Record Reviews

LEE KONITZ / KENNY WHEELER ~ OLDEN TIMES – LIVE AT BIRDLAND NEUBURG CHALLENGE 71146 (Barcode: 608917114621) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1999 Released: 2016 This is a reissue / remaster of a live album by the quartet co-led by American saxophonist / composer Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, with a German rhythm section comprising of pianist Frank WunschFind albums by this artist and bassist Gunnar PlumerFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks (one of which is a bonus on this new edition), three of which are composed by Konitz, four by Wheeler, two by Wunsch and one by Plumer. The album offers a beautiful sound quality and ambience. The music is all highly melodic mainstream Jazz, superbly performed by these great musicians. The absence of drums aids the gentle, intimate atmosphere, and shifts the responsibility of keeping time to the bassist, who stands up to the challenge formidably. The interplay between Konitz and Wheeler is simply marvelous, both being lost romantics and highly sensitive songweavers, which results in truly heartwarming music. Although this is one of the least known albums in Wheeler’s discography, it is one of most wonderful examples of his sublime trumpet / flugelhorn work, and is a must to all his many followers. Konitz also plays as sweetly and seductively as he is able, and together they are simply irresistible. Overall, this is a wonderful piece of music, seemingly unpretentious and subdued, but full of artistry and elegance, which is only rarely achieved to such degree. In short, this is an absolute must for true Jazz lovers and an indispensable piece for all Wheeler collectors!

Updated: 14/12/2024Posted: 14/12/2024

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend