Record Reviews

JAKUB KLIMIUK QUINTET ~ (UN)BALANCED NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 198500118957) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024 This is the debut full album (an EP was released in 2022) by Polish (resident in London) Jazz guitarist / composer Jakub KlimiukFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with British saxophonist Simeon MayFind albums by this artist, pianist Cody MossFind albums by this artist, bassist Harry PearceFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. KinzanFind albums by this artist) and drummer Adam MerrellFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Mark LockheartFind albums by this artist guests on a couple of tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, all original compositions by the leader. The music is based on solid, mostly very melodic themes, and floats between mainstream Jazz and sophisticated Fusion, which is pretty natural for guitar led projects. All the participants are well educated, excellent performers, which is evident throughout the album. The album offers seven full-length compositions and five short pieces, performed in solo or duo setting by the quintet members and called “Studies”. I would have loved to hear more soloing by the pianist, who is less prominently featured, but that’s just a whim. The music combines two somewhat different musical directions, with the saxophone parts representing the modern Jazz tendencies, which are more open, and the guitar, which has a somewhat Fusiony tendency, which is more tight and melodic. That balance works very well and results in a diverse and interesting listening experience. Overall, this is an excellent debut effort, which offers excellent original compositions and splendid instrumental work by the musicians involved, which results in a well-balanced and pleasant musical journey. Highly recommended and worth keeping an eye on in the future!

Updated: 22/05/2024Posted: 22/05/2024

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