Record Reviews
24 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | BRECKER BROTHERS ~ THE COMPLETE ARISTA ALBUMS COLLECTION
SONY 886979796225 (Barcode: 886979796225) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1975 - 1980 Released: 2012
Brothers Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet / flugelhorn) and Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist (saxophone) are collectively and individually symbols of the American Jazz, Fusion and Funk scenes. They can be credited as co-inventors and pioneers of the American Jazz-Rock Fusion in the late 1960s and early 1970s (DreamsFind albums by this artist, Blood, Sweat & TearsFind albums by this artist), especially as defining the Brass-Rock movement. By the mid-1970s they founded one of the most iconic and influential ensembles, calling it simply Brecker BrothersFind albums by this artist (or Brecker Bros.Find albums by this artist), which added Funk to the already well defined Fusion genre, creating a unique voice of unparalleled sophistication, feel and vitality, which had little, if any competition.
The Brecker Brothers band existed originally for about six years, recording six marvelous albums between 1975 and 1980 (a reunion band recorded two more albums in early 1990s) The lineup changed over time and in retrospect included the absolute cream of the crop of American Fusion and Funk musicians active at the time: saxophonist David SanbornFind albums by this artist, guitarists Bob MannFind albums by this artist, Steve KhanFind albums by this artist, Barry FinnertyFind albums by this artist and others, keyboardists Don GrolnickFind albums by this artist, George DukeFind albums by this artist and others, bassists Will LeeFind albums by this artist, Neil JasonFind albums by this artist and Marcus MillerFind albums by this artist, drummers Harvey MasonFind albums by this artist, Christopher ParkerFind albums by this artist, Terry BozzioFind albums by this artist, Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and others. These names really tell the story, and the collective talents combined with the extraordinary compositions by Randy and Michael and the intricate arrangements created some of the unforgettable music, which still sounds as goof today as it did at the time it was recorded.
This Box Set collects all the original six albums, released on the Arista label, and adds a couple of little known albums recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1978, originally called "Blue MontreuxFind albums with this title" and "Blue Montreux IIFind albums with this title", which find Randy and Michael in the company of other Jazz luminaries: pianist Warren BernhardtFind albums by this artist, guitarists Steve Khan and Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Mike MainieriFind albums by this artist, bassists Tony LevinFind albums by this artist and Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Steve JordanFind albums by this artist, performing some Brecker Brothers material and other original compositions, all perfectly executed.
With Michael´s tragic death in 2007, hearing the Brecker Brothers again is no longer possible, so this Box Set is a great tribute to a closed chapter in the history of American music, which should be remembered, as it is timeless and essential. Changing fads and fashions slide away, leaving the solid gold shining…
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ ALBUM (EXPANDED EDITION)
COLUMBIA 64963 (Barcode: 5099706496328) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1996
The history of jazz is crowned by a small pantheon of stellar figures, which are (more or less) unequivocally accepted as the most prominent contributors to the development of the genre. Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist are members of that exclusive club and so is Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, the most influential jazz pianist ever.
Since Evans’ biography is available from many sources, I won’t go into it here, so here are just a few personal comments: Although Evens played in a variety of settings, he surely deserves the title of inventor of the piano trio, a format in which most of his exceptional work was done. Over the years Evans led a series of legendary trios with the most eloquent bass and drums players, primarily noticeable for the phenomenal and telepathic level of interplay between the trio members. His (fortunately) numerable trio recordings are not only a document of his exceptional sensibility and lyricism as a player and composer, but also cornerstones of musical collaboration. Starting from the first trio (1959) with Scott LaFaroFind albums by this artist and Paul MotianFind albums by this artist and up to the last moments of his life (1980) with Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and Joe LaBarberaFind albums by this artist, the trio recording have always been the safest bets on musical delight one might ever take when buying a jazz album.
This particular album, recorded with legends Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist on bass and Marty MorellFind albums by this artist on drums, is very important in Evans’ history. It includes his first contributions on the electric piano (a custom-made version of the Fender Rhodes), which he will explore more extensively later in his career. It also includes exclusively his own compositions, as opposed to his treatments of jazz standards, which were earlier the bulk of his recording material. This was the first of the only two albums Evans recorded for ColumbiaFind albums on this label – the other (“Living Time”) still awaiting a proper reissue. I can’t imagine anybody who loves jazz (or in fact anybody who loves music) ignoring this album, so if you still don’t have it – now is your chance. Absolutely essential!
| | Updated: 01/03/2024Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ ANOTHER TIME: THE HILVERSUM CONCERT
RESONANCE 2031 (Barcode: 096802280405) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2017
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. It is only the 3rd album released by this particular trio. The music was recorded at the Dutch Radio Union studio on June 22, 1968, just a couple of days after the recording at the legendary MPSFind albums on this label Records studio in Villingen, Germany, on June 20, 1968, which yielded the “Some Other Time: The Lost Session From The Black ForestFind albums with this title”, released by ResonanceFind albums on this label Records a year earlier. The recording took place just one week after Evans and the trio recorded the iconic live album “At The Montreux Jazz FestivalFind albums with this title”.
The album presents nine tracks, three of which are Evans’ originals and the rest are standards. It offers a stunning sound quality, one of the absolutely best live Evans’ recordings. It also features an extended booklet with interviews with Gomez and DeJohnette and other background information.
The music is executed with passion and elegance, which were always the essential ingredients of Evans’ music. There are trio, duo and solo performances. The phenomenal and literally symbiotic relationship between Evans and Gomez is omnipresent and the bass gets a prominent presence in the mix and numerous solo spots, in contrast to the drums, which are almost completely far in the background, when present at all. DeJohnette was a member of the trio for just a few months and this is perhaps why his role on this album is minimized, which results in most of the music sounding like a piano / bass duo, which of course does not lessen any of the music’s magic quality.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering a lesser documented period of his activity. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: 23/01/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ BEHIND THE DIKES: THE 1969 NETHERLANDS RECORDINGS
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990441 (Barcode: 8435395503164) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2021
This is an archival live album by American pianist / composer Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded in March, 1969 at the KRO Radio station in Hilversum and RAI Congrescentrum in Amsterdam. Two newly discovered tracks were recorded at Vara Studio 8 in Hilversum with the Metropole OrkestFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twenty-four tracks, six of which are original compositions by Evans and the rest are standards.
This particular Bill Evans trio was the longest lasting of his trios (1968-1974) and his collaboration with Gomez (1968-1977) was the longest lasting cooperation with a bassist, and this album, recorded about a year after this trio was formed, explains why it lasted so long. The telepathic rapport between the trio members is absolutely unique and the way they share the stage is absolutely beyond human.
The remastered recording offers excellent sound quality, with an intimate closeness to the original sound and good balance between the piano and rhythm section, which is often totally botched by professionals recording live, especially piano trios. Gomez solos extensively, and his virtuosic and unique approach is audible herein at its full magnificence. The album includes an extensive booklet with fabulous photographs, well written articles and interviews with Gomez, Morell and others.
Overall, this is another archival Bill Evans album label, which brings to life previously legally unreleased recordings by the piano Genius, which of course immediately becomes an essential piece of every Evans’ collector music library. Although the same tunes are already available on other albums, live and studio, Evan’s touch and the trio’s symbiosis are worth being listened to in every possible shape and form.
| | Updated: 29/03/2024Posted: 29/03/2024 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ EVANS IN ENGLAND
RESONANCE 2037 (Barcode: 712758040329) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2019
This is an archival live album by American pianist / composer Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded illegally in December, 1969 at the Ronnie Scott’s Club in London by a French fan who followed Evans to attend all his European concerts and record them on a mobile tape recorder. The 2CD album presents eighteen tracks, six of which are original compositions by Evans and the rest are standards.
This particular Bill Evans trio was the longest lasting of his trios (1968-1974) and his collaboration with Gomez (1968-1977) was the longest lasting cooperation with a bassist, and this album, recorded about a year after this trio was formed, explains why it lasted so long. The telepathic rapport between the trio members is absolutely unique and the way they share the stage is absolutely beyond human.
Despite the fact that the music was recorded using a single microphone, the sound quality is perfect as far as live recordings are concerned, with an intimate closeness to the source and good balance between the piano and the bass, which is often totally botched by professionals recording live, especially piano trios. As it turns out it was absolutely worth the fifty years’ wait to be able to hear these recordings.
Overall, this is another archival Bill Evans albums released by the ResonanceFind albums on this label label, which brings to life previously unreleased recordings by the piano Genius, which of course immediately becomes an essential piece of every Evans’ collector music library. Although the same tunes are already available on other albums, live and studio, Evan’s touch and the trio’s symbiosis are worth being listened to in every possible shape and form.
| | Updated: 02/06/2023Posted: 02/06/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ IN NORWAY: THE KONGSBERG CONCERT
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990447 (Barcode: 8435395503935) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2024
This is another archival live album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, recorded on June 26, 1970, at the peak of Evans’ creative power. It features, as usual, an extended booklet with interview with Evans by Norwegian journalist / critic Randi HultinFind albums by this artist the day after the concert, reflections by Gomez, Morell and others, superb historic photographs and other background information.
The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds the pleasure of listening to the music. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula.
These recordings, made with his longest lasting trio (six years 1968-1974), show Evans at his best, full of lyricism and sophisticated delicate touch on the keyboard. Gomez’s incredible support on the bass is absolutely stunning, a true soul brother and musical companion to Evans, as is the intricate playing by Morell.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 05/01/2025Posted: 05/01/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ LIVE AT ART D`LUGOFF`S TOP OF THE GATE
RESONANCE 2012 (Barcode: 724101961526) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2012
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents two full sets played at that date, together seventeen tracks, recorded on October 23, 1968, at the peak of Evans’ creative power. Three of the performed compositions appear in both sets. All the tracks are standards, except for one original composition by Evans. As usual the album features an extended booklet with essays, superb historic photographs and other background information.
The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds to the pleasure of listening to the music. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula.
These recordings, made with his longest lasting trio (six years 1968-1974), show Evans at his best, full of lyricism and sophisticated delicate touch on the keyboard. Gomez’s incredible support on the bass is absolutely stunning, a true soul brother and musical companion to Evans, as is the intricate playing by Morell.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering his early dates with the Gomez / Morell trio. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 15/06/2024Posted: 15/06/2024 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ MORNING GLORY: THE 1973 CONCERT AT THE TEATRO GRAN REX, BUENOS AIRES
RESONANCE 2061 (Barcode: 617270122761) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2022
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents thirteen tracks, recorded on June 24, 1973, at the peak of Evans’ creative power. This album is a companion release to the album “Inner Spirit: The 1979 Concert At The Teatro General San Martin, Buenos AiresFind albums with this title”, which was recorded six years later with the last trio. It also features an extended booklet with interviews with Gomez, Morell and others, superb historic photographs and other background information.
The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds the pleasure of listening to the music. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula.
These recordings, made with his longest lasting trio (six years 1968-1974), show Evans at his best, full of lyricism and sophisticated delicate touch on the keyboard. Gomez’s incredible support on the bass is absolutely stunning, a true soul brother and musical companion to Evans, as is the intricate playing by Morell.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering his live appearances in Argentina. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 08/05/2024Posted: 08/05/2024 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ SOME OTHER TIME: THE LOST SESSION FROM THE BLACK FOREST
RESONANCE 2019 (Barcode: 096802280276) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2016
This is a sensational archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded at the legendary MPSFind albums on this label Records studio in Villingen, Germany, on June 20, 1968, by the owner of the label Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) and produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist. The material was subsequently not released, despite several attempts, and remained in the MPS vaults for almost five decades, to be finally released by ResonanceFind albums on this label Records.
The recording took place just five days after Evans and the trio recorded the iconic live album “At The Montreux Jazz FestivalFind albums with this title”. The 2CD album presents eleven tracks on CD1, which were selected for the intended MPS album, which never materialized, and ten tracks on CD2, which are outtakes and alternate takes, all of course worth being heard. Evans did eventually record an album for MPS some six years later, the groundbreaking orchestral “SymbiosisFind albums with this title”, which is a completely another pair of shoes.
The music consists of a mixture of standards and Evans’ originals, executed with passion and elegance, which were always the essential ingredients of Evans’ music. There are trio, duo and solo performances. The phenomenal and literally symbiotic relationship between Evans and Gomez is omnipresent and the bass gets a prominent presence in the mix and numerous solo spots, in contrast to the drums, which are almost completely far in the background, when present at all. DeJohnette was a member of the trio for just a few months and this is perhaps why his role on this album is minimized, which results in most of the music sounding like a piano / bass duo, which of course does not lessen any of the music’s magic quality.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering a lesser documented period of his activity. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: 15/05/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ SYMBIOSIS
MPS 4029759115489 (Barcode: 4029759115489) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of the seminal album by American pianist / composer Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, which was his only album for MPSFind albums on this label, recorded with his trio featuring bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist and accompanied by an Orchestra conducted by the legendary German composer / arranger / conductor Claus OgermanFind albums by this artist, who also composed and arranged the two-movement concerto performed by the trio and the Orchestra. The Orchestra included members of the New York PhilharmonicFind albums by this artist and many top American Jazz musicians, like saxophonist Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist, flautist Hubert LawsFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Marvin StammFind albums by this artist and many others.
The music is a sensational example of early Jazz-Classical Fusion, combining elements of Twentieth Century European Classical Music and Jazz, masterly composed and arranged by Ogerman, who was one of the greatest orchestrators of his time and who boldly combined Classical music with Rock, World Music and Jazz, like no others before him and was revered by many musicians and music lovers around the world.
Evans, who was the greatest Jazz piano player ever, was a natural choice to become a part of this cross-genre project, as his enormous sensitivity and sublime virtuosity was always soaked with typical European melancholy and harmonic structures. His performances on this album, which is by far his most atypical recording, prove that his open-mindedness and vision allowed him to cope effortlessly with the unusual orchestral ambience this music required of him. His acoustic and electric piano sounds perfectly right every time it is heard on this album, creating an integral part of the overall orchestral reverberation.
The magnificent bass playing by Gomez is always side by side with Evans, who is known to have developed symbiotic relationships with his bassist over the years. Morell keeps a wonderfully precise and delicate time during the trio parts, as he always did with Evans. Since this was the Evans´ longest-lasting and most stable trio, no wonder their performances together are simply marvelous.
This awe-inspiring album lost absolutely nothing of its intrinsic beauty and expressiveness over the time, au contraire it still remains as one of the most perfect Jazz-Classical Fusion recordings ever, certainly as far as aesthetics, intelligence, sophistication and inspiration are concerned. Although probably Evans´ least know album, surely in America, it is definitely one of his most auspicious achievements, certainly more important from the historic point of view than his less ambitious, albeit always brilliant, albums recorded for the American market.
This is an absolute gem and an essential piece of every decent collection of good music. It is certainly wonderful to have it back in circulation.
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 28/05/2018Posted: 30/11/2016 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ TALES: LIVE IN COPENHAGEN (1964)
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990445 (Barcode: 8435395503751) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 - 1969 Released: 2023
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic piano trio setting with bassist Chuck IsraelsFind albums by this artist and drummer Larry BunkerFind albums by this artist during Evans’ first European tour. The album presents eleven tracks, six recorded on August 10, 1964 at Danish Radio (without audience), four recorded on August 25, 1964 at Danish TV and finally one (“bonus”) track recorded on November 21, 1969 with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. Three of the tracks are Evans’ originals and the rest are standards. This album is a follow up release to the 2CD album “Treasures: Solo, Trio And Orchestral Recordings From Denmark (1965-1969)Find albums with this title”, which presents other recording by Evans in Denmark, and which completes these historical recordings. It also features an extended booklet with interviews with Israels and Bunker’s widow and other background information.
The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds to the pleasure of listening to this album. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering his live appearances in Europe. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: 26/01/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ TREASURES: SOLO, TRIO & ORCHESTRA RECORDINGS FROM DENMARK (1965-1969)
ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990444 (Barcode: 8435395503645) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 - 1969 Released: 2023
This is another archival album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded at various occasions in Denmark and including solo piano performances, trios with Danish bassist Niels-Henning Orsted PedersenFind albums by this artist / American bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and Danish drummer Alex RielFind albums by this artist / American drummers Alan DawsonFind albums by this artist or Marty MorellFind albums by this artist and The Royal Danish Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist and The Danish Radio Big BandFind albums by this artist conducted by trumpeter, arranger Palle MikkelborgFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents thirty tracks, recorded between 1965 and 1969. This album is a companion release to the album “Tales: Live In Copenhagen (1964)Find albums with this title”, which presents other performances by Evans in Denmark, and which completes these historical recordings. It also features an extended booklet with interviews with Gomez, Morell, Riel, Mikkelborg and others and other background information.
The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds the pleasure of listening to this album. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula.
Of course this is also a relatively rare opportunity to hear Evans playing solo piano and the trio playing with Orchestra / Big Band, which expands the presentation of Evans’ brilliance and incredible musicianship. Luckily for the many Evans’ fans, he was extensively recorded and his recorded legacy is truly extensive, with this album being an exemplary part of it.
Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy, covering his live appearances in Europe. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.
| | Updated: 25/03/2024Posted: 23/02/2024 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL EVANS ~ YOU MUST BELIEVE IN SPRING (EXPANDED EDITION)
RHINO 73719 (Barcode: 081227371920) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2003
Although recorded in 1977 this wonderful album by Bill EvansFind albums by this artist was only released originally in 1981, after Evans` untimely death. Evans of course was the greatest jazz pianist of all time and a class in himself. His superb technique, but even more importantly his exceptional feel of melody and lyrical expressionism are unmatched. His favorite format was the piano trio (piano, bass & drums) and the majority of his very extensive recorded legacy is in that format. This album is a prime example of the trio format (with Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist - bass and Elliot ZigmundFind albums by this artist - drums). An absolute must!
| | Updated: 23/02/2024Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | MORDY FERBER ~ BEING THERE
HALF NOTE ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 2003
This is the 3rd album as a leader by Israeli guitarist / composer Mordy FerberFind albums by this artist, recorded with a fabulous group of excellent musicians, which includes the rhythm section comprising of bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brad HatfieldFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Norwegian Ole MathisenFind albums by this artist (on one track), percussionist Frank ColonFind albums by this artist and finally bassist Will LeeFind albums by this artist and Japanese trumpeter Tiger OkoshiFind albums by this artist (both on one track). The album presents nine tracks, all original compositions by the leader.
The music is a brilliant collection of beautiful tunes, highly melodic and touching, all superbly performed by all the participants. Although Ferber is the main soloists, this album is not about showing his extraordinary guitar skills, but more of a team effort, to present the compositions at the most harmonious setting. That does not mean, of course, that his guitar is not featured prominently, and for guitar lovers this album is an absolute delight from start to finish.
Also prominent is the extraordinary talent and unique feel of Eddie Gomez, who seems to be an ideal partner in crime herein. His work throughout the album, and especially the duo and trio tracks, where his bass is up front, are simply stunning. But all the musicians on this album seem to have a great time and play their hearts out.
Overall, this is a stunning album in every respect, which spotlights Ferber both as a brilliant guitarist with a unique sound and feel, and an excellent weaver of melodies, which are coherent and aesthetically pleasing. In a world, where true artistry is appreciated, this album should have reached every Jazz lover and guitar enthusiast the world over, but alas that is nor the case. But it is never too late to grab a copy – you won’t regret it!
| | Updated: 07/09/2024Posted: 07/09/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MORDY FERBER ~ MR. X
HALF NOTE 4205 (Barcode: 015095420527) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 2000
This is the 2nd album as a leader by Israeli guitarist / composer Mordy FerberFind albums by this artist, recorded with a spectacular lineup, which includes American saxophonists Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist and George GarzoneFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Brad HatfieldFind albums by this artist, bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist, drummer Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and Brazilian percussionist Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, six of which are original compositions by Ferber and one is by Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist. This is a second edition of the album.
Ferber, born in 1958 near Haifa, was one of the several young Israeli musicians, who frequented my home while growing up and getting into Jazz, partly under my influence. By the end of the 1970s and in early 1980s Ferber became a most sought after Israeli session guitarists and took part in recording many legendary albums at the time. He left to study at Berklee, like many other Israeli Jazz musicians, and decided to stay in the US, visiting Israel occasionally.
The music floats between melodic contemporary Jazz and some more Fusion influenced pieces, all beautifully put together and performed by this highly talented team. His guitar performances are nothing short of stellar and the entire album is a great piece of delightful music, which sadly never achieved the proper attention on the US scene, which has always been flooded by way too many releases. He recorded several more albums but his output sadly does not reflect his great talent, which is a great pity.
Overall, this is a beautiful album, full of great music and spectacular playing, which is criminally little known both in Israel and on the global scene. The contributions by Eddie Gomez are especially stunning and alone worth getting a copy of this album. Of course guitar enthusiasts should be also fully satisfied. A great piece of personal nostalgia for me.
| | Updated: 07/09/2024Posted: 18/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GIORGIO GASLINI ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON DISCHI DELLA QUERCIA
CAM JAZZ 5001 (Barcode: 8052405140708) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1985 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set collects all the recordings by legendary Italian pianist / composer / bandleader Giorgio GasliniFind albums by this artist, released on his own Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label label. The set includes eleven albums featuring various Gaslini´s ensembles (quartet, quintet, sextet and octet) as well as his duos with American musicians like Roswell RuddFind albums by this artist, Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist.
Gaslini (who died in 2014) was one of the pillars of modern Italian Jazz, recorded dozens of albums and led countless ensembles during his career that spanned almost seven decades. In parallel to his Jazz activities he also composed music for cinema and contemporary Classical Music. He was one of the few Italian musicians known outside of his country and a tireless and prolific Jazz propagator in his country. In retrospect he is one of the Godfathers of European Jazz.
Gaslini played modern Jazz, which often stood on the verge of Free, always challenging the boundaries of the genre, as can be heard well on the albums included here. His ensembles were always a breeding ground for generations of young Italian musicians, like the ones found here: Gianni BedoriFind albums by this artist, Gianluigi TrovesiFind albums by this artist, Daniele Di GregorioFind albums by this artist and many others.
This music is an absolute must to all European Jazz enthusiasts, and the fact that it is available again is pure joy. Gaslini was a genius composer and pianist and his legacy must be preserved and studied by the new generation of Jazz musicians.
Remastered, mini-sleeved and with a great bargain price – this Box Set is an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 12/04/2020Posted: | CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOACHIM KUHN ~ NIGHTLINE NEW YORK
IN-AKUSTIK 869 (Barcode: 4001985008698) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2000
This is a reissue / remaster of the album by German Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, recorded in NY with an all American team, which included saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Bob MintzerFind albums by this artist, bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Billy HartFind albums by this artist. Percussionist Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The album presents five tracks, all composed by Kuhn.
The music is a brilliant display of modern Jazz, performed by some of the best American Jazz musicians active at the time, and highly charged by the presence of Kuhn, who is taking both the music and the performances on a completely new lever both energetically and aesthetically.
The music is based on solid and beautifully melodic themes, and performed within the standard Jazz framework, but Kuhn’s piano playing is well beyond the ordinary and fills the aural space with incredibly dense arpeggios and sophisticated harmonics. The combined result of the “well behaved” Americans and the “wild” European, who originates from far-out Avant-Garde but proves that he can be seemingly as “tamed” as the best traditionalist, is simply epic.
In many respects this album is a classic example of the colossal difference between American and European Jazz, a dissonance which Kuhn manages to put to work together perfectly. In culinary terms it’s a bit like adding pepper to chocolate, which might have been shocking and unthought-of, when proposed for the first time, but soon found many admirers.
Overall, although being a rather singular episode in Kuhn’s extraordinary recording legacy, and probably one of his most obscure albums, this is a superb piece of music and a highly educational document of the Euro-American Jazz relations. It is, of course, an absolute must to all serious Jazz lovers.
| | Updated: 22/02/2025Posted: 22/02/2025 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALBERT MANGELSDORFF ~ A JAZZ TUNE I HOPE
MPS 602517602359 (Barcode: 602517602359) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2008
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by German trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with German pianist Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist and American rhythm section: bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all original compositions, seven by Mangelsdorff and one by Jones. Three of the tracks are duos, one each with all the three members of the quartet. The album was produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist and the booklet includes his original liner notes.
The music is stunningly brilliant and presents not only Mangelsdorff’s unique virtuosity, but also his sublime skills as a composer and his phenomenal ability to make contact with other musicians. In fact, he played with all these three musicians earlier on, but never together as a quartet. The three duos are beautiful examples of the “Art of the Duo” phenomenon, in which Mangelsdorff excelled throughout his career.
The album is one of several outstanding recordings Mangelsdorff made for MPS, all of which are milestones of European Jazz, and surely also are some of the most important examples of the role of trombone in Jazz, of which he was the greatest Master ever, and who revolutionized its role in modern Jazz, breaking all the limitations of the instrument.
Overall, this is a sublime example of the European Jazz achievements, which expanded the genre beyond its original boundaries and took it to new artistic levels, outgrowing the tradition beyond the imagination. A true gem deserving an honorable place in every serious Jazz record collection!
Side Note
The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet.
In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker.
Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace.
In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically.
Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.
| | Updated: 10/03/2025Posted: 10/03/2025 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JEREMY STEIG & EDDIE GOMEZ ~ MUSIC FOR FLUTE & DOUBLE BASS / RAIN FOREST
ART OF GROOVE 80242 (Barcode: 885513802422) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1978 - 1980 Released: 2015
This is a reissue of two excellent albums recorded by the two American Jazz Masters, flautist / composer Jeremy SteigFind albums by this artist and bassist / composer Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist. "Music For Flute & Double BassFind albums with this title", recorded in 1978, is a duo album which finds Steig and Gomez exchanging licks in an intimate setting, while "Rain ForestFind albums with this title", recorded in 1980, finds them in the company of several musicians: Austrian guitarist Karl RatzerFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Mike NockFind albums by this artist, drummers Steve GaddFind albums by this artist and Jack DeJohnetteFind albums by this artist and percussionists Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist and Ray BarrettoFind albums by this artist. Both albums are remastered and each features one bonus track recorded by the duo live during the 1978 Berlin Jazz Days. Both albums were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label and present all original material composed by Steig and Gomez.
Steig and Gomez go together way back to the 1960s, when they were members of the proto Fusion band Jeremy & The SatyrsFind albums by this artist, and their paths crossed regularly over the years. They have developed over time a rare affinity and understanding between themselves, which comes into beautiful fruition on these albums.
The duo album is a superb opportunity to witness the incredible virtuosity these two players are capable of delivering, as well as enjoy their telepathic dialogues. The studio environment enables them to multi track and overlay several instruments in parallel, producing a richer and more impressive sonic result, without disturbing the intimacy and delicacy of that session.
The group album presents several different lineups from the list of participants above, and is an orgy of brilliant performances, polyrhythmic complexity and joy of life. Many excellent solos chase one another and everybody gets an opportunity to show their chops, as appropriate for the occasion. It is much more Fusion oriented than the intimate duo album.
Musically these albums amalgamate many different influences, obviously based on the Jazz tradition but incorporating many World Music characteristics, some Fusion tendencies and even contemporary Classical music vistas. Sadly these two albums never enjoyed the popularity they truly deserved and therefore this is a great opportunity to get hold of them again for a very fair price. After all this music should definitely be part of every serious music collection.
| | Updated: 28/06/2016Posted: 28/06/2016 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FRANTISEK UHLIR ~ BASS DEVOTION / BASSSAGA
MULTISONIC 310808 (Barcode: 741941080828) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 - 2010 Released: 2010
This 2CD set presents two quite different recordings by Czech bassist / composer Frantisek UhlirFind albums by this artist, one of the veterans of the local scene with a splendid career behind him. From his early days as a member of the legendary SHQFind albums by this artist ensemble, led by the Godfather of Czech Jazz vibraphonist Karel VelebnyFind albums by this artist, and consistently over the years, Uhlir established his position as the perfect bass player suitable to support any ensemble, take part in any recording, as well as lead his own groups. His incredible technique, superb feel for melody, perfect timing and beautiful tone place him among the world’s top Jazz bassists, stylistically comparable to Scott LaFaroFind albums by this artist and Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist. Needless to say he has been one of my favorite bass players ever since I heard him first in the 1970s and I followed his career as much as I could. Uhlir performed with the best players on the local scene, such as pianists Emil ViklickyFind albums by this artist and Karel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Laco DecziFind albums by this artist, guitarist Rudolf DasekFind albums by this artist and many others. He also accompanied many visiting Jazz luminaries at their Prague concerts as well as toured abroad.
The first album in this set presents is a live recording of Uhlir with his recent ensemble, called Frantisek Uhlir TeamFind albums by this artist, which also includes saxophonist David VrobelFind albums by this artist, guitarist Adam TvrdyFind albums by this artist and veteran drummer Jaromir HelesicFind albums by this artist. They perform seven compositions, five of which are Uhlir’s originals and two are standards. The performances are excellent and highly spirited, with the leader soloing frequently, sometimes also playing arco (using the bow), which is rarely heard today. Uhlir’s compositions are great vehicles for the players to show their skills and are examples of great modern Jazz, which is not trying to be over pretentious.
The second album is a most welcome reissue of Uhlir’s debut album as a leader, recorded in 1984, which presents seven of his original compositions performed by an all-star lineup with vibraphonist Karel Velebny, pianist Emil Viklicky, drummer Tony NaharFind albums by this artist, guitarist Zdenek DvorakFind albums by this artist, percussionist Josef VejvodaFind albums by this artist and a string quartet. Beautifully arranged and exquisitely performed, this is a dream of an album, which every bass lover on this planet should listen to, given the opportunity.
It’s delightful to have this music finally available on CD. Overall this set is a sizeable portion of superb modern mainstream Jazz with virtuosic bass performances, which are exciting, elegant and highly intelligent. Charming stuff!
| | Updated: 16/03/2022Posted: | CD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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