Record Reviews
23 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | EWA BEM ~ BE A MAN (POLISH JAZZ VOL.65)
MUZA 1065 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2006
This is the 2nd album by the excellent Polish Jazz vocalist Ewa BemFind albums by this artist, who dominated the female vocals spot in her country in the late 1970s and 1980s and is still active today. The five songs, which were included on side A of the vinyl LP are standards, which she sings in English and the six songs on side B of the vinyl LP are all originals, written especially for her, which she sings in Polish. She is accompanied by a wonderful octet, called Swing SessionFind albums by this artist, led by Polish Jazz icon, trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the wonderful arrangements. The octet members include also reedmen Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, trombonist Zbigniew KonopczynskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Henryk StefanskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy StwarzFind albums by this artist and drummer Tadeusz FederowskiFind albums by this artist. Male vocalist Zbigniew WodeckiFind albums by this artist guests on two songs and three songs have also string arrangements. Whatever Bem misses as a virtuoso vocalist, she fully compensates by her wonderfully warm tone and exceptional musicality. Her interpretation and delivery are first-rate and she is definitely a world-class performer. Although pretty mainstream, this music is done with elegance and taste, which is why it stands the test of time wonderfully. Warmly recommended to fans of female Jazz vocals!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ DABROWSKI / ALL STARS ~ LIVE
FOR TUNE 0154 (Barcode: 5906395808700) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 - 2021 Released: 2022
This is a live album by veteran / iconic Polish Jazz vocalist / drummer Andrzej DabrowskiFind albums by this artist, recorded during a concert celebrating his 80th Birthday. He is accompanied by a formidable sexted comprising of top Polish Jazz musicians: trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, trombonist Michal TomaszczykFind albums by this artist, pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Marcin JahrFind albums by this artist. Dabrowski sings nine songs, seven of which are American standards and two are Polish ones, written by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and Agnieszka OsieckaFind albums by this artist. A bonus track, the symbolic “My Way” (sung in Polish), recorded at the Polish Radio three years later with different musicians, is added to complete the set.
Dabrowski has been a part of the Polish Jazz scene since its inception and this album is a loving tribute to his lifetime contribution to the Polish Jazz scene and its achievements. Considering the age of the protagonist of this recording, any attempt to say anything about his performances are completely irrelevant, and would simply miss the point by a mile. The musicians gathered here all pay tribute to their colleague, with obvious respect and adoration, and that is all that matters.
Overall, the For TuneFind albums on this label label should be congratulated for releasing this loving tribute, which is a wonderful document of the Polish Jazz scene history. The respect paid to Culture is always highly appreciated.
Side Note:
This For Tune release initiates the new graphic layout of the label’s releases, which combines the decade-long tradition of consistent elegance and class. The move to digipak from the traditional jewel case is a sign of commitment to the collectors, many of which own the entire output of this excellent label, now numbering 155 releases – a true treasure of Polish Jazz.
| | Updated: 09/06/2022Posted: 09/06/2022 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOJCIECH GLUCH ~ ZYCIE KAMILA KURANTA (SOUNDTRACK)
GAD 089 (Barcode: 5903068120213) ~ POLAND ~ Soundtracks
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2019
This is the first ever release of the soundtrack of the Polish TV series "Zycie Kamila Kuranta" composed by Wojciech GluchFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded by an orchestra conducted by Gluch, who also played piano on some of the tracks, and features top instrumentalist, some known from the Polish Jazz scene: accordionist Adam ZemlaFind albums by this artist, clarinetist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist and pianist Pawel PerlinskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents sixteen tracks, most of which were incorporated into the soundtrack of the episodes of the TV series, but also some that were omitted from the soundtrack and appear here for the first time.
The music is absolutely stunning and full of the Polish lyricism and melancholy, stylistically close to contemporary chamber Classical music but also incorporating elements of Jazz and Folkloristic motifs.
It is a wonderful example of cinematic / incidental music that has a complete and full "life" by itself and is fascinating without the initially intended role as soundtrack. Gluch is a masterful composer, who wrote many soundtracks for TV and theatre performances over the years as well as Classical music. He left Poland and now lives in Sweden, where he is highly successful.
As usual GAD Records bring this music to our attention, saving it from oblivion, which is truly commendable. This album is probably the most beautiful from the many soundtracks released by GAD over the years.
| | Updated: 22/06/2019Posted: 22/06/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANNA MARIA JOPEK ~ DWA SERDUSZKA CZTERY OCZY
UNIVERSAL 602517947825 (Barcode: 602517947825) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2005 - 2008 Released: 2008
This phenomenal Box Set, or rather book set, combines three albums by Polish vocalist / songwriter Anna Maria JopekFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. AMJFind albums by this artist), recorded over a period of several years in the mid 2000s. It includes the album "IDFind albums with this title", a CD full of demos and outtakes which did not make it to be included on "ID" and the live album "JO & COFind albums by this artist". Together these three CDs summarize the "ID" period, which was a groundbreaking step in AMJ´s development as an artist. Packaged with a marvelous book full of black & white photographs of AMJ and the participating musicians, elegantly designed and exquisitely printed, this is a piece of Art in every sense of the word.
Surrounded by a group of wonderful musicians form Poland and the world over she performs mostly self-written songs, mixing Jazz and World Music with the typical Polish melodic / lyrical atmosphere, which dominates the proceedings. The list of world famous musicians participating on "ID" is most impressive and includes saxophonist Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist, bassists Christian McBrideFind albums by this artist and Richard BonaFind albums by this artist, drummer Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist, percussionist Mino CineluFind albums by this artist, oud player / vocalist Dhafer YoussefFind albums by this artist, guitarist / vocalist Oscar Castro NevesFind albums by this artist and pianist Tord GustavsenFind albums by this artist. Polish musicians include keyboardist Pawel Bzim ZareckiFind albums by this artist, guitarists Marcin KydrynskiFind albums by this artist and Marek NapiorkowskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist, pianist / arranger Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist, who is in charge of the string quartet and orchestral arrangements (performed by the Sinfonia VivaFind albums by this artist Orchestra). The live album includes also organist Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert KubiszynFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist.
The music presents a complex panorama of sounds and ideas, which include many cross-genre excursions, vocal experiments, poetic vistas and intimate dialogs between the Artist and the world that surrounds her. AMJ has one of the sweetest voices on this planet and her big artistry is all about not to make sugary music, which would be quite natural for many other singers. She also has an incredible sense of rhythm in general and Jazzy swing in particular, which is quite rare. Her affinity to music originating beyond her native Polish / European sphere of influence is also quite remarkable. All these, combined with her unique expressionism as a singer and delicate, elegant, intricate vocal delivery make her one of my favorite singers of all times.
AMJ enjoys a superstar status in Poland, which usually is a sign of tasteless commercialism and total lack of any artistic values. Her ability to be extremely popular and at the same time produce first class music is therefore especially impressive. Although some snobbish Jazz circles in her country deem her commercial and populist, this is simply completely unjustified and probably a sign of narrow-mindedness if not worse. I find it hard to believe that anybody listening to this music would feel anything but total admiration, as it is simply perfect.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 3 Box Set Recommend To A Friend |
  | WLODZIMIERZ KORCZ ~ 07 ZGLOS SIE (SOUNDTRACK)
GAD 036 (Barcode: 5901549197464) ~ POLAND ~ Soundtracks
Recorded: 1976 - 1987 Released: 2015
This album collects a series of compositions by pianist / composer Wlodzimierz KorczFind albums by this artist, which were used as the soundtrack of the Polish TV thriller series called "07 Zglos SieFind albums with this title" (07 Call In). Most of the thirty five short (around two minutes on average) tracks are instrumentals and only a few are songs which include lyrics. The music was recorded mostly by the Polish Radio and TV Orchestra, which featured many top Polish Jazz players active at the time and was directed by Andrzej KurylewiczFind albums by this artist. The exact lineups of the orchestra and other combos are undocumented.
The music, although with a certain Jazz tinge, is mostly just easy listening material, which has a certain nostalgic value, but not a real musical impact. What might have been ideal as a soundtrack does not really hold water on its own. Of course some of these compositions are really nice, and are beautifully performed, like the closing track which features saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, but by and large they are pretty forgettable.
Of course for generation of Polish TV viewers this music is an endless source of nostalgic memories, which take them back in time. The cult status of this series, which is still regularly screened by the Polish TV, seems to be everlasting, with young generations of viewers discovering it anew.
| | Updated: 27/02/2016Posted: 27/02/2016 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ROBERT MAJEWSKI ~ PLAYS KOMEDA
GOWI 29 (Barcode: 786497164820) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1995 Released: 1996
Polish Jazz musicians are well aware of the enormous contribution made to modern Jazz in their country by the Genius pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, the Godfather of modern Polish Jazz. Therefore they play tribute to the great man quite often, either by including his compositions or dedicating entire albums to Komeda´s music. This is one of such album, recorded by the great Polish Jazz trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist with his quintet, which comprises of saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianist Wojciech MajewskiFind albums by this artist, (the brilliant!) bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist (if you are wondering, than yes, two pairs of brothers).
The quintet plays pretty straight-forward modern Jazz, not trying to take Komeda´s wonderful compositions far away from their original form, emphasizing the superb melodic quality of the music. These are all master musicians, something that is evident from start to finish, and they play their hearts out, which of course enhances the musical contents enormously. Wegehaupt, as usual, is simply stunning and his bass lines go straight to the listeners belly; he´s surely one of the best out there. Overall this is a great album, which every Jazz fan on this planet should enjoy greatly and with Komeda´s music present, things just can´t get much better. Wholeheartedly recommended!
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  | 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 |
  | WOJCIECH MAJEWSKI ~ NIE BYLO LATA
MTJ 11769 (Barcode: 5906409117699) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 2015 - 2017 Released: 2017
This is an album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Wojciech MajewskiFind albums by this artist, dedicated to poetry written by the relatively esoteric Polish poet / playwright Stanislaw GrochowiakFind albums by this artist. This ambitious and complex project involves an ensemble of Polish Jazz instrumentalists, a string quartet, a brass / woodwind section, six vocalists and two persons reciting poems. Some of the well known musicians appearing on this album are: saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassists Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and Pawel PantaFind albums by this artist, drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, percussionist Krzysztof SzmandaFind albums by this artist and vocalists Janusz SzromFind albums by this artist and Stanislaw SoykaFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Stanislaw SojkaFind albums by this artist). The entire list is simply way too long to be listed. The album presents twenty one relatively short pieces, all linked together into a Jazz & Poetry suite.
The music is a collection of Jazz songs which use the poems as lyrics and background / incidental music played under the recitation of the poems or between the songs. Mostly deeply melancholic and often outright gloomy, the music does ideally suit the texts, which of course is the essence of this project. As such it is a brilliant collaboration of music and words, which expresses the spirit of Grochowiak´s complex poetry. The songs are superbly performed by the vocalists invited by the composer and are all a continuation of the Polish lyrical Jazz & Poetry tradition.
There is no doubt that Polish Jazz musicians create more Jazz & Poetry projects than any other country on earth, which reflects their sensitivity to Art Forms other than music. Music and words are of course both expressions of the innermost human feelings and the combination of the two is probably the most powerful means of human creativity. The love of the Polish language and Polish literary tradition is a strong characteristic of this and other similar projects.
Although the language barrier seemingly limits the potential audience to Polish Language speaking listeners, the overall wealth and powerful musical content this album offers should be also of interest to people who do not know the language but can enjoy the music and absorb the Artistic atmosphere.
Overall this is a wonderful piece of music artistry, clever, intelligent, sensitive and dazzling in its complexity. It will take a while for the listener to comprehend the multi-layered intricacy of this music and its many hidden treasures, but every effort invested in the listening process will pay back with hefty interest. Definitely most wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 10/02/2018Posted: 10/02/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DOROTA MISKIEWICZ ~ PIANO.PL
UNIVERSAL MUSIC POLSKA 602557206852 (Barcode: 602557206852) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is a live recording of a gigantically ambitious project conceived by Polish Jazz vocalist Dorota MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, which pays tribute to the Polish Jazz piano school, which spans several generations and is a sublime example of Polish / European Jazz tradition. The album presents twelve songs, one original by Miskiewicz and eleven "Polish standards" composed and written by the best Polish composers and lyricists, each performed by Miskiewicz accompanied by a different pianist and on eight of them also accompanied by the renowned Atom String QuartetFind albums by this artist. The list of the pianists reads like the who´s who of Polish Jazz: Michal TokajFind albums by this artist, Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, Lutoslawski Piano DuoFind albums by this artist, Bogdan HolowniaFind albums by this artist, Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, Piotr OrzechowskiFind albums by this artist, Tomasz KalwakFind albums by this artist, Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist, Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist, Grzegorz TurnauFind albums by this artist (who also briefly sings) and Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist (Dorota´s Father) guests on one song. The DVD (filmed during the concert), included in the package, adds the concert´s intro, outro and a couple of songs not included on the CD.
I am happy to say that I managed to have a more modest (with just three pianists) version of this project perform at the 2018 Singer Jazz Festival, which was extremely successful.
As expected, all the performances are absolutely wonderful, a typical example of European haute Culture, where music, words and stage performance are combined to deliver an overall experience, which is more than just a sum of its ingredients. The album moves between Jazz & Poetry and highly lyrical popular music, all expertly arranged and brilliantly executed, especially in view of the fact that it was captured live.
This album delivers exactly what it promises: an extraordinary panorama of Polish Jazz piano, full of elegance, virtuosity and flair. Miskiewicz moves with ease from one song to another, with a chameleonic change of moods and emotions, as appropriate for a great performer.
For lovers of Polish Jazz in general and Polish Jazz piano in particular, this album is a superb introduction to the subject. Even for listeners beyond the Polish language sphere, this music easily penetrates and language barriers and should be completely accessible to every music lover.
| | Updated: 14/09/2018Posted: 14/09/2018 | CD+DVD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DOROTA MISKIEWICZ / HENRYK MISKIEWICZ ~ NASZA MILOSC
AGORA 5903111495572 (Barcode: 5903111495572) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2021
This is an album by Polish Jazz vocalist (and violinist) Dorota MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and her Father, saxophonist / composer Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded with an excellent team which includes pianist Piotr OrzechowskiFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. PianohooliganFind albums by this artist), bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and another member of the Miskiewicz clan (often fondly referred to as the “Polish Jazz Royal Family”), Dorota’s brother Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Kurkiewicz and Miskiewicz are the rhythm section of the Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist Trio (previously Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist). The album presents eight original compositions, all composed by Henryk Miskiewicz or co-composed with his two offspring. Seven of the compositions feature lyrics by Polish Poets and one features Dorota singing wordless vocalese.
The music is absolutely beautiful, kept well within the Classic Jazz convention and presenting superb melodies and spotless aesthetics, as well as perfect and truly virtuosic performances. All the five musicians, each in his own specific field, contributes to the final result, which emerges as more than just a sum of its parts.
Dorota masterfully utilizes her velvety voice and her sensitivity to the lyrics, which she interprets splendidly. Henryk ideally emphasizes the romantic atmosphere and proves to be both a great accompanist and a soloist. Piotr adds the spark and fantasy, with his virtuosic piano parts, proving that he can be as imaginative and inventive in mainstream Jazz as he is in more complex Jazz idioms. And the rhythm section is a dream come true, supporting the music firmly and elegantly.
Overall this is a superb vocal Jazz experience, which combines lofty compositions, intelligent and elegant lyrics and classy Jazz, that is an absolute marvel from start to finish. Although perhaps not a classic Jazz & Poetry project per se, it has many common characteristics with my beloved High Art idiom, shedding some light on the romantic side of the poetry of Ewa LipskaFind albums by this artist, and returns to the splendid work of Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, Wojciech MlynarskiFind albums by this artist, Grzegorz TurnauFind albums by this artist and Andrzej PoniedzielskiFind albums by this artist, all being true wizards of words. Absolutely delightful!
| | Updated: 20/10/2021Posted: 20/10/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HENRYK MISKIEWICZ ~ COME BACK…
POLSKIE RADIO 2454 (Barcode: 5905610873110) ~ POLAND ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024
This is an album by Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded with the Chopin University Big BandFind albums by this artist led and conducted by Piotr KostrzewaFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, ten of which are original compositions by Miskiewicz and one is a standard, all arranged by Miskiewicz. Miskiewicz solos extensively and several of the young band members also get solo spots along the way: keyboardist Tymoteusz HartmanFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Ignacy WendtFind albums by this artist, pianist Stanislaw PantaFind albums by this artist and others. The music was splendidly recorded at the Polish Radio S-4 studio and offers a worm, delightful sound quality and perfect balance and separation.
The music is all well within the mainstream Jazz idiom, based on the excellent compositions by Miskiewicz, which combine great melodic themes and interesting rhythmic flow, all splendidly arranged for the traditional Big Band environment, which offers plenty of soloing space for Miskiewicz and the band members.
This music is meant to pleasant and uplifting, without compromising any aesthetic values, and is performed with taste and precision by the university students under the watchful eye of Kostrzewa, who has been leading the Big Band for many years, fully dedicated to his vision.
Overall, this is a rare opportunity to hear a Big Band album recording by Polish Jazz musicians, as Big Bands are sadly almost impossible to sustain in the harsh economic conditions of today’s music scene. Miskiewicz shows where his well-earned respect and admiration among his peers and the young generation originate from and Kostrzewa can be proud of the band’s performances. Definitely this album is highly recommended to all Jazz Big Band lovers anywhere in the world, as the music is as universal as can be.
| | Updated: 31/07/2024Posted: 31/07/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HENRYK MISKIEWICZ / SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ LYRICS
GRAMI 002 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is an excellent album by veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, accompanied here by the best Polish piano trio called at the time of the recording Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, which consists of pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. There is a family connection of course as Michal is Henryk´s son. The quartet performs seven tunes, four of which are original compositions by the leader, one by Wasilewski, one is a standard and the remaining one is by the US composer Maria SchneiderFind albums by this artist.
Neither Miskiewicz nor Simple Acoustic Trio needs any introductions to people familiar with the Polish Jazz scene; Miskiewicz has been active on the scene since the early 1970s and over time played in several important ensembles like Sun Ship and was member of groups led by many of the leading Polish Jazz musicians as well as leader of his own groups. Simple Acoustic Trio are commonly recognized as the leading Polish piano trio, propelled to fame as the rhythm section on the seminal ECMFind albums on this label recordings by trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and now recording for ECM on their own.
Therefore there are no surprises here as far as the level of performances, which are simply spotless. Miskiewicz plays some great lyrical lines and the support from the trio is simply phenomenal, inventive and daring in some aspects but always solid and within the boundaries specified as the albums motto: music as a device to tell a story in a non-verbal setting. All the compositions selected for this album, original or not, fit the bill perfectly and the overall result is a prime example of intelligent modern mainstream Jazz, which remains fresh and moving in complete disregard of the passing time.
This is definitely an album no Polish Jazz music collector will be able to skip in their collection and a great example of how mainstream Jazz can remain valid and artistically sound today. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAREK NAPIORKOWSKI ~ TROJKA LIVE
POLSKIE RADIO 1914 (Barcode: 5907812249144) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2016
This is a live album recorded at the Polish Radio Studio Three by Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Marek NapiorkowskiFind albums by this artist. The recording captures Napiorkowski in a sextet setting with some of the absolute top Polish Jazz payers: saxophonists Adam PieronczykFind albums by this artist and Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist (who also plays on bass clarinet), pianist Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist (who also plays flute), bassist Robert KubiszynFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist. They perform six original compositions, all by Napiorkowski.
The music is a superb example of modern mainstream Jazz, which combines excellent compositions with perfect execution. Based on beautiful and masterly woven melodic themes, full of romanticism, melancholy and typical Polish mystery, the tunes presented here have been masterly arranged for the sextet by Herdzin, who is celebrated for his ability to create wonderful sonic structures, which are elaborate and highly sophisticated but sound remarkably pleasing.
The lineup selected by Napiorkowski ensured a truly marvelous performance, with all the musicians involved having plenty of opportunity to play extended and expressive solos. The leader delivers his usual, slightly Fusion oriented strings of pearls on his electric guitar, which are, as always, dazzling. He also uses the acoustic guitar no less effectively. The saxophonists have plenty of opportunities to play heartwarming solos, the bass clarinet and flute provide nice atmospheric layers, the piano keeps the harmony together and leads the way and the excellent rhythm section takes care of the pulse, always perfectly on time.
However, the individual performances are only pieces of the puzzle, which, when combined together, creates a much stronger and more satisfying whole. This is one of the best mainstream Jazz ensemble albums I came across lately, which proves that mainstream Jazz can be fulfilling and sophisticated, if talented and dedicated musicians are involved. The arrangements and the team work present here are a classic example of contemporary mainstream Jazz perfection.
As if all this wasn´t enough, the album is also beautifully recorded and considering the fact that this is a live recording, the quality is even more remarkable.
Overall this is a superb modern mainstream album, which offers beautiful compositions and perfect execution, and which should satisfy even the sternest connoisseurs and bring joy to all true Jazz lovers. Hats off!
| | Updated: 29/11/2016Posted: 29/11/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MAREK NAPIORKOWSKI ~ UP!
V 002 (Barcode: 5903111377014) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
Although this is only his fourth album as a leader, Polish guitarist / composer Marek NapiorkowskiFind albums by this artist is one of the most recorded artists on the local scene, being probably the most in-demand session guitarist since many years, which resulted in him taking part in over 140 different albums so far. He played and recorded with many world famous musicians and literally with everybody who is anybody on the local Polish scene; people like Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and Anna Maria JopekFind albums by this artist, to mention just two extremely different environments, which emphasize his legendary diversity and chameleonic ability to suit every musical milieu.
This is by far his most ambitious project so far, which involves eight of his original compositions arranged for a Jazz ensemble and a nine-piece chamber ensemble. The Jazz players are saxophonist Adam PieronczykFind albums by this artist, bass clarinet player Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianist Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert KubiszynFind albums by this artist and American drummer Clarence PennFind albums by this artist. Herdzin was also the man in charge of the arrangements, orchestration and conducting the chamber ensemble, turning him in many respects into the most significant contributor to this album alongside Napiorkowski.
The result is a sophisticated Jazz-Classical Fusion, based on solid melodies and featuring many excellent guitar solos, which floats between energetic up-tempo moods and gentle melancholic themes. Although the individual tunes are not related per se, the overall ambience and atmosphere of the album turns it into a kind of orchestral suite for chamber orchestra and Jazz soloists. The guitar work on this album, both in the acoustic and the electric tonalities, is simply brilliant and for me the best ever achieved by Napiorkowski. Rather than trying to prove his ability as a player, which is already established anyway, Napiorkowski really concentrates on playing music, the essence that so often tends to be forgotten in favor of flashy emptiness.
Herdzin, the Polish musical Wizard of Oz, once again manages to sprinkle his magic all over this music, both as a pianist and of course as the man behind the ornamentation, which makes this music spark and sizzle. Luckily he found the way of balancing the basic Jazz contents and the chamber enhancements, keeping them both intact and coexisting alongside each other rather than mixing them into an undistinguishable mesh, which happens, unfortunately, way to often in such situations. Herdzin is probably the only person on the local scene who can pull this off.
Some listeners might have a problem to identify with this music, which often happens when an Artist changes his established path in search of new means of expression. Perhaps this will be either too Jazzy or not Jazzy enough for some? One can never satisfy everybody and it´s preferable that the Art prevails rather than the attempt to be liked by everyone. This album is a statement by a mature, self-aware musician, who presents his vision, hoping that other can share it with him. I certainly hope many will do so!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR SCHMIDT ~ SAXESFUL
SJ 032 (Barcode: 5912596066658) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018
What is this thing called Jazz? This question seems to reverberate for over a Century now among Jazz musicians, connoisseurs of the genre and scholars of the idiom, with the answer intractably remaining as elusive and mysterious, as the very nature of the music itself. Perhaps the splendor of Jazz is characterized by the inability to define or even properly describe it? Jazz keeps evolving and growing as an Art Form, combining its tradition with new discoveries and innovation, which soon after become part of the essence of the same Jazz idiom, in a perpetuum mobile like fashion.
Polish Jazz, one of the most vital and ingenious local scenes on the world scale, which started while the country was still isolated from the rest of the world by the Iron Curtain, managed to flourish and explode artistically over the years, against all odds. Today Poland is a Jazz Super Power, leading the European Jazz scene in every aspect, all thanks to the seemingly inexhaustible influx of young and talented musicians, who treat their Jazz as seriously as their life.
Piotr SchmidtFind albums by this artist (born 1985) is certainly one of those Polish Jazz mavericks. Not only is he well educated, talented and ambitious, but he is also a restless entrepreneur, record label owner, bandleader and educator who keeps constantly coming up with new ideas, maintaining his Jazz alive and kicking. This album is only one of such ideas, but the scale and audacity required to put such a project into life can be understood only by the cognoscenti of the Jazz scene.
This album is a multilayered tribute to the Jazz tradition. It presents seven classic Jazz standards, each performed by the core quartet and featuring a different saxophonist. The list of the saxophonists reads like the who´s who of Polish Jazz and is also an obvious tribute to Polish Jazz itself. With their ages ranging from Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist (born 1936), Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist (born 1939), Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist (born 1951), Maciej SikalaFind albums by this artist (born 1961), Piotr BaronFind albums by this artist (born 1961), Adam WendtFind albums by this artist (born 1962) and finally Grzech PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist (born 1974), i.e. four generations of Polish Jazz players, they represent the incredible power and stylistic versatility of the scene. The core quartet is by no means less impressive, featuring Schmidt on trumpet, pianist Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist and Poland´s top rhythm section comprised of bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof GradziukFind albums by this artist, all of which have a most impressive list of achievements under their arms.
But tributes and history aside, this album is also a wonderful collection of great tunes, beautifully performed and entertaining, in the most positive meaning of the word. Jazz is, after all, also a source of unadulterated pleasure to those, who love it, and this album is certainly a concentrated dose of such pleasure. Enjoy!
Adam Baruch, August 2018
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: 19/09/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR SCHMIDT ~ SAXESFUL VOL II
SJ 056 (Barcode: 5902596066703) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2021
It’s not a secret that when recording an album, the producer often “thinks ahead” and takes the opportunity of the studio sessions already in place to record much more material than actually needed to complete one album. This is exactly the case with the recording sessions for the album “SaxesfulFind albums with this title”, which took place in 2018, recorded by Polish Jazz trumpeter, composer, bandleader, record label owner and producer Piotr SchmidtFind albums by this artist.
Following the hiatus of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent passing of Piotr’s Father, Prof. Andrzej SchmidtFind albums by this artist, an iconic figure on the Polish Jazz scene, whom I had a great pleasure to meet many a time, Piotr decided to return to the unreleased material from the “Saxesful” sessions and release a follow up album with that material, among other things to commemorate his Father’s memory.
The concept of “Saxesful” was to present a series of Polish Jazz saxophonists, each playing on a different track. This second volume does exactly the same, presenting six classic Jazz standards, each performed by the core quartet and featuring a different saxophonist. The list of the saxophonists reads like the who´s who of Polish Jazz and is also an obvious tribute to Polish Jazz itself. With their ages ranging from Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist (born 1936), Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist (born 1939), Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist (born 1951), Maciej SikalaFind albums by this artist (born 1961), Adam WendtFind albums by this artist (born 1962) and finally Grzech PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist (born 1974), i.e. four generations of Polish Jazz players, they represent the incredible power and stylistic versatility of the scene. The core quartet is by no means less impressive, featuring Schmidt on trumpet, pianist Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist and Poland´s top rhythm section comprised of bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof GradziukFind albums by this artist, all of which have a most impressive list of achievements under their arms.
My Grandmother loved to quote the Polish proverb, which says: ”Those, who eat the leftovers are smooth and beautiful” (In Polish: “Kto zjada ostatki, ten jest piękny i gładki”). The meaning of this proverb is, that leftovers are as good, if not better, than the original food and should not be discarded, which applies exactly to the music on this album in every sense, and it would have been a shame to leave this music unreleased.
Once again we have here a feast great classic Jazz music and first rate performances, which is a tribute to the genre itself, Polish Jazz history and tradition and a great listening experience. Enjoy!
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 30/08/2021Posted: 30/08/2021 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ TALKING GUITAR (POLISH JAZZ VOL.93 DELUXE)
MUZA 1093 (Barcode: 5907783420931) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2007
This is an excellent debut album as a leader by Polish guitarist / composer Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, presenting a set of ten original compositions performed by a superb team of musicians, including his ex-cohorts from the Extra BallFind albums by this artist ensemble. The list of names reads like a who’s who of the local scene at the time and includes keyboardist Wojciech GroborzFind albums by this artist, bassist Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist, percussionist Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist and Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist (father and son), trombonist Roman SyrekFind albums by this artist and flautist Jan BaytelFind albums by this artist. The music is all Fusion oriented, with great melody lines. Smietana plays some excellent solos and is well supported by his partners. Overall this is mainstream Fusion, which ruled in the 1980s, so one must not expect complexity and innovation in what is supposed to be “good time” music, which it certainly is. The level of professionalism and talent expected from Polish Jazz are certainly there. Recommended to Fusion fans!
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  | KUBA STANKIEWICZ ~ NORTHERN SONG
INTRO 004 (Barcode: 5907592167034) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1993
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Kuba StankiewiczFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist. It presents nine tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Stankiewicz and two are standards. Stankiewicz started his career in the mid 1980s as a member of Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist´s group at the time, recording with him two albums. In the late 1980s he studied at the Berklee Collage of Music in Boston and upon his return to Poland formed the quartet which recorded this album. Over time he established for himself a leading position on the local Jazz scene as composer, arranger, performer and educator.
This album presents melodic mainstream Jazz, executed with flair and perfection by a quartet of highly talented and experienced players, who continue the tradition of Polish Jazz established three decades earlier with a mixture of American Jazz tradition at its best and European lyricism and elegance combined into an irresistible swinging and sparkling Jazz presentation. The individual performances by all quartet members are truly outstanding. Miskiewicz plays with his usual fluency and melodic smoothness, which makes him one of the best players on the scene. The rhythm section is also right where it belongs, with the bass supporting the melody lines on one hand and stating the rhythmic pulse on the other and the drums keep perfect time without being obtrusive.
But it is Stankiewicz, who is at the center of the listener´s attention, both as a player and a composer. His beautiful tunes sound remarkably "familiar" even at the first encounter, which of course is a sign of perfect harmonic balance and melodic excellence that characterizes all great Jazz pieces. His piano playing is another proof of his sublime sensitivity and feel for Jazz, which is immediately apparent. It is hardly surprising that this album won the "Album of the Year" title at the time of its release, over twenty years before these notes are being written.
In retrospect it is quite clear that great music ages well, and this album sounds as relevant and exciting today as it did at the time it was recorded. Although it is rooted in the mainstream tradition, it presents the best side of the tradition, which is simply eternal. Listening to this album should be pleasurable to every true Jazz connoisseur, anywhere on this planet, as it is simply one of those gems that are always worth revisiting.
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  | LORA SZAFRAN ~ EWA DEMARCZYK: INSPIRACJE
POLSKIE RADIO 2444 (Barcode: 5905610871109) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by veteran Polish Jazz vocalist Lora SzafranFind albums by this artist, supported by a formidable team of instrumentalists, fronted by pianist / arranger Milosz WoskoFind albums by this artist, drummer Sebastian FrankiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam KowalewskiFind albums by this artist and others. She also invited three guest: vocalist Aga ZaryanFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and accordionist Jaroslaw BesterFind albums by this artist, who appear on selected tracks. The album presents ten tracks, all being songs associated with the repertoire of the Polish Diva Ewa DemarczykFind albums by this artist, six of which were composed by the legendary Zygmunt KoniecznyFind albums by this artist, two by Andrzej ZaryckiFind albums by this artist and the remaining two by others. The lyrics are mostly by renown Polish Poets, like Julian TuwimFind albums by this artist and others.
Any attempt to touch an icon / legend / idol of the class of Demarczyk is a highly risky and virtually impossible task. Although the new arrangements of these songs, which are taken more into the Jazz environment, rather than the original chanson / theatrical idiom created matchlessly by Demarczyk, the comparisons are inevitable, and sadly come out rather oddly in the ears of anybody familiar with the original.
Of course one has to give credit to the new arrangements and the excellent work by the instrumentalists involved, as well as Szafran’s vocal abilities and the throaty coloring of her voice, all of which are truly admirable. Still, the mind does not allow to separate oneself from the deeply seeded impressions and memories of the original. Some things are obviously better left alone…
Overall, this is an impressive production / arrangement / execution in every respect, but I am simply too old to let my personal memories be forgotten, which is apparently needed in order to enjoy this album, beyond appreciating the effort. Of course these songs are still absolute treasures of Polish Culture.
| | Updated: 29/12/2023Posted: 29/12/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ WODECKI JAZZ `70 - DIALOGI
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 5904204733700) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Pop Fusion
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is a tribute album dedicated to the music of Polish singer / songwriter / musician Zbigniew WodeckiFind albums by this artist. Initiated by his daughter Kasia Wodecka-StubbsFind albums by this artist, this highly unusual project consists of archival original recordings by Wodecki made in the 1970s, original recordings overdubbed by parts added especially for this project and finally contemporary arrangements of Wodecki’s compositions recorded for this project. Some top Polish Jazz musicians take part in this project: saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianists Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist and Michal TokajFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek NapiorkowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Michal BaranskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist.
Obviously the idea behind the project is to show the proximity and affinity Wodecki obviously held for Jazz music, proposing a “what if” alternative, which speculates how his music might have developed in a “parallel universe”, in which he would have chosen Jazz and not Popular Music as his main field of activity.
The album shows Wodecki’s superb sense of melody, which of course is no surprise to any Polish music fun, and his wonderful compositional skills, which made his compositions timeless and borderless, paving the way for the arrangements present on this album to sound completely natural, as if the music was composed today. The arrangers and musicians performing on the album are all veterans and Masters of their trade, so it’s not a surprise that the music sounds wonderful and is overall a highly enjoyable listening experience.
Of course it is important to keep the music in the correct context, which is all about Jazz arrangements of Popular music, resulting in music suitable for a wide audience and therefore obviously on the easier side of the Jazz spectrum. Nevertheless, the soloists and the wonderful rhythm section do exactly what is best for the music, except perhaps for Mozdzer, whose overdose of sugar-coating is, as usual, exaggerated.
Overall this is a highly unusual, ambitious and emotional project, which sheds new light on Wodecki’s legacy and contribution to Polish Culture, which is accessible to a wide audience, not necessarily only to Jazz buffs, but all lovers of Wodecki’s wonderful music. Well done!
| | Updated: 28/07/2021Posted: 28/07/2021 | CD 1 Digipak 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!
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  | JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI ~ MOI PIERWSI MISTRZOWIE
BOOGIE 007 (Barcode: 5903292108902) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is a live recording by one of Polish Jazz Godfathers, saxophonist / composer Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and his sextet, which also includes trumpeter Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist, pianist Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Marcin JahrFind albums by this artist, all renowned Polish Jazz musicians. As the album´s title suggests, Wroblewski (born 1936) pays tribute to three Polish Jazz icons, with whom he played as a young musician: Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist (born 1931), Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist (born 1933) and Andrzej KurylewiczFind albums by this artist (born 1932). Sadly all three are no longer with us. Of the six tracks on the album, three were composed by Komeda, two by Trzaskowski and one by Kurylewicz. In the liner notes Wroblewski lists the many differences between these three legendary figures and his personal experiences from the encounters with them.
The music is kept well within the mainstream modern Jazz idiom, perfectly and flawlessly performed by all the musicians involved, but somehow lacking the excitement and exhilaration one might expect but such classy company and such ambitious task. The arrangements of the remarkable compositions presented herein are also not in par with the expectations, especially the Komeda tunes, which sound as if they were simplified and sound way too "smooth" in comparison to their original form, as intended by the composer.
Overall this is a first class collection of classic Polish Jazz compositions, played by a highly professional sextet, which sadly fails to reach the level of depth and sincerity these tunes deserve. Of course mainstream Jazz enthusiasts will find this album to be perfectly adequate, but for me a feeling of a missed opportunity is lingering as this music plays in the background. The individual solo spots, which are quite impressive in some cases, fail to save the day. I´m sure Wroblewski and his cohorts will rise to the challenge again next time.
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