cross-genre.
Over the last decade I have invested a lot of emotions and hopes into Jachna´s music and it makes me extremely happy that he was able to come up with this culminating work, which was unquestionably worth waiting for. His choice of partners and his persistency finally came into fruition, which should make him and his companions tremendously proud. Chapeau to all the Young Lions!
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  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ CHOPIN LES BRILLANTES
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788393067404) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010
This is the fifth album dedicated to Jazz interpretations of the music composed by the great Polish composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist recorded by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. This double album is a fact a new recording of the same material that is featured on the trio´s first two albums recorded fifteen years earlier, re-captured from a retrospective view and enriched by years of common experiences and joy of playing this music together.
When Jagodzinski first recorded Chopin´s music twenty years ago he was pioneering a trend, which in time swept the Polish Jazz scene like a tsunami, with literally hundreds of albums with Chopin´s music reinterpreted in the Jazz milieu. These attempts to follow a trend and jump on a bandwagon, which varied in quality form important and innovative to completely redundant and often preposterous, eventually had an adverse effect on the Polish Jazz fans, who had just about enough of Jazzy Chopin being showed down their throats.
Even if the original recording of Chopin´s music by Jagodzinski and his trio were not perfect and lacked the practice, they were bold, innovative and fresh. Sadly the repeated attempt, although richer and with better arrangements, lacks the original qualities and therefore is in some respect not such a great idea. Of course Jagodzinski and his cohorts are superb musicians and do a wonderful job playing on this album, but sticking to the original recordings is by and large preferable and sounds like a good idea. On the other hand since the original PoloniaFind albums on this label releases are not easily available, perhaps this album can fill the gap.
Overall there is plenty of great music herein, as well as excellent playing by these legendary veterans and in case you don´t own the original recordings this one is definitely worth checking out.
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  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ KONCERT FORTEPIANOWY G-MOLL
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788393067442) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist is one of the veterans of the local scene and a prominent figure among his peers. He was one of the first musicians to record Jazz versions of the music by the great Polish composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, and his trio recording of Chopin´s works from the early 1990s remains a classic of this variety and started a trend, which continues to this very day and produced dozens of similar projects over time, some of which are completely redundant.
This album takes Jagodzinski to a whole new level of the Jazz-Classical Fusion trend, with a piano concerto he composed for a Jazz piano trio and orchestra, presented here. The piano trio consists of Jagodzinski and two other Polish Jazz veterans: bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The orchestral parts are performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra directed by Wojciech ZielinskiFind albums by this artist.
The three-part concerto consists of melodic / romantic atmospheric music, which is heard mostly in the background, supporting the piano trio. The themes are all quite well-rounded and easy on the ear, easily accessible to the average listener and not really challenging his intellect. The trio performance is very good, as expected from such distinguished musicians, but also lacks a certain degree of excitement, which is expected in Jazz. The entire project seems to be making an effort of not stepping on anybody´s toes.
Overall this is a very "slick" piece of music, which undoubtfully will find many eager listeners, who like romantic, lyrical orchestral music. Enthusiasts of more ambitious Jazz projects might find this disappointing. The album lasts only for about 36 minutes, which really puts it in the EP category, regardless of the elegant digibook packaging.
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  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ MUZYKA POLSKA
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788393067428) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2009 - 2010 Released: 2011
This is a beautiful and very ambitious album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, also involving the great vocalist Grazyna AuguscikFind albums by this artist and two Classical Music soloists: flautist Jadwiga KotnowskaFind albums by this artist and harpist Anna Sikorzak-OlekFind albums by this artist, as well as the AUKSO Chamber OrchestraFind albums by this artist conducted by Marek MosFind albums by this artist. The album presents a seven part Jazz suite for piano trio, voice, string orchestra and soloist, which attempts to "define" what "Polish Music" means in general and especially in the Jazz context as what we understand under the term "Polish Jazz". Five parts of the suite are based on Polish Folk tunes, one is a Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist composition and one is a tune composed by Marcin JanuszkiewiczFind albums by this artist. Jagodzinski and Auguscik arranged the vocal parts and Jagodzinski wrote the elaborate piano trio / string orchestra arrangements.
The concept behind this album obviously points towards the conclusion that contemporary Polish Music / Polish Jazz are a synthesis of the Polish Folk tradition with contemporary music forms. The Polish Folk tradition is most obviously identified with the Polish Folklore dances, such as kujawiak, mazurka, oberek and others, but also with the intrinsic Polish melancholy and lyricism, which create its unique characteristics, which are instantly recognizable to a trained ear. Regardless of the concept, this album is first and foremost a true celebration of music, crossing and bridging between Folklore, Jazz and Classical Music and doing it in an impressive, intelligent and truly beautiful way. All the parts and ideas fall together into an amazing amalgam, which is a delightful listening experience.
The album is also a wonderful platform to enjoy the individual contributions by the participating musicians. Auguscik again proves that she has very little competition on the local scene and her wonderful sensitivity and power of expression are simply stunning. Her appearance on this album is somewhat prophetic in the sense that her album "Inspired By LutoslawskiFind albums with this title", which was recorded four years after this one, would deal with the same subject matter. Jagodzinski, who also plays accordion on this album, and his trio cohorts, as well as the soloists and orchestra all perform spotlessly and harmoniously, with obvious dedication and joy of creation.
This is the best album by far that Jagodzinski recorded during his splendid career, and one of the best attempts to create a coherent musical concept, dedicated to Polish Music. Personally I´d love to see more such attempts done by other musicians. Discovering one´s musical roots and traditions is surely preferable to imitating other cultures.
This album is a pure delight from start to finish and I recommend it wholeheartedly to every Polish Jazz fan, as it reveals many of the innermost secrets about what Polish Jazz really means.
| | Updated: 11/01/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ REQUIEM
POLSKIE RADIO KATOWICE 142 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022
The great Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist has been a pillar of the local Jazz scene since the early 1990s, with an impressive recording legacy, which includes some of Polish Jazz classic albums, both as a leader and sideman / accompanist. His musical style is firmly based in the Jazz mainstream, but he also flirts passionately with the Jazz-Classical Fusion idiom. His groundbreaking 1993 album “ChopinFind albums with this title” established the Polish Jazz tradition of interpreting the music of the Polish National composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, which is still quite popular thirty years later, sadly largely abused and misunderstood by now.
The music on this album perfectly depicts the marriage between Jazz and Classical / Sacred music. It incorporates the classic Jazz piano trio, which is Jagodzinski’s modus operandi in the last three decades, with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, with a mixed choir Camerata SilesiaFind albums by this artist, directed by Anna SzostakFind albums by this artist and three renowned Polish Jazz vocalists: Grazyna AuguscikFind albums by this artist, Agnieszka WilczynskaFind albums by this artist and Wojciech MyrczekFind albums by this artist. The six-part Requiem is loosely based on the traditional Requiem structure and form, but obviously includes strong Jazz elements, as expressed by the trio improvisations and the vocalese parts by the three vocalists, with the choir providing the traditional sacred oriented parts.
It is extremely difficult to balance the Classical and Jazz elements within one musical piece, which often leads straight into the kitsch pit. But in this case Jagodzinski and the wonderful performers manage to create a coherent, elegant and harmonious unification, which makes perfect sense musically and aesthetically, with a truly moving effect. As a result, the music is universally appealing to a wide range of music lovers, from both idioms.
Overall, this is a beautiful example of cross-genre exploration, which as a result of the talent and experience of its creator and his team emerges as a sublime piece of music, which preserves both traditions and finds a peaceful coexistence, where the result is bigger than just the sum of its parts. Jagodzinski does not disappoint, and his “magic touch” is felt in every note, every nuance and every melodic theme on this album. As usual, I simply raise my hat to you Maestro, and wait for the next time I can hear you performing live, which is always a transcending experience.
| | Updated: 02/12/2022Posted: 02/12/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ W HOLDZIE WOLNOSCI
POLSKIE RADIO 1986 (Barcode: 5907812249861) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is a live recording of a concert performed by veteran Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, which was organized to commemorate the fifteenth Anniversary of the IPN (Institute of National Remembrance). For the concert Jagodzinski collected thirteen pieces of Polish music, which constitute a soundtrack of the Polish struggle for Freedom, both National and Political. They range from music composed by the Polish National composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist to popular Folk and Pop songs, mostly those related in many ways to the Polish underground struggle during WW II, including the heroic Warsaw Ghetto uprising and the no less heroic Warsaw Uprising, the anti-Communist struggle following the immediate post-WW II years and up to the Solidarity movement, which finally led to the creation of the Free Polish Republic with the fall of the Soviet Empire.
These are all undoubtedly patriotic songs, one way or another, and in time when patriotism is often not considered as "politically correct", it is encouraging to see musicians taking a clear stand, without being ashamed or intimidated by it. Polish Jazz history has always been intertwined with political messages, as was Polish Literature, Poetry, Film and all other Arts. Being able to state one´s political or patriotic view is after all an integral ingredient of the very Freedom, Poles have been fighting for so long.
Jagodzinski "called to arms" some of the top Polish Jazz musicians on this album: vocalists Anna StankiewiczFind albums by this artist and Agnieszka WilczynskaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Janusz StrobelFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. They all perform brilliantly, which is hardly surprising considering their experience and talent, creating a sensitive, intelligent and moving piece of meaningful music with carries a clear message without being vulgar or offensive. Jagodzinski´s arrangements are all elegant and tasteful, suiting the atmosphere ideally.
Of course this album has a layer which speaks only to people, who understand the Polish language and have some knowledge of Polish history. Nevertheless it has also universal values, which should be able to cross language barriers.
This album made very little impact on the Polish Jazz scene at the time of its release, which is a great pity. The fragmented and often plainly divided Polish Society should really grow up put aside its political differences, when it comes to appreciation of Art or human relationships. The precious Freedom is after all so fragile and easily lost..
| | Updated: 11/10/2016Posted: 11/10/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI TRIO ~ BACH
STUDIO REALIZACJI MYSLI TWORCZ (Barcode: 5907222840047) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2020
This is an album by veteran Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist recorded with his fabulous trio with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests, the album is dedicated to the music of Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist and presents six of his compositions, beautifully transformed into the Jazz idiom.
Playing Bach by Jazz musicians is of course nothing new and the romance goes back to the early 1960s, when French pianist / composer Jacques LoussierFind albums by this artist made a grand career by Jazzing up Bach’s compositions for the crowds, and many other Jazz musicians since tried to tackle this task, including Keith JarrettFind albums by this artist and Brad MehldauFind albums by this artist, with varying results. Bach’s music, which undoubtedly is one of the absolute pinnacles of Human artistic ingenuity, in most cases is best served by being left alone in its original form and shape, with rare exceptions.
I am happy to see (or rather hear) that Jagodzinski and his trio are up to the challenge of successfully transforming Bach’s music into the Jazz realm, served by their great sensitivity, talents and of course extensive experience. They manage to avoid trivializing this great music, keeping the original sense of flow, melody and rhythm intact, and adding the Jazzy ornamentations with carful respect of the original compositions. This is not altogether surprising taking into consideration the sublime Jazz oriented interpretations of the music by Polish National composer Frederic Chopin, which Jagodzinski and his cohorts managed to create in the past.
The performances are absolutely stellar, as expected, and although the piano is naturally in the epicenter of the sonic experience, the rhythm section also contributes some superb parts, which deserve no less admiration. Personally I hear a bit of Chopin on these interpretations of Bach, which again is hardly surprising, as Chopin’s music flows in the blood (or sub consciousness) of every Polish musician at all times.
Overall this is a wonderful album in every sense, both emotionally and intellectually, which deserves to be heard by every true lover of Jazz-Classical Fusion, Bach’s followers and Jazz piano trio enthusiasts all over the world. A true elixir for mind and body at these crazy days of misfortune and suffering.
On a personal note, almost exactly to a day last year I had the immense pleasure to attend a concert at a small Jazz club outside of Warsaw, where messieurs Jagodzinski, Cegielski and Bartkowski (and others) were performing. This was an unforgettable evening of great music and friendship, especially since it was the last live concert I managed to attend before the pandemic and the last time I was abroad…
| | Updated: 05/02/2021Posted: 05/02/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KAROLAK / SZUKALSKI / BARTKOWSKI ~ TIME KILLERS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.89 DELUXE)
MUZA 1089 (Barcode: 5907783420894) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2006
This is the only album by Polish Jazz supergroup Karolak / Szukalski / BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, which united three veterans of the local scene: keyboardist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, who wrote and arranged all the music included on this album, saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album has a very unique sound due to the unusual instrumentation, as well as a superb groove, which is usually associated with American recordings. Karolak performs the difficult task of both soloing and accompanying his partners, using the organ bass pedals to supply the bass parts. Szukalski again proves his excellent taste and technical abilities, especially on the track where he plays the baritone sax. Bartkowski is stable like a rock and drives the music forward constantly, with his usual virtuosity. This music sounds remarkably fresh almost thirty years after it was recorded, and it´s probably only a matter of time before some DJ lays his hands on this stuff and makes people dance to it. Highly recommended!
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  | KAROLAK / URBANIAK / BARTKOWSKI ~ MOVING SOUTH
POLJAZZ / ANEX 314 (Barcode: 5907513047698) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2009
This is the only album recorded by the fabulous Polish Jazz trio, comprising of keyboardist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, violinist / saxophonist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. In many respects this is a companion album to the groundbreaking album by the Michal Urbaniak ConstellationFind albums by this artist, which was released as part of the Polish Jazz series ("In ConcertFind albums with this title", Vol.36) and recorded the same year as this album. Both Karolak and Bartkowski were members of Constellation and therefore it´s hardly surprising that stylistically the music is very similar.
The album includes five compositions (one is a three-part suite), four by Karolak and one by Urbaniak, which can be roughly categorized as Jazz-Rock Fusion, but they are so unique and eons ahead of their time that simplistic labeling is not doing them justice. This is truly visionary music, capturing all three musicians at the peak of their creative powers. Although Karolak composed most of the music on this album, Urbaniak´s concept of Fusion / Funk are the primary forces at work here. His use of electronics to enhance the sound of his violin is simply brilliant and completely innovative. Karolak plays also brilliantly, with his Hammond ripping the sound-space to shreds. Bartkowski is driving the music forward like mad, being the Jazziest element of the music, busy but not intrusive, with fantastic polyrhythmic feel and incredible technique.
In retrospect this is one of the most important Polish Fusion albums, which sadly remains mostly unknown even to the local fans and especially so abroad. This reissue creates another chance for this album to be re-discovered, and I recommend to all the Fusion diehard fans to start looking for this gem ASAP!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | WOJCIECH KAROLAK ~ EASY! (POLISH JAZZ VOL.81 DELUXE)
MUZA 1081 (Barcode: 5907783420818) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2005
This relatively little known but excellent album presents Polish Jazz keyboardist / composer / arranger / bandleader Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist in a relaxed atmosphere and in company of the crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz musicians of the period that he cooperated with on many occasions before. The idea was to present a less complex / sophisticated music performed by top Jazz players, but in retrospect the result surely surpassed all the intensions and expectations and this is definitely some of the best of his work. Recorded at a time when the Jazz-Rock Fusion in Poland was rapidly developing and achieving the peak of its creativity, spearheaded by Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and his group, of which Karolak was a member. It is hardly surprising therefore that this album includes many of the characteristics of the early 1970s Polish Fusion, which of course in term was strongly influenced by the pioneering and groundbreaking work done by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist at the time, which served as a model to the entire worldwide music community. Although perhaps more melodic than the Urbaniak´s recordings, this album has plenty of innovative moves, like the usage of early synthesizers, electric piano and of course his organ, excellent brass arrangements on some tunes and superb soloing by the musicians involved, which include trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and many others. Karolak composed seven of the eight tracks on this album with one track being contributed by the great Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. Lovers of Polish Jazz should be rejoiced by the fact that this album was reissued as part of the extended legendary Polish Jazz series. A must!
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  | WOJCIECH KAROLAK ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.34
POLSKIE RADIO 2377 (Barcode: 5907812242374) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 - 2010 Released: 2021
This is the thirty-fourth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings of that period. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The music on this album presents radio recordings of live performances by one of the Godfathers of Polish Jazz, pianist / organist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, who sadly departed this year (June 2021), paying tribute to his artistry. Karolak was active on the scene since the late 1950s and his music embraced diverse genres, which included in addition to Jazz, also Blues, Rock and Fusion. The album presents nine tracks recorded between 1977 and 2010 and are a rather incidental collection spanning his various activities. Karolak composed or co-composed six of these tracks.
The first two tracks, recorded in 1987, feature the trio Time KillersFind albums by this artist, where Karolak played organ and synthesizer, which also included saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist (departed in 2012) and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist.
The next three tracks, recorded in 1985, also feature Time Killers performing three original tunes by Karolak from their only LP.
Next track, recorded in 2010, features a duo with Karolak on piano and bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist (departed 2012).
Next track, recorded in 1977, features a trio with Karolak playing organ, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist (departed 2018) and Bartkowski.
Next track, recorded in 1983, features a quartet with Karolak playing piano, trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist (departed 2016) and drummer Tadeusz FederowskiFind albums by this artist (departed 2018).
The last track, recorded in 1992, features a trio with Karolak playing organ, Szukalski and drummer Jose TorresFind albums by this artist.
The fact that six of the nine musicians playing on this album are no longer with us is a sad reminder of the phenomenon of the first generation of the Polish Jazz scene disappearing.
The series, which was brought back to life after three years of absence, offers an upgraded packaging, which finally offers liner notes, albeit those could have been better, considering the importance of this music. The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. Overall this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan should consider as a must.
| | Updated: 25/02/2023Posted: 22/12/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ~ KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA W POLSKIM RADIU VOL.02 – MUZYKA BALETOWA I FILMOWA – CZESC PIERWSZA
POLSKIE RADIO 1862 (Barcode: 5907812248628) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1959 - 1963 Released: 2014
This is the second installment in a new series of albums launched by the Polish Radio, which presents radio recordings by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer / bandleader Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. Komeda is of course the most familiar name associated with Polish Jazz and his legacy is of crucial importance to Polish and European Jazz. Considering the fact that Komeda´s studio recordings are relatively scarce, the radio recordings are in fact the main source of his recorded legacy, as they include among others the Jazz Jamboree festival appearances by Komeda and his various ensembles over the years.
Recorded between 1959 and 1963 this volume collects only original music that Komeda composed for ballet and cinema and performed with his groups during the 1961 edition of the Jazz Jamboree festival in Warsaw (one track), the 1962 edition (four tracks) and 1963 edition (one track). The remaining two tracks are radio studio recordings. The music includes the following compositions: "Ballet Etudes", written by Komeda to be performed by a Jazz ensemble accompanying ballet dancers, which had its premiere during the 1962 Jazz Jamboree with dancers from the Warsaw Opera, theme from the film "Innocent Sorcerers" directed by Andrzej WajdaFind albums by this artist and the monumental music from the debut full length film "Knife In The Water" directed by Roman PolanskiFind albums by this artist. As any Polish Jazz enthusiast knows, this is the cradle of modern Polish Jazz and includes some of its most defining moments, as well as the essence of Komeda, the composer.
The list of the musicians participating in these recordings reads like the who´s who of early modern Polish Jazz: vocalist Wanda WarskaFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, bassists Roman DylagFind albums by this artist, Adam SkorupkaFind albums by this artist, Jan ByrczekFind albums by this artist and Maciej SuzinFind albums by this artist, drummers Leszek DudziakFind albums by this artist, Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and Tadeusz FederowskiFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jozef GawrychFind albums by this artist. Three Swedish musicians also participate: saxophonist Bernt RosengrenFind albums by this artist, trombonist Eje ThelinFind albums by this artist and drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist.
Overall this is a collection of brilliant music, superbly performed, which is an absolute revelation to anybody who loves Jazz. It is a fundamental piece of every decent Jazz record collection.
The recordings are splendidly restored and remastered and nicely packaged in an elegant digipak / slipcase. Dates, places and lineups are faithfully included and even personal liner notes by young Polish Jazz critics are present, but there is no in-depth background material about Komeda and his music, however considering the plentitude of published material and several excellent books on the subject, an intelligent listener can easily bridge the knowledge gap. The only small reservation one might have is the fact that these recordings have been already released many times, more or less legally on the somewhat untamed Polish music market, which means they is already owned by the serious Polish Jazz collectors, probably more than once.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ~ KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA W POLSKIM RADIU VOL.04 – SOPHIA`S TUNE
POLSKIE RADIO 1864 (Barcode: 5907812248642) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 - 1964 Released: 2014
This is the fourth installment in a new series of albums launched by the Polish Radio, which presents radio recordings by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer / bandleader Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. Komeda is of course the most familiar name associated with Polish Jazz and his legacy is of crucial importance to Polish and European Jazz. Considering the fact that Komeda´s studio recordings are relatively scarce, the radio recordings are in fact the main source of his recorded legacy, as they include among others the Jazz Jamboree festival appearances by Komeda and his various ensembles over the years.
Recorded in 1963 and 1964 during the sixth and seventh edition of the seminal Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw, this collection showcases the legendary Komeda Quintet, which in many respects was the quintessential vehicle, which presented Komeda´s music at its pinnacle. The quintet included, besides Komeda of course, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, who play on both dates, and bassist Maciej SuzinFind albums by this artist who plays on the 1963 date and Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist who plays on the 1964 date. The album includes only five compositions, all originals by Komeda, which get an extended treatment which stretches around seventeen minutes for three of the tunes, twelve minutes for the fourth and six minutes for the tune which gives the album its titles, dedicated to Komeda´s wife Zofia.
This is obviously some of the most important Jazz music recorded in Poland during the early days of modern Polish Jazz, but also some of the most important European Jazz, which was shaping out at the time as a new wave of independent thinking, based on American Jazz tradition, but expanding the known realm with new ideas and European legacy, melancholy, folklore and other prominent factors, which eventually were to create a completely new genre altogether. Komeda´s outstanding ability to weave beautiful melodies, combined with the virtuosity of his quintet´s members, reach unprecedented emotional and aesthetic levels, which to this day can hardly be matched.
This music is a cradle of modern European Jazz, ultra modern and even Avant-Garde at the time, which almost completely rebels against American mainstream Jazz, simply doing whatever feels right, in complete disregard of conventions and stylistic limitations. The tunes develop almost spontaneously, often from a riff or a chord sequence, which hints of the melodic theme, which is often developed later on and sometimes remains hidden behind the chord changes and is never actually stated in full. The rhythmic patterns change several times during each tune, often without warning. Such dramatically novel approach is amazingly bold even today, almost fifty years later.
Overall this is a collection of excellent Jazz music, superbly performed, which is an absolute delight to anybody who loves Jazz. It is a fundamental piece of every decent Polish Jazz record collection, especially in the case of the younger generation of listeners, which is just getting acquainted with the enormous legacy of Polish Jazz.
The recordings are splendidly restored and remastered and nicely packaged in an elegant digipak / slipcase. Dates, places and lineups are faithfully included and even personal liner notes by Polish Jazz critic Maciej NowotnyFind albums by this artist are present, but there is no in-depth background material about Komeda and his music, however considering the plentitude of published material and several excellent books on the subject, an intelligent listener can easily bridge the knowledge gap. The only small reservation one might have is the fact that these recordings have been already released many times, more or less legally on the somewhat untamed Polish music market, which means they is already owned by the serious Polish Jazz collectors, probably more than once.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ~ KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA W POLSKIM RADIU VOL.05 – MUZYKA BALETOWA I FILMOWA - CZESC DRUGA
POLSKIE RADIO 1865 (Barcode: 5907812248659) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 - 1964 Released: 2015
This is the fifth installment in a new series of albums launched by the Polish Radio, which presents radio recordings by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer / bandleader Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. Komeda is of course the most familiar name associated with Polish Jazz and his legacy is of crucial importance to Polish and European Jazz. Considering the fact that Komeda´s studio recordings are relatively scarce, the radio recordings are in fact the main source of his recorded legacy, as they include among others the Jazz Jamboree festival appearances by Komeda and his various ensembles over the years.
Eight of the ten tracks on this album were recorded between 1961 and 1964 during the forth to seventh edition of the seminal Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw, this collection showcases legendary Komeda ensembles (quintet / trio), which in many respects were the quintessential vehicles, which presented Komeda´s music at its pinnacle. Two additional tracks were recorded in the Polish Radio Studio, both featuring vocals, the second of which is especially interesting as it presents an early recording by vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist.
The musicians, besides Komeda of course, include top Polish Jazz musicians at the time: trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, bassists Maciej SuzinFind albums by this artist and Roman DylagFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, vocalist Wanda WarskaFind albums by this artist and others, as well as Swedish musicians: saxophonist Bernt RosengrenFind albums by this artist and drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist.
The music is of course selected to reflect Komeda´s involvement with composing music for cinema, theatre and ballet. A few bonus tracks are also added, which are not connected with the above, but present rarely heard Komeda´s recording. Overall this is a collection of excellent Jazz music, superbly performed, which is an absolute delight to anybody who loves Jazz. It is a fundamental piece of every decent Polish Jazz record collection, especially in the case of the younger generation of listeners, which is just getting acquainted with the enormous legacy of Polish Jazz.
The recordings are splendidly restored and remastered and nicely packaged in an elegant digipak / slipcase. Dates, places and lineups are faithfully included and even personal liner notes by Polish Jazz critic Filip KosinskiFind albums by this artist are present, but there is no in-depth background material about Komeda and his music, however considering the plentitude of published material and several excellent books on the subject, an intelligent listener can easily bridge the knowledge gap. The only small reservation one might have is the fact that these recordings have been already released many times, more or less legally on the somewhat untamed Polish music market, which means they is already owned by the serious Polish Jazz collectors, probably more than once.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROLF KUHN ~ SOLARIUS
EDEL CONTENT 4029759080473 (Barcode: 4029759080473) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 2012
This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the seminal album by legendary German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist (born 1929), recorded with a quintet, which also included his younger brother pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist (born 1944) and bassist Klaus KochFind albums by this artist and two Polish Jazz legends: saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents six pieces: three original compositions by Rolf Kuhn, two original compositions by Joachim Kuhn and one arrangement of a folk tune.
Over the years this album achieved a legendary status and became a highly sought after collector´s item, because of its political implications, as well as being one of the earliest East European Jazz recordings and an important cornerstone of European Jazz in general. The album was recorded three years after the Berlin Wall, which divided the city until 1989, was constructed and served during that period not only as a symbol of division of Germany into two separate States living in a constant state of political tension, but in fact also as a symbol of the imaginary Iron Curtain, which divided the European Continent into two opposing political camps, engaged in the Cold War, which periodically threatened to become "hot".
Rolf Kuhn left East Germany (or DDR as it was called at the time) in 1950, shortly after Germany was split into two separate states, and moved to West Germany. For several years he lived and performed in the USA, establishing his position as one of the top clarinet players in the world. Upon his return to West Germany he continued his prolific career. Meanwhile his younger brother Joachim Kuhn lived in DDR and led his own trio, which was a pioneering Free Jazz outfit at the time.
The fact that the meeting of the Kuhn brothers captured on this album happened is one of those "against all odds" situations that often happened in East Europe. This was by all means a meeting of the Giants of East European modern Jazz, with Urbaniak arriving from the legendary Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist quintet, Bartkowski from the no less legendary Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist quartet, Koch who played in the Joachim Kuhn trio and finally the two brothers, who despite the age difference are true musical twins.
Together the quintet plays some of the best modern European Jazz ever captured on record, with great melodies expanded into lengthy solos played perfectly by all the musicians involved. Listeners familiar with the Polish Jazz scene will find this music quite similar to the Komeda and Namyslowski albums receded around that time, which present the same formula and even sound very similar to this album. Rolf Kuhn plays some of the best Jazz clarinet ever and no true Jazz connoisseur can honestly afford not to have this album in his collection.
The rapport and incredible telepathic communication between these musicians, as well as the incredibly tight musical environment that pushed the players to their limits resulted in one of the all time best Jazz albums recorded in East Europe, which lost absolutely nothing of its beauty and incredible power in the five decades that passed since.
They don´t make music like that any more, which means this is an absolute must and an essential piece of music history!
Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems.
Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!
| | Updated: 11/05/2016Posted: 22/03/2016 | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT MAJEWSKI ~ TRIBUTE TO HENRYK MAJEWSKI
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788365344014) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This album is exactly what it is supposed to be: a loving tribute to one of the Godfathers of Polish Jazz, trumpeter / composer Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, recorded by his colleagues and sons to commemorate the tenth anniversary of his death. All seven musicians participating in this recording are top Polish Jazz musicians and the ensemble could have been easily called Polish Jazz All Stars. They are: trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist (Henryk´s son), saxophonists Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianists Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and Wojciech MajewskiFind albums by this artist (Henryk´s son), bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded partly live in a club and partly at the legendary Studio Tokarnia, with a stunning sound quality. The ensemble performs ten tunes, six of which are original compositions (four by Henryk Majewski and two by Robert Majewski) and the remaining four are standards.
The music is, as expected, well within the Jazz mainstream, mostly Bebop oriented, with no surprises but excellently performed from start to finish. Many fabulous solos, most of which feature Robert Majewski, ornament the album and the overall atmosphere of great time was had by all seems to be the essence.
For listeners unaware of Polish Jazz history this album symbolizes the process of growing up by the Polish Jazz scene, proving that European Jazz musicians can play (and swing!) as well as their counterparts across the pond, and the inferiority complex of past generations is completely baseless today.
So both as a great mainstream Jazz album and a document of Polish Jazz history, this beautifully packaged and lovingly executed package is absolutely worth having! As someone who knew Henryk Majewski I can only salute with a tear in the corner of my eye, in memoriam!
| | Updated: 25/03/2017Posted: 22/09/2016 | CD 1 Digibook Recommend To A Friend |
  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ UNIT (POLISH JAZZ VOL. 35)
WARNER MUSIC POLAND 190296509773 (Barcode: 190296509773) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2022
This is a reissue / remaster of the debut album as a leader by the Polish Jazz pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded in a duo setting with drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and presents ten tracks, eight of which are original compositions by Makowicz, one is co-composed with Bartkowski and one is a standard.
At the time the album was recorded both Makowicz and Bartkowski were members of the group led by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, which also included Urbaniak’s wife, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist. Makowicz and Dudziak recorded, just four months before this album was recorded, the legendary duo album “Newborn LightFind albums with this title”, which was later also released in the US by ColumbiaFind albums on this label, paving Makowicz career across the pond, where he moved in 1977, first to NY and later to Toronto. Makowicz is the only Polish Jazz musician, who managed to establish a significant career in the US, although many others tried to do so over the years.
Makowicz was always deeply rooted in the American Jazz tradition and his music stayed mostly within the mainstream idiom, emphasizing the melodic approach. His stint with Urbaniak was, in retrospect, the most adventurous period of his career. A piano / drums duo was quite an innovative and daring idea at the time, and remains a rare bird to this very days, with just a few recordings capturing such a cooperation. There is no doubt that in this case the stars were smiling upon these two musicians, and the music they recorded still sounds innovative and interesting, despite the five decades that passed since. With Bartkowski celebrating his 80th Birthday just a couple of days ago and both of them still alive and playing music, this reissue is a nice reminder of their early work.
Overall, as all the albums in the Polish Jazz series, this is an important document of the development of the genre against all odds. A great example of the “Art of the Duo” idiom and definitely an album worthy of honorable position in every serious Jazz collection, certainly a must for Polish Jazz enthusiasts.
Side Note
The iconic "Polish Jazz" series of recordings, originally released between 1965 and 1989 by the Polish state owned record company Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label, which used the MuzaFind albums on this label label as its moniker, consists of seventy six LP albums. It presents the history of Polish Jazz recordings during that period, which includes some of the most important Polish / European modern Jazz milestones and reflects the extraordinary development of Jazz music behind the Iron Curtain. It is one of the most important historic documents of Polish Music and of course Polish Culture in general.
The series had an eminent logo designed by Roslaw Szaybo and the albums were numbered sequentially from Vol.1 to Vol.76 accordingly. The album's artwork was wonderfully stylish and modernist, featuring the brilliant photographs and characteristic design by the legendary Polish Artist Marek Karewicz.
Stylistically the series presented all Jazz genres, from Traditional Jazz to Avant-Garde / Free Jazz, which was extraordinarily liberal considering the cultural censorship imposed by the Socialist Regime. It suffered from some inconsistency, as far as the musical quality and aesthetics were concerned, as well as the internal "politics" of the Polish Jazz scene at the time, but in retrospect it achieved a spectacular overall result, unparalleled as far as consistently documenting a national Jazz scene is concerned.
After the Polskie Nagrania catalogue was bought by Warner Music PolandFind albums on this label, the new owner started a reissue process of the Polish Jazz series, carefully remastered, repackaged and including extensive liner notes, which keeps the artwork as close to the original design as possible. So far forty four volumes of the original series were reissued.
In 2016 Warner Music Poland decided to continue the original series by releasing new contemporary Polish Jazz recordings under the same format and even to continue the sequential numbering starting with Vol.77 – a decision I personally consider almost sacrilegious. Some things are simply untouchable, and the "Polish Jazz" series is surely one of those things. If Warner Music Poland wants to produce Jazz albums, which is always more than welcome, they could have started a new series, under a new title, rather than exploiting the reputation of the historic series.
As a result, some artist whose albums are released as part of the new series might be led to expect instant gratification, fame and stardom, just for being an artificial part of a prestigious past, which of course is as bogus as it is sad.
| | Updated: 23/04/2023Posted: 21/04/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ LIVE AT KOSMOS, BERLIN
ITM 920007 (Barcode: 4250079750061) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2008
This is an iconic recording by the Polish Jazz quartet led by saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, with German pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. Recorded live on November 30, 1965 at the East Berlin Kosmos cinema, this is a quintessential piece of Polish and European modern Jazz history. Of the eight compositions present on this album, seven are by Namyslowski and one is by Kuhn.
In order to fully comprehend the meaning of the music captured here, one must in fact look at (and hear) three separate recordings by the Zbigniew Namyslowski quartet spanning a mere one and a half year period, which fully present the history of the Polish Jazz in the making. Starting with the album "LolaFind albums with this title", recorded in August 1964 in London, which was the first Jazz album recorded and released beyond the Iron Curtain by an East European artists, followed by this album from late 1965 and finally by the album "Zbigniew Namyslowski QuartetFind albums with this title" recorded in January 1966, which was Namyslowski´s first recording released as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" Series.
In the liner notes accompanying this album German critic / historian Bert NoglikFind albums by this artist describes the historic background and the enormous significance of the modern Polish Jazz, which developed independently, almost isolated from the sources of information and influences, reliant only on sporadic radio broadcasts, few LPs trickling illegally and played till they were flat and ever rarer visits abroad. The fact that the Polish Jazz scene was so incredibly vibrant, inventive and beyond all revolutionary is one of the greatest miracles, which escape any attempt of logical or sociological explanation. But the fact remains that Namyslowski and many other Polish Jazz musicians spontaneously re-invented modern Jazz by daring to go where nobody ventured before.
The presence of the German pianist / composer Joachim Kuhn is another fabulous bonus. Kuhn would of course become one of the great leaders of the German Jazz scene in the years to come, but first he drifted where the great East European Jazz revolution was happening, living in 1964 in Czechoslovakia and playing with the legendary SHQFind albums by this artist led by Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist and then moved to Poland, where he lived in 1965 and met Namyslowski, only to be invited to sit in the piano chair of his quartet. The following year Kuhn, like many other fellow East German musicians, would move over to the West and develop a fabulous musical career of his own.
The music is, of course, absolutely brilliant and the live setting allows for a considerably less constrained treatment of the themes, allowing for truly expanded improvisations, one of which goes beyond the half hour mark, something which was completely unthinkable earlier on. Again, when examining the three a.m. albums, it is interesting to see how the same compositions developed, which of them survived and which were dropped and most interestingly noting Namyslowski´s fascination with odd meters, which would become his trademark.
Drummer Bartkowski, who is the only musician present on all the three a.m. recordings alongside Namyslowski, is an outstanding example of how these young musicians developed rapidly, almost overnight. His contribution is an integral part of the music. Bassist Kozlowski, who plays on this album, was also present on the studio album recorded a few months later. His performance is also absolutely top notch.
Surprisingly enough, the sound quality is very decent compared to other archival recordings of that period, which enhances the overall experience of listening to these fabulous recordings. In all honesty there have been very few other archival Polish Jazz discoveries, if any at all, which are comparable to this monumental document. The fact that this music was buried for over forty years is a crime, but now that it finally sees the light of day, all serious music connoisseurs should be absolutely delighted. Such gems are as rare as the Koh-i-Noor and should be treated accordingly. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 18/07/2020Posted: | CD 2 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ LOLA
GOWI 30 (Barcode: 786497164622) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 1996
This sensational album was the first Jazz recording made behind the Iron Curtain ever to be released in Western Europe. Considering all this happened in 1964 (with the Cold War raging between the West and the East) it was a truly momentous occasion. Saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, aged 25 at the time, as well as the other members of his quartet: pianist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tadeusz WojcikFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist (all three aged 21) were representatives of the first generation of post-WWII Polish Jazz, which was developing with at a feverish paste in spite of the serious limitations of personal and artistic freedom prevailing in their country. Against all adds Polish Jazz was rapidly becoming a force, which could not be ignored, creating some of the most interesting and revolutionary music ever. Led by the great pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, the Godfather of modern Polish Jazz, the scene exploded with talent and extraordinary inventiveness, which is splendidly documented by this album, among others. Just a year after this album was recorded Namyslowski would record with Komeda, his Mentor, as a member of his quintet the album "AstigmaticFind albums with this title", probably the most important Eastern European Jazz album ever made. But back to this wonderful recording; Namyslowski composed five of the eight pieces on this album, Gulgowski composed two others and one is a standard. His compositions are brilliant in every respect, superbly melodic and often incorporating folkloristic motifs, which was quite prophetic at the time. The level of musicianship is simply stunning and highly inspired, with the overall atmosphere reminiscent of John Coltrane albums, which is hardly surprising considering he was of course Namyslowski´s biggest influence. Listening to this album it´s almost impossible to believe that it was made almost 50 years ago – this music is completely resistant to time. I still remember listening to it, being just 13 years of age, and I´m still deeply moved every time I hear it again. A masterpiece in every respect and an essential piece of music, forever!
Side Note: This album was originally released in UK on the Decca label and went quickly out of print. Over the years it became an extremely rare and sought after collectors´ item, especially in Poland. This CD edition is therefore a blessing!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.36
POLSKIE RADIO 2422-2423 (Barcode: 5907812247720) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 - 1995 Released: 2023
This is the thirty-sixth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings of that period. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The music on this album presents radio recordings of live performances by one of Godfathers of Polish Jazz, saxophonist / composer / bandleader Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, who sadly departed recently (February 2022), paying tribute to his artistry. Namyslowski was active on the scene since the late 1950s and his music embraced diverse environments, playing Jazz in all its forms and idioms, between Traditional Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion. The 2CD album presents nineteen tracks recorded between 1974 and 1995 which are a wonderful collection spanning his various activities. Namyslowski composed all but one of these tracks.
The first four tracks on CD1, recorded in 1974, feature a quintet with saxophonist / flautist Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist.
The next four tracks on CD1, recorded in 1975, feature a sextet with saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, Karolak, Jarzebski, drummer Kazimierz JonkiszFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist.
The first four tracks on CD2, recorded in 1992, feature a quartet with pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist.
The last seven tracks on CD2, recorded in 1995, feature a quintet with the same lineup as the quartet above, with the addition of trumpeter Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist.
The fact that five of the musicians playing on this album (Namyslowski, Muniak, Karolak, Szukalski and Wegehaupt) are no longer with us is a sad reminder of the phenomenon of the first generation of the Polish Jazz scene disappearing.
The series, which was brought back to life after three years of absence, offers an upgraded packaging, which finally offers bi-lingual liner notes, fitting the importance of this music. The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. Overall this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan should consider as a must.
| | Updated: 25/03/2023Posted: 25/03/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NIEMEN ~ ENIGMATIC
MUZA 356 ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
4th album from 1969. After 3 enormously successful albums with his group (Akwarele), Niemen decided to disband the group and start a new venture. He turned to his buddies in the Polish Jazz circles and soon recruited a stellar cast including the cream of the Polish Jazz players, such as Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist (drums), Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist (sax) and even Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist (sax & flute). Strangely enough the resulting album is not a fusion album but a fully developed Prog album of rare beauty, complexity and awe-inspiring power. This time Niemen uses only poetry as his texts and each of the 4 long suites is designed to complement the lyrics perfectly. For non-Polish speaking public the lyrical part is sadly lost, but even so this is some of the most powerful Prog music ever recorded.
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NIEMEN ~ ON STAGE 1970 / 1972
GREEN TREE 170 (Barcode: 4015689001701) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1970 - 1972 Released: 2018
This is an archival album, which presents live recordings by the greatest Polish Rock / Fusion musician of all times, vocalist / keyboardist / songwriter Czeslaw NiemenFind albums by this artist. Two of the tracks were recorded during the 1970 Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw and three other at the 1972 National Festival of Polish Song in Opole. Niemen was at the time at the absolute peak of his artistic creativity as well as at the top of his immense popularity. Four of the tracks time at about ten minutes and one at almost twenty minutes, and all offer extended instrumental improvisations by some of the best Polish Rock and Jazz musicians active at the time.
The 1970 tracks feature organist Jacek MikulaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Tomasz JaskiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz ZielinskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist as well as a vocal trio and an ensemble comprising of top Polish Jazz musicians: saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, violinists Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist.
The 1972 tracks feature the core of what was to become the most famous Polish Fusion band SBBFind albums by this artist: bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarists Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist and two great Polish Avant-Garde Jazz musicians: bassist Helmut NadolskiFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist.
The music is absolutely stunning, as expected, and even the dubious sound quality of these recordings is not able to spoil the unadulterated pleasure this music is still able to generate almost fifty years after it was initially performed. Niemen was always light years ahead of his contemporaries on both sides of the Iron Curtain, and the fact that he remains still relatively anonymous beyond Eastern Europe, despite his revolutionary contributions and pioneering spirit, is a crying shame.
It is a great pity that the entire legacy of Niemen´s recordings made outside of Poland and many of his live recordings remain unreleased and are available only unofficially, like all the Green TreeFind albums on this label titles. His third Box Set, which was to include all these treasures, remains sadly an unfulfilled dream.
For all Polish Rock / Fusion enthusiasts as well as for the numerous Niemen fans this is an essential piece of his discography, which is definitely worth having, despite its technical flaws.
| | Updated: 07/09/2019Posted: 07/09/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | NOVI ~ FIVE, FOUR, THREE
GAD 025 (Barcode: 5901549197310) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of the fifth album by the Polish Jazz vocal ensemble NOVIFind albums by this artist, recorded after the ensemble´s founder / leader / primary composer / arranger Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist left Poland for the greener pastures of the Big Apple, following a whole wave of his compatriots, like Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and others. Kawka´s departure seemed to have little impact on the remaining three members of the ensemble: Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist, Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. They immediately embarked upon the recording of this album, which as usual included original material, composed by Parzynski (seven of the nine compositions on this album) and Mych (the other two compositions). Three of the compositions included also lyrics (in English).
The ensemble was accompanied by an instrumental combo, which featured top Polish Jazz musicians: keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, and the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist conducted by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. In addition to the original album, this remastered edition includes four bonus tracks, two of which feature the vocalist Tomasz OchalskiFind albums by this artist, who expanded the ensemble to the original quartet lineup for a brief period. The original album was released only three years after it was recorded, which was an example of how political bureaucracy dictated the fate of musicians behind the Iron Curtain.
Musically this album was a continuation of the fantastic work they did on the previous releases, but the stress of loosing their leader and the confusion that followed is pretty obvious. The selection of material and inclusion of songs is obviously a step towards commercialism, but the album still presents several top-notch numbers, beautifully and skillfully executed, which stand up to par with their earlier work. But overall the glory days of NOVI were over and although they would record a couple of additional albums, they were moving further away from the revolutionary and innovative vocal achievements of their early days.
Considering the fact that this music has been unavailable for such a long time this is definitely another project by GADFind albums on this label Records, which deserves to be praised. NOVI fans will find this an indispensable part of their collection and hopefully we will get a complete set of NOVI reissues sometime in the future.
| | Updated: 13/10/2016Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NOVI ~ TORPEDO (POLISH JAZZ VOL.87 DELUXE)
MUZA 1087 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2006
This is a reissue of the second album by the seminal vocal group NOVIFind albums by this artist, one of the most acclaimed Polish Jazz acts in the 1960s and 1970s, and one of the most influential vocal ensembles of all times. Led by the charismatic vocalist / composer / arranger Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist, the group also included the sensational female vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and two more male vocalists / composers / arrangers: Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. Following the formula set by their sensational debut album, they perform original music composed and arranged by Kawka, Mych and Parzynski (except for one Classical piece).
The vocal quartet is accompanied by a superb instrumental team, which includes some of the best Polish Jazz musicians at the time, including pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and many others, as well as the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. The rich instrumental arrangements were one of the differences between NOVI and the earlier European Jazz vocal ensembles like Les Double SixFind albums by this artist or The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist.
This album, as all early recordings by NOVI, is absolutely immune to the tides of time and sounds today as magnificent as it was at the time of its recording. NOVI definitely left a mark on the Jazz vocal idiom, setting an incredibly high standard, which sadly was later on followed by only very few similar ensembles.
Side Note: This is one of those Polish Jazz albums, released by the Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label label, which should have been released as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series at the time, but somehow never made it. From the historic perspective it definitely deserved to be a part of that series and this was partially corrected by this edition, as it is one of the items in the expanded "Polish Jazz Deluxe" series of reissues.
| | Updated: 13/10/2016Posted: 13/10/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA ~ S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA
POLJAZZ / ANEX 312 (Barcode: 5907513047674) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1975 Released: 2009
The material presented on this album originates from two separate LPs released by the PoljazzFind albums on this label label, each contributing one side of the original LP. The logic behind it is that the original Poljazz releases often included two sides of completely unrelated material, artificially combined for a variety of reasons, mostly economic. These two sides of two separate LPs are connected by the central personality behind the music, the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist.
Wroblewski was the founder and leader of the band S.P.P.T. ChalturnikFind albums by this artist, which was formed in order to present Jazz with a humorous and tongue in cheek attitude, featuring well known standards as well as original material by the leader. The band included the absolute crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz scene: saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The wonderful arrangements and whimsy performances are all brilliant, especially in view of the fact that they show that Jazz doesn´t have to be treated always so seriously.
Wroblewski was also the director of the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist during the years 1968-1978, which was one of the most important incubators and places of refuge for the young Polish Jazz musicians under the Socialist regime, providing them with a steady income. The orchestra performs a very ambitious piece of music composed by the young pianist Jan JarczykFind albums by this artist called "A Double Concerto For Five Soloists And Orchestra", which features as soloists top Polish Jazz players of the time: violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tomasz Szukalski and Janusz Muniak and trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Legendary American drummer Stu MartinFind albums by this artist also participates in the recording. The music is a very interesting example of early Orchestral Jazz works, which combine contemporary Classical techniques with Free Jazz improvisation.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANISLAW SOJKA ~ BLUBLULA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.63)
MUZA 1063 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2005
This is the 2nd album by the excellent Polish Jazz vocalist Stanislaw SojkaFind albums by this artist, who dominated the male vocal spot on the local scene since the early 1980s and is still very much active today. Always in the gray area between Jazz, Gospel, Blues, Rhythm And Blues and even Pop, Sojka is a first rate interpreter and lately also composer. His live performances are legendary and his versatility is awe inspiring. This early album finds him in a superb company of top Polish Jazz players: pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and veteran drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, a fantastic trio by any standard. He performs eight Jazz standards, but performed with flare and outstanding originality, using scat singing, playing with words and other improvisational techniques. This is a breathtaking performance, from start to finish, which every Jazz fan should be exposed to at some point. An absolute must!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STANKO – MAKOWICZ UNIT ~ STANKO – MAKOWICZ UNIT FEATURING CZESLAW BARTKOWSKI
B.FREE 6097 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the little known album by the Polish Jazz ensemble Stanko – Makowicz UnitFind albums by this artist, released originally by a small independent German label JGFind albums on this label Records. It is one of the two albums this ensemble recorded, the other one being the eponymous album released by the legendary Polish label PoljazzFind albums on this label, which to this day was not reissued on CD. On this album the ensemble is a trio with Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist on electric piano and Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist on drums, whereas the Poljazz album was recorded by a quartet with Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist on bass. Both albums have a completely different set of tunes on them. On this album the ensemble performs seven tunes, two each by Stanko and Makowicz, one credited to all three members of the ensemble and the remaining two being standards one each by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. The album´s artwork does not specify the date or place of the recording, except for stating that it was recorded in 1975, same as the Poljazz album. Since there is no applause one can assume it is a studio recording. Chronologically this album was recorded shortly before Stanko recorded his first album for ECMFind albums on this label ("BalladynaFind albums with this title" recorded December 1975), which was the jumpstart of his international career.
The music is typical of Stanko´s mid 1970s period, which marked his beautiful amalgamation of melody and Free Jazz excursions, dominated by his "dirty" hoarse sound, which was his trademark for many years. Makowicz, who was one of the leading pianists on the Polish scene at the time, before he left for the US, was an ideal partner for Stanko in this particular setup, using the electric piano he embraced while being a member of the Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist´s Fusion groups. Bartkowski, also a leading figure on the Polish scene, was a Master drummer and felt perfectly comfortable in any stylistic setting, supports the duo amicably.
Although the recording quality and the overall sound of this album is not as good as one might have hoped for, it is definitely perfectly acceptable, in contrast to what some "critics" wrote about this album over time. The same, or even more strongly, is valid as far as the musical contents and the playing are concerned, which are absolutely superb. This is one of the most intimate Stanko recordings ever, and his trumpet playing is leading the music boldly and authoritatively.
In retrospect this is a tremendous piece of history of the Polish / European Jazz and of course of Stanko´s contribution to the genre, as the leading Free Jazz trumpeter of the period. For Polish Jazz connoisseurs and Stanko followers this album is an absolute must have of course.
| | Updated: 28/04/2018Posted: 28/04/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ A I J
POLONIA 103 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 Released: 1997
This magnificent album by Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist includes the rest of the music recorded at the same session, which produced the superb "Music 81Find albums with this title" album. As with all great and prophetic Jazz Masters, Stanko´s music was evolving constantly and by the time this session was recorded in 1982, he was ready to leave behind the Avant-Garde / Free Jazz / experimental music, which dominated his first period (late 1960s to late 1970s) and gradually move forward towards new things, which would include mostly Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz-Electronic experiments, which of course were all as advanced and adventurous as anything else he made earlier.
That second period, which lasted roughly the whole decade of the 1980s, is well documented by the albums released during that time, each and every one of them indisputably a masterpiece in retrospect. This interim session between Stanko´s first and second period is especially interesting, as in many respects it both summarizes the first period and clearly leads the way towards the next. The music is surprisingly "straight-forward" (if such description is at all possible in connection with Stanko´s music) and conventional. Performed by a classic quartet with pianist Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Vitold RekFind albums by this artist and the fabulous drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, it moves stylistically somewhere between John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s early 1960´s quartet and Miles DavisFind albums by this artist second quintet, mixing clear melody lines with complex improvisations. The performances are absolutely stellar, with Stanko´s trumpet shredding the air, beautiful and extremely sensitive piano work a la McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, strong and steady bass and virtuosic drumming, which not only drives the music forward but also adds endless flamboyant ornamentations.
Of course in retrospect we know now that Stanko was to return to a similar format a decade and so later with his superb quartet, but at the time this music was completely unprecedented on the Polish scene. There are very few Jazz albums worldwide, which come close to the perfection and vision of the music herein, therefore this is definitely an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur, Polish Jazz collector and anybody with a pair of open ears. Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MUSIC 81 (POLISH JAZZ VOL.69)
MUZA 969 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2004
Probably the most famous Polish musician worldwide, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, acheived a legendary status as a virtuoso trumpet player of the same maginutude as Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. An original member of the legendary Kszysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist Quintet and a founding father of Polish Jazz, Stanko never allowed himself to become stagnant and his ever evolving musical style has been at the very front of modern jazz since 4 decades. This album presents him in the best form, playing with young musicians (except drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist - another veteran) and as usual playing his wonderful compositions, which range from minimalistic fiffs to beautifully lyrical melodies. A true gem!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | STARONIEWICZ / JAGODZINSKI / RAJSKI ~ TRANQUILLO
ALLEGRO 025 (Barcode: 5901157049254) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
Lush saxophone, gently strumming piano and a string orchestra sound more like a recipe for a soundtrack to a third-rate erotic movie (i.e. porn flick) than a serious musical venture. The iniquitous "Sax and Strings" trap made many of the best Jazz saxophone players sound like muzak junkies, leaving only a few of them, who managed to create some superb music out of this unforgiving format. I was prepared for the worse when I placed this album into the CD player and hesitantly pushed the Play button. Lo and behold, the music turned out to be simply delightful… what a relief.
Veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Wojciech StaroniewiczFind albums by this artist combines forces with pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and his trio, which also includes bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and Master veteran drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The resulting quartet is accompanied by the Polish Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Sopot, conducted by Wojciech RajskiFind albums by this artist. The album consists of eleven compositions, two of which are originals by Staroniewicz and the rest are standards (four of those are by Antonio Carlos JobimFind albums by this artist). The orchestral arrangements of seven of the tracks were written by another veteran Polish Jazz hero Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, three are by Jagodzinski and the remaining one by Artur JurekFind albums by this artist.
The music is presented on three overlaying platforms: the saxophone, the piano trio and the orchestra; each of those with its separate content, and merging with the other two to create the overall effect and compliment each other. Staroniewicz is a superb sax player and his wonderful tone and flow are absolutely perfect for this music. He plays the melodies, but also improvises constantly, although staying well within the harmonic boundaries. Jagodzinski and his trio are also one of the finest Polish Jazz ensembles, and although their role on this album is mostly limited to provide the Jazzy atmospheric background and rhythmic backbone, the trio´s leader plays several beautiful lyrical solos and the rhythm section swings like there´s no tomorrow.
The strings are the biggest surprise of them all; the arrangements are quite unusual and often not what the listen might expect at all – intelligent, challenging and with a life of their own. Combined with the quartet playing on top they enhance the overall result enormously and one must admit they do it most pleasantly.
Yes, this is the gentle side of Jazz. It is sweet and romantic and beautiful, but it is also clever, perfectly done and heartwarming. It manages to avoid being kitschy, which is so damn difficult under these circumstances. OK I admit, I´m a dead romantic at heart and I love this stuff, exactly for what it is – bite me ;) The album´s artwork is also beautiful, one of the few cases when the artwork fits the album´s contents perfectly. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ SZUKALSKI ~ TINA KAMILA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.83 DELUXE)
MUZA 1083 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2005
This wonderful album is the debut recording as a leader by Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, one of the veterans of the local scene. Although Szukalski has been active on the scene for many years and participated in many recordings, the opportunity to make an album under his own name came only relatively late in his career path. This album is quite a surprise in many respects, as it presents Szukalski playing Jazz standards accompanied by the Grand Standard Orchestra led and conducted by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. His tenor sounds absolutely marvelous against the orchestra´s strings and the album is one of the most beautifully melodic Polish Jazz releases. Stylistically the album resembles similar sax and strings recordings, such as those by Ben WebsterFind albums by this artist for example, and Szukalski´s virtuosity and incredible feel easily match those of the legendary Jazz Masters. He is accompanied by a great rhythm section with pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Darek OleszkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The music comprises mostly of Jazz standards, but includes also compositions by Polish Jazz composers like Karolak, Wroblewski, Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and one tune by the Szukalski himself. In retrospect this album lost nothing of its power and intrinsic beauty, and any Jazz lover in the world should be able to enjoy it wholeheartedly. Brilliant stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ ATMA
UBX 1022 (Barcode: 884502405217) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second US album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, released originally on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label in 1974. It was recorded by the same group of Polish musicians, who played with Urbaniak since several years: his wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. American percussionist Ray MantillaFind albums by this artist also took part in the recording. The album presents ten tracks, all composed by Urbaniak, including the three parts suite that gave the album its title.
The music continues the development that Urbaniak presented on his recordings since the early 1970s, creating a unique Fusion of Jazz and Ethnic elements, mostly sourced from Polish Folklore. The distinctive instrumentation and the use of the idiosyncratic explosive vocals by Dudziak resulted in one of the most advanced Fusion albums of all times, which remains completely original and groundbreaking to this very day.
Although Urbaniak authored all the music there is no doubt that Dudziak added a crucial element to the final result. Her vocal pyrotechnics are absolutely stunning and without those the music would have never reached the expressive power it offers. Her solo vocals / electronics track reveals her imaginative abilities, which were fully exposed on her solo album "Newborn LightFind albums with this title" recorded in 1972 and later also released in US on Columbia.
There is no doubt that this music was light years ahead of its time, and being deeply based in European Jazz experimentation, which at the time of its release was almost completely misunderstood in the US, resulted in commercial failure on the US market, despite its superb musical achievement. In retrospect this album was undoubtedly the absolute peak of Urbaniak´s career, especially as a composer and pioneer of innovative music exploration. All three of the Urbaniak´s Columbia albums ("FusionFind albums with this title", "AtmaFind albums with this title" and "Fusion IIIFind albums with this title") can be combined as one of the most artistically successful album triptychs in Jazz / Fusion history.
This is an absolute must to all Fusion fans the world over, now more than ever, as the genre proved to run out of steam decades ago and absolutely nothing comes even close to the quality and the electrifying powers of the music included here. Grab it as long as you can get hold of a copy! Beyond essential!
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: 08/09/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ FUSION
COLUMBIA 5099706552529 (Barcode: 5099706552529) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 1998
This is a reissue of the first US album by Polish Jazz violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, released originally on the ColumbiaFind albums on this label label in 1974. The album was actually recorded in Germany in June of 1973 and released that year by CBSFind albums on this label on the European market under the title "Super ConstellationFind albums with this title", since the group was called Michal Urbaniak ConstellationFind albums by this artist. The US release added one track recorded in the US by Urbaniak with American musicians, which was used as the title track of that edition. The Constellation was a quintet which included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, two keyboardists: Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, all top Polish Jazz musicians at the time. Constellation recorded also a live album in May of 1973, called "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which was released in Poland as Vol. 36 of the legendary Polish Jazz series, and included mostly live versions of the same material that is included on this album. The album presents seven original compositions, six by Urbaniak and one by Karolak.
The album is one of the most unique Fusion albums of all time, presenting a sensational amalgam of Fusion and Polish Folklore, pioneering the Jazz-World Fusion idiom light years ahead of anybody else. Dudziak´s vocalese pyrotechnics were completely innovative at the time and the double keyboards lineup, which allowed usage of early electronic wizardry, topped with Urbaniak´s idiosyncratic violin sound created a tapestry of sound unmatched by any other group on both sides of the pond.
The fact that Columbia released the album was truly surprising, as this music is completely European at its very core, which usually was way above the heads of American music industry executives. It took a Jewish Columbia executive Sol RabinowitzFind albums by this artist and his visionary openness to give Urbaniak a chance on the US scene, which sadly did not last for very long. Urbaniak recorded two more albums for Columbia: "AtmaFind albums with this title" (1974) and "Fusion IIIFind albums with this title" (1975) before the label gave him the boot.
In retrospect this album remains to this very day as one of the best Fusion albums ever recorded and is an essential chapter in Fusion history. It is also one of the best Polish Jazz albums of all time. Sadly Urbaniak did not manage to repeat the Artistic peak he reached on the Columbia recordings and although he is still active today, his triumphant days are long gone.
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: 30/07/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ INACTIN
UBX 1020 (Barcode: 888174593128) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second album recorded for the small German label SpiegeleiFind albums on this label by the ensemble headed by Polish Jazz saxophonist / violinist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. The ensemble included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Roman DylagFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and Yugoslav percussionist Branislav KovacevFind albums by this artist. The album includes seven tracks, all composed by Urbaniak.
This album has several similarities to the live album Urbaniak and his ensemble recorded in 1973 in Poland, released as part of the legendary Polish Jazz series (Vol. 36) and entitled "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which in retrospect was one of Polish Jazz most significant and pivotal recordings and a giant milestone towards the discovery of Jazz-Rock Fusion on the local scene. Those two albums share several of the compositions and almost identical core lineup and most importantly the unique stylistic approach, which mixed Jazz, Rock, Electronics and Free Jazz in a way never previously attempted.
The Spiegelei contact, which also produced the album "Paratyphus BFind albums with this title" recorded a year earlier with the same lineup except for Pawel JarzebskFind albums by this artisti on bass, happened as a result of the success Urbaniak achieved in Europe touring there extensively in the early 1970s, which culminated with his appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1971 and winning there a first prize as instrumentalist, at the time still playing the saxophone. The switch to violin, which was Urbaniak´s original instrument, changed his career dramatically and marked the new period in his career. The entire period marks a turbulent time for Urbaniak and Dudziak, with their dramatic emigration to USA soon after.
The music Urbaniak´s group created was definitely one of the most innovative and adventurous experiments done at the time, surely by any musicians originating from behind the Iron Curtain. The freedom of expression, which originated in the Free Jazz, mixed with the use of electric instruments and electronic voice enhancements, emerged as some of the most exciting sounds then, and to same extent even today, almost four decades later. Urbaniak used Polish folk motifs and uneven meters to make things even more exciting and Dudziak´s visionary usage of the human voice was eons ahead of its time.
In retrospect the two Spiegelei albums and the three albums Urbaniak recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the USA during the years immediately after his arrival there remain to this very day as his strongest statements, with the body of work created by him and his groups in the early 1970s being unsurpassed.
The sonic quality of this album is rather Lo-Fi in today´s standards and it’s a pity that a proper remastering effort was not attempted. The album´s liner notes are pretty sketchy and such significant reissue surely deserves much better. Nevertheless this is an iconic piece of music and as such deserves to be listened to today, after being unavailable for a scandalously long period of time.
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK ~ SOUND PIECES
MOOSICUS 1223 (Barcode: 885513122322) ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 - 1973 Released: 2023
This is an expanded 3CD reissue / remaster of the two albums, “Paratyphus BFind albums with this title” and “InactinFind albums with this title”, recorded for the small German label SpiegeleiFind albums on this label by the ensemble headed by Polish Jazz saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. The ensemble included also Urbaniak´s wife at the time, vocalist Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, bassists Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist (on the 1st album) and Roman DylagFind albums by this artist (on the 2nd album), drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and Yugoslav percussionist Branislav KovacevFind albums by this artist. The 1st album included five tracks, four by Urbaniak and one by Makowicz, and the 2nd album included seven tracks, all composed by Urbaniak. Both albums are now combined as the twelve tracks of CD1.
CD2 and CD3 of this album present three tracks each, recorded live by Radio Bremen during a club performance on January 21, 1972, a few months before the two studio albums were recorded, and later released in 1973. The material covers the same material that was later recorded in the studio. The lineup playing live is the same as on “Paratyphus B”, except for Kovacev, who is not present.
“Inactin” has several similarities to the live album Urbaniak and his ensemble recorded in 1973 in Poland, released as part of the legendary Polish Jazz series (Vol. 36) and entitled "In ConcertFind albums with this title", which in retrospect was one of Polish Jazz most significant and pivotal recordings and a giant milestone towards the discovery of Jazz-Rock Fusion on the local scene. Those two albums share several of the compositions and almost identical core lineup and most importantly the unique stylistic approach, which mixed Jazz, Rock, Electronics and Free Jazz in a way never previously attempted.
The Spiegelei contact, which produced the two albums, happened as a result of the success Urbaniak achieved in Europe touring there extensively in the early 1970s, which culminated with his appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1971 and winning there a first prize as instrumentalist, at the time still playing the saxophone. The switch to violin, which was Urbaniak´s original instrument, changed his career dramatically and marked the new period in his career. The entire period marks a turbulent time for Urbaniak and Dudziak, with their dramatic emigration to USA soon after.
The music Urbaniak´s group created was definitely one of the most innovative and adventurous experiments done at the time, surely by any musicians originating from behind the Iron Curtain. The freedom of expression, which originated in the Free Jazz, mixed with the use of electric instruments and electronic voice enhancements, emerged as some of the most exciting sounds then, and to same extent even today, almost five decades later. Urbaniak used Polish folk motifs and uneven meters to make things even more exciting and Dudziak´s visionary usage of the human voice was eons ahead of its time. In retrospect her performances on this album remain unmatched to this very day, again five decades later.
In retrospect the two Spiegelei albums and the three albums Urbaniak recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label in the USA during the years immediately after his arrival there remain to this very day as his strongest statements, with the body of work created by him and his groups in the early 1970s being unsurpassed.
The album´s liner notes are pretty sketchy and such significant reissue surely deserves much better. Nevertheless, this is an iconic piece of music and as such deserves to be listened to today, after being unavailable for a scandalously long period of time.
Overall, this album is a dramatic statement in Jazz history, serving as a beacon to the fact that by the time it was recorded, Jazz development moved from America to Europe, never to return again. This music is so much advanced over anything happening beyond the pond, already at that time, and the fact that it originates from Easter Europe, from behind the Iron Curtain, proves that it has been finally liberated from American supremacy, or even perhaps enslavement. Any Jazz lover, who is not aware of this music, and sadly a vast majority is in that position, has very little understanding as what Jazz Music is all about.
| | Updated: 16/02/2024Posted: 16/02/2024 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK / CONSTELLATION ~ IN CONCERT (POLISH JAZZ VOL.36)
MUZA 1036 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2005
This is a reissue of the second album on the legendary "Polish Jazz" series by the Polish saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. A veteran Polish Jazz musician, Urbaniak was a member of the legendary ensembles led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, where he played the saxophone, but by the early 1970 he switched to the violin and plunged into Jazz-Rock Fusion, rapidly becoming one of the most inventive and creative pioneers of the genre.
This album and the albums recorded in Germany and later in the USA are absolute Fusion milestones, but also stand out as completely unique in their approach to the genre. Urbaniak combined the marvelous abilities of his wife Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and her extraordinary and experimental vocalese technique with his common usage of Polish Folklore motifs, creating a superb and completely unparalleled Fusion music.
This live recording captures his baseless / double keyboard ensemble, which also includes organist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Urbaniak, is simply out of this world, brilliant and fresh, absolutely resistant to the tides of time and fashion. In retrospect one can only regret that Fusion followed mostly the direction of flashy virtuosic display of neck-breaking guitar races rather than the direction proposed by Urbaniak´s Fusion, but it´s unfortunately too late now. At least we can savor this music, 40 years after it was recorded, well aged and beautifully eternal. A must!
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL URBANIAK / CONSTELLATION ~ IN CONCERT (POLISH JAZZ VOL.36)
POWER BROS 00119 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 1993
This is a reissue of the second album on the legendary "Polish Jazz" series by the Polish saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. A veteran Polish Jazz musician, Urbaniak was a member of the legendary ensembles led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, where he played the saxophone, but by the early 1970 he switched to the violin and plunged into Jazz-Rock Fusion, rapidly becoming one of the most inventive and creative pioneers of the genre.
This album and the albums recorded in Germany and later in the USA are absolute Fusion milestones, but also stand out as completely unique in their approach to the genre. Urbaniak combined the marvelous abilities of his wife Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and her extraordinary and experimental vocalese technique with his common usage of Polish Folklore motifs, creating a superb and completely unparalleled Fusion music.
This live recording captures his baseless / double keyboard ensemble, which also includes organist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Urbaniak, is simply out of this world, brilliant and fresh, absolutely resistant to the tides of time and fashion. In retrospect one can only regret that Fusion followed mostly the direction of flashy virtuosic display of neck-breaking guitar races rather than the direction proposed by Urbaniak´s Fusion, but it´s unfortunately too late now. At least we can savor this music, 40 years after it was recorded, well aged and beautifully eternal. A must!
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.12
POLSKIE RADIO 1632 (Barcode: 5907812246327) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 Released: 2014
This is the twelfth installment in the new series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The material collected here presents recordings made in 1963 during the sixth Jazz Jamboree festival in Warsaw. The majority of the material, i.e. thirteen of the seventeen tracks, is performed by Dutch vocalist Rita ReysFind albums by this artist (who died a few months ago in July 2013) accompanied by a trio led by her husband pianist Pim JacobsFind albums by this artist with guitarist Wim OvergaauwFind albums by this artist and Pim´s brother bassist Ruud JacobsFind albums by this artist. In addition one instrumental track by the trio is also included. The remaining three tracks are performed by the top Polish Jazz musicians at the time: two by vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist accompanied by the Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist trio with bassist Maciej SuzinFind albums by this artist and drummer Leszek DudziakFind albums by this artist; the last track is by the Komeda quintet, with saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, bassist Maciej Suzin and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. All the tracks are Jazz standards except for the last one, which is a Komeda composition.
Reys performs a set of classic vocal material, comprising of popular songs known to all Jazz listeners. Her singing is beautifully expressive, but not virtuosic and copying mannerisms from American vocal Jazz stars. She also has a slight foreign accent, but definitely passable. The accompaniment is elegant and supportive, with Pim´s piano playing being truly exceptional. The guitar plays sadly only a few solo spots, and when not soloing it is mostly hidden in the recording balance; as a result is seems Reys is accompanied mostly by a piano / bass duo only. Overall this is a fine presentation of mainstream Jazz vocals, nothing spectacular but a nice document of the moment in time.
The Milian tracks are also rather pale, well performed and all, but again nothing special. Komeda plays some great piano phrases, which are always delightful and the rhythm section is doing its job as expected. The Komeda quintet is obviously the most interesting track herein with a typical beautiful melody line only he could weave and the quintet playing along splendidly. One may wonder why these three tracks were selected as the "filler" for this album, as both ensembles (Milian´s and Komeda´s) played full sets, which would be very interesting in their entirety.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.13
POLSKIE RADIO 1663 (Barcode: 5907812246631) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 Released: 2014
This is the thirteenth installment in the new series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The material collected here presents a second volume of recordings made in 1963 during the sixth Jazz Jamboree festival in Warsaw. It starts with two lengthy tracks, both treatments of classic Jazz standards, by the legendary American saxophonist Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist and his quartet. Prior to this recordings Griffin, like many of his Afro-American colleagues, moved to Europe, where Jazz was experiencing an explosive development and was considered an Art Form and racial discrimination was almost completely absent. The quartet includes fellow American pianist Kenny DrewFind albums by this artist, who settled in Europe a couple of years earlier, Dutch guitarist Wim OvergaauwFind albums by this artist and Dutch bassist Ruud JacobsFind albums by this artist. Followers of this series are of course aware of the fact that the eleventh volume already presents a double CD with material recorded by Griffin at the same festival with the same musicians. Personally I´d have preferred to have that release expanded into a triple CD set and have all the Griffin sessions together, but I´m not the series´ editor.
Next come three tracks by the Danish trumpeter Allan BotschinskyFind albums by this artist and his quintet with American born saxophonist Ray PittsFind albums by this artist, who moved to Denmark in 1962, pianist Atti BjoernFind albums by this artist (name most probably miss spelt), bassist Benny NielsenFind albums by this artist and American drummer Robert Joseph (real name Robert Joseph Durham or Bobby DurhamFind albums by this artist as he was known to all – Polskie Radio should have known this, especially since I already made this comment / correction on the a.m. Griffin album – please read people! The music is all original and includes two compositions by Pitts and one by Botschinsky. It is typical bee bop, well played, especially by the leader who was a first rate trumpeter, but not extraordinary in any sense.
The two tracks closing the album are the most interesting for the Polish Jazz fans and they present the Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist quartet with pianist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tadeusz WojcikFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, the same quartet that would record several months later in Britain the legendary album "LolaFind albums with this title", the first significant exposure of Polish Jazz behind the Iron Curtain. Both are original compositions by Namyslowski, the first would be the title track of the British LP and the second seems to be the only appearance of this composition on record. These are the initial steps of the first golden decade of Polish Jazz, and as such their documentation is priceless, as is the music.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.14
POLSKIE RADIO 1664 (Barcode: 5907812246648) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1963 Released: 2014
This is the fourteenth installment in the new series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The material collected here presents the third volume of recordings made in 1963 during the sixth Jazz Jamboree festival in Warsaw. In contrast to the two earlier volumes, this one presents only Polish Jazz musicians, and therefore is by far the most interesting and enlightening of the three. In many respects this album is a comprehensive review of the Polish Jazz scene at the time and presents the early days of the modern Polish Jazz at its pivotal stage of forming its own identity, as far as sound, atmosphere, character and unique stylistic aesthetics are concerned.
The album includes just six tracks, by four different ensembles, playing expanded compositions, three of which cross the fifteen minutes duration time, a clear signal of creativity and improvisational freedom typical of modern Jazz. The ensembles are: Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist (saxophone) quartet with pianist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tadeusz WojcikFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist (one track), Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist (piano) quintet with saxophonists Zbigniew Namyslowski and Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, bassist Juliusz SandeckiFind albums by this artist (here misspelled as Julian) and drummer Adam JedrzejowskiFind albums by this artist (two tracks), Alek MusialFind albums by this artist (trumpet) quintet with vibraphonist Ryszard KruzaFind albums by this artist, pianist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, bassist Wieslaw DamieckiFind albums by this artist and drummer Bogdan JopekFind albums by this artist (one track) and finally Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist (piano) quintet with trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michal Urbaniak, bassist Maciej SuzinFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw Bartkowski (two tracks). Of the six compositions three are standards and three are originals, one by Trzaskowski and two by Komeda.
Stylistically the music is quite similar, ranging from more traditionally based modern Jazz in case of the Namyslowski and Musial tracks to more advanced characteristic Polish Jazz material in case in of the music by Trzaskowski and finally most dramatically in the music by Komeda, which is already eons ahead of its time. The two Komeda tracks are the epitome of modern Polish / European Jazz, which clearly show a mature approach free of the restrictions imposed by the American Jazz tradition. These tracks are alone worth the price of the entire album, but of course the rest of the material is also quite excellent.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | Updated: 02/12/2016Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.22
POLSKIE RADIO 1874 (Barcode: 5907812248741) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 Released: 2015
This is the twenty-second installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The ten tracks collected here were recorded during the seventh Jazz Jamboree Festival, which took place between October 24 and 26 1964 in Warsaw. This is the third part of the Jazz Jamboree 1964 recordings. The music was performed by four different ensembles, which are: the Italian Flavio Ambrosetti All StarsFind albums by this artist (five tracks), led by saxophonist Flavio AmbrosettiFind albums by this artist with trumpeter Franco AmbrosettiFind albums by this artist, Swiss pianist George GruntzFind albums by this artist, Polish bassist Tadeusz WojcikFind albums by this artist and Swiss drummer Pierre FavreFind albums by this artist and three Polish Jazz ensembles, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist Quintet (one track) with trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, Polish Jazz QuartetFind albums by this artist (two tracks) led by saxophonist Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist with pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Juliusz SandeckiFind albums by this artist and drummer Andrzej DabrowskiFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist Quartet (two tracks) with pianist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Tadeusz Wojcik and drummer Czeslaw Bartkowski.
This is by far the most interesting of the three volumes of the Jazz Jamboree 1964 recordings, as it presents the modern Polish Jazz about to explode into modernism, which will shape its destiny for generations to come. Stanko, Urbaniak, Wroblewski, Bartkowski are still active on the Polish scene, fifty years latter, carrying the fire which was first sparkled around the time these recordings were made. The Ambrosetti set is also interesting, as it allows a glance at two legendary Jazz figures: Gruntz and Favre, at their early days. Most of the music performed on this album is original.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | Updated: 08/07/2020Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.26
POLSKIE RADIO 2058 (Barcode: 5907812247119) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2016
This is the twenty-sixth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The tracks presented here were recorded live in December 1965 during the eighth Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw and are the first volume of a collection of tracks from that event.
The first five tracks present the great British vocalist Annie RossFind albums by this artist, who revolutionized the vocal Jazz idiom as a member of the legendary trio Lambert, Hendricks & RossFind albums by this artist, which she left in late 1962 to start her solo career. She is accompanied by a trio consisting of Polish pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Juliusz SandeckiFind albums by this artist and Swedish drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist. All the songs are Jazz standards.
The next four tracks present the great Polish vocal ensemble NOVIFind albums by this artist in their earliest incarnation as a quintet, which includes in addition to their leader Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist also Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist, Janusz MychFind albums by this artist, Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist and Aleksander GluchFind albums by this artist, who left the ensemble before they recorded their debut album Bossa NovaFind albums with this title in 1967. NOVI modeled their vocal style on earlier vocal Jazz ensembles like Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, and their tracks appearing immediately following the Ross´s tracks is symbolic. NOVI are accompanied by pianist Adam MatyszkowiczFind albums by this artist (Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist), bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. All the tracks are vocal arrangements of Jazz standards.
The next three tracks present a quartet led by legendary Polish Jazz pianist / trombonist / composer Andrzej KurylewiczFind albums by this artist with guitarist Janusz SidorenkoFind albums by this artist, bassist Edward DylagFind albums by this artist (older brother of Roman DylagFind albums by this artist, who is mistakenly listed here) and drummer Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist. The rare appearance of Kurylewicz playing the trombone is one of the highlights of this album. They perform a couple of adaptations, one of a classical piece by Polish composer Stanislaw MoniuszkoFind albums by this artist and the other of a folk tune and finally one original composition by Kurylewicz.
The last two tracks present a quartet led by legendary Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist with pianist Wojciech Karolak, bassist Juliusz Sandecki (here misspelled as Janusz), and drummer Andrzej DabrowskiFind albums by this artist. They perform on original composition by Wroblewski and an extended version of a Miles DavisFind albums by this artist classic.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | Updated: 03/12/2016Posted: 02/12/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.30
POLSKIE RADIO 2063 (Barcode: 5907812244026) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2017
This is the thirtieth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The tracks presented here were recorded live in October 1966 during the ninth Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw and are the second volume of a collection of tracks from that event.
The first ten tracks present the legendary French vocal group The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist, led by Ward SwingleFind albums by this artist (an American in Paris) and including seven more vocalists. The vocal octet is accompanied by bassist Guy PedersenFind albums by this artist and drummer Daniel HumairFind albums by this artist. In contrast to the earlier iconic French vocal ensemble Les Double SixFind albums by this artist (which included several of the Swingle Singers members earlier on), which sung vocal versions of Jazz standards, The Swingle Singers performed mostly vocal Jazz arrangements of Classical Music pieces, by Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist, Wolfgang Amadeus MozartFind albums by this artist and others. The tracks present here are all in this particular idiom.
The next two tracks present a trio led by American organist Lou BennettFind albums by this artist, who moved to Paris in 1960. The other members of the trio are: Belgian guitarist Philip CatherineFind albums by this artist and Italian drummer Franco ManzecchiFind albums by this artist. These tracks are of interest as early examples of Catherine´s playing before he started his illustrious solo career.
The last track presents a Polish Jazz quartet led by saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, which also includes pianist Adam MatyszkowiczFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist), bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. They perform an original composition by Namyslowski, recorded on his debut Polish album by the same lineup.
The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. As usual with this series, which is very reasonably priced, I miss the presence of "in depth" liner notes / booklet, which should convey the circumstances at which this music was recorded and its importance to the development of Jazz in Poland. Nevertheless this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan will surely consider an absolute must.
| | Updated: 07/07/2017Posted: 07/07/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW WEGEHAUPT ~ SAKE
POLJAZZ / ANEX 326 (Barcode: 5907513047810) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 - 1984 Released: 2009
Polish bassist / composer Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist has been a pillar of the Polish Jazz scene for the last three decades, proving time after time his role as a versatile and virtuoso player and a steady anchor for almost all Jazz ensemble leaders in his country. His compositional skills however, although exceptional as well, are rarely documented, which is a great pity. This album, his debut recording as a leader, is the first glimpse of these splendid tunes, recorded with a superb lineup of Polish Jazz musicians, both veterans and members of his age group: saxophonists Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist and Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianist Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album features six beautiful compositions, prime examples of modern Jazz writing based in the Jazz tradition, but expanding it with the European influence, which adds many new dimensions to the music. Connoisseurs of the art of bass playing will be delighted with this recording, but every Jazz enthusiast should find it exceptionally satisfying. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI / WOJCIECH KAROLAK ~ MAINSTREAM (POLISH JAZZ VOL.40)
MUZA 1040 (Barcode: 5907783420405) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
This album presents a meeting between two Polish Jazz veterans: saxophonist / composer Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist. The two cooperated in various Jazz ensembles since the late 1950s and until mid 1960s and this album marks their reunion in the studio after several years of not playing together due to Karolak´s residence in Sweden in the late 1960s / early 1970s. The two are joined by another veteran, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, and excellent guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist and together they play six tunes, five of which are standards and one id a Wroblewski original. Karolak plays the Hammond Organ, a sound that would be associated with him for his entire future career, and his passion fro that instrument is clearly evident here. Wroblewski and Blizinski play fire solos and Bartkowski drives the quartet forward at all times. Although typically mainstream, this is still great Jazz, performed with passion and considerable talent, which should be enjoyable to all Jazz connoisseurs. Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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