Record Reviews
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  | AALTONEN, HELASVUO, HAUTA-AHO, VESALA / EDWARD VESALA ENSEMBLE ~ JAZZ LIISA VOL. 17 & VOL. 18
SVART 100 (Barcode: 6430065583516) ~ FINLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1974 Released: 2018
The two "Jazzstudio" broadcasts compiled on this CD focus on the iconic figure of drummer / composer / bandleader and Godfather of modern Finnish Jazz, Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, who is probably the most famous Finnish Jazz musician outside of his native country. Born in 1945, Vesala was active on the local Jazz scene since the late 1960s and until his tragically premature death in 1999 at the ridiculous young age of 54. His premiere recording was the little known album "NykysuomalaistaFind albums with this title" (Contemporary Finnish) from 1969 and the full debut "NanaFind albums with this title" came a year later. In 1972 he took part in his first ECMFind albums on this label album, the Jan Garbarek´s "TriptykonFind albums with this title" and soon after recorded his debut album for the label "Nan MadolFind albums with this title". He recorded five more albums for ECM and also participated on albums by Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. On the whole he left an impressive recorded legacy, including releases on his own LeoFind albums on this label Records.
The first session presents the Edward Vesala trio, with bassist Teppo Hauta-AhoFind albums by this artist and pianist Esa HelasvuoFind albums by this artist on one track composed by him and then with saxophonist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist (who replaces Helasvuo) on two tracks, both composed by Vesala. Whereas the first track is still pretty conventional, the two other tracks are mostly freely improvised and explode with energy and spontaneous exploration as appropriate for Avant-garde at its best.
The second session presents the Edward Vesala EnsembleFind albums by this artist, a collection of top Finnish Jazz improvisers at the time: trumpeter Simo SalminenFind albums by this artist, trombonist Mircea StanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Juhani Aaltonen, Paroni PaakkunainenFind albums by this artist and Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist, bassist Teppo Hauta-Aho, electric bassist Make LievonenFind albums by this artist and Antero HonkanenFind albums by this artist who added some electronic effects on one track. This lineup is very similar to the lineup that recorded the a.m. ECM debut a few months after this session was recorded. They play three stacks, all by Vesala, all of which were later recorded for that album. In addition a short interview with Vesala in also present, in Finnish of course, which makes it sadly accessible only to Finnish speaking audience. (A transcript in English would have been most welcome).
The music is spectacular and breathtaking, a true Avant-garde masterpiece combining composed and group-improvised parts, mystic Nordic moods and brilliant performances by these excellent musicians. These versions of the material are quite different from the recorded versions, which makes this session especially valuable.
These two sessions are some of the most important documents of Finnish Jazz and are definitely among the strongest releases in the entire Jazz Liisa series.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for European Jazz connoisseurs this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 19/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUHANI AALTONEN ~ ETIQUETTE
LOVE 119 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974
Debut album by one of the greatest European jazz players - Finnish virtuoso Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist. The album presents Aaltonen`s incredible range of instruments: tenor and alto saxophones and a wide selection of flutes, all of which he handles with exquisite elegance and total control. The settings vary from solo to quintet and the music is European free jazz - intelligent, sophisticated, provocative and beautifully structured. Other superb Finnish musicians, including the legendary Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist on drums and the divine Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist, who is (for me) one of the best bass players on this planet, accompany the leader. This music is typical of European free jazz in the early 1970`s, when cross-country cooperation flourished. Aaltonen and Vesala were used to play with German, Polish and other European musicians, swapping influences, ideas and cultural backgrounds and creating a new amalgam of the jazz Art Form, which was aeons ahead of its time and remains the most advanced achievement of the genre to this day. This album is an absolute must for people with two ears and any substance between them.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JUHANI AALTONEN / OTTO DONNER ~ STRINGS
LOVE 160 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Don`t let the album`s title fool you – this is by no means one of those sugary “jazz & strings” albums – no way. This is a masterpiece created by Finland`s greatest jazz player – Aaltonen - and greatest jazz composer / arranger – Donner, designed as an exercise in “easy listening”. Of course the “easy listening” those two gentlemen create is anything but easy! Donner composed a series of compositions, which serve as a basis for Aaltonen`s beautiful improvisations. The “background” music is performed by some of the best Finnish jazzmen at the time, including Esko Linnavalli on electric piano and Esko Rosnell on drums, with intricate string arrangements. Aaltonen plays “on top” of these compositions, sometimes very melodically, sometimes quite freely, with a wonderful passion and superb zest. This is heavenly music, which remains with you for lifetime and unveils new layers of pleasure every time.
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | OLLI AHVENLAHTI / UMO ~ SEAWINDS: THE COMPLETE YLE STUDIO RECORDINGS 1976-1981
SVART 171 (Barcode: 6430065583486) ~ FINLAND ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1976 - 1981 Released: 2018
This is an archival album collecting all the recordings by Finnish keyboardist / composer Olli AhvenlahtiFind albums by this artist recorded with the superb UMOFind albums by this artist Jazz Orchestra for the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company). The album presents fifteen tracks, including the five-part "Seawinds" suite, which gave the album its title. All the music was composed and arranged by Ahvenlahti.
UMO, founded in 1975, turned out to be Finland´s most renowned Jazz Big Band / Orchestra, active to this very day. Over the years its ranks included the absolute who’s who of the Finnish Jazz scene, as well as numerous international guests, and produced a remarkable recording legacy.
On these recordings the UMO was in its early days, but already offered a remarkable level of professionalism and talent, as well as a typical European approach to the Big Band Jazz sound and style. It included such formidable players as saxophonists Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist, Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist and Paroni PaakkunainenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Kaj BacklundFind albums by this artist, trombonist Mircea StanFind albums by this artist, pianist Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist, bassists Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist and Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist, drummer Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist and many others. Ahvenlahti played keyboards and the orchestra was conducted by Esko LinnavalliFind albums by this artist. Three of the tracks feature the wonderful vocalist Irina MilanFind albums by this artist, singing music composed to Finnish poetry.
The music is beautifully melodic and at the same time complex enough to keep the listener on his toes. The superb Big Band arrangements and wonderful soloing turns this album into an excellent listening experience, which is fresh and full of youthful energy with a slight Fusion tinge. All the sections of the Big Band are perfectly utilized to create a big sound, but the listener is able to hear each individual; instrument. The excellent rhythm section drives the music forward with zest and elegance.
Overall this is a great Big Band Jazz album that lost nothing of its power and freshness over time and sounds every bit as exciting as it did at the time of the recording. For European Big Band Jazz fans this is a true feast and for the many UMO followers around the world this is an absolute must have. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 12/07/2020Posted: 12/07/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BROTZMANN / AALTONEN / KOWALD / VESALA ~ HOT LOTTA
SVART 253 (Barcode: 6430065584575) ~ FINLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the iconic album by the German / Finnish Free Jazz quartet, a one time cooperation formed as a result of a Finnish tour organized by the Goethe Institut for the two German musicians: saxophonist Peter BrotzmannFind albums by this artist and bassist Peter KowaldFind albums by this artist, joined by Finnish Free Jazz pioneers: saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. The original album, which offered just four tracks, is remastered and expanded by a sensational and previously unavailable live radio session, adding five tracks and almost doubling the original album´s playing time. All the music is of course original, and although credited to individual quartet members, it is mostly spontaneously created by the players.
At the time of the recording the German musicians were already Free Jazz "veterans", with the German Avant-Garde already flourishing for a few good years, and Brotzmann gaining already a legendary status with his brazing innovations and complete disregard of conventions. Aaltonen and Vesala started to play Free Jazz just about a couple years earlier, recording the first Finnish Free Jazz album "NanaFind albums with this title". When the tour and the recording of this album happened, Vesala already recorded the "TriptyconFind albums with this title" album with Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist for the ECMFind albums on this label label and a year later would record "Nan MadolFind albums with this title", his first ECM release.
The music is, as expected, absolutely stunning and completely fresh, sounding better than most Free Jazz played five decades later, which is not able to reproduce the spontaneity, group improvisation and telepathic communication between the musicians. Aaltonen´s flute parts are especially interesting, as flute is relatively rarely used in Improvised Music, surely at the time. The unusual double saxophone lineup is also a factor in making this album so outstanding.
Overall this is a quintessential piece of European Avant-Garde / Free Jazz history, which is sadly little known due to the obscurity of this album, which reaches astronomical prices on the vinyl market these days. Therefore this reissue is an absolute marvel and again kudos is due to the SvartFind albums on this label label for their amazing work in keeping the Cultural legacy alive.
Obviously this is an absolute must to all European Free Jazz connoisseurs anywhere on this planet. Essential listening!
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 28/06/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | GRAHAM COLLIER ~ HOARDED DREAMS
CUNEIFORM 252 (Barcode: 045775025223) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2007
This extraordinary album contains a previously unreleased recording of Graham CollierFind albums by this artist’s Big Band performance of his suite “Hoarded Dreams”. The music was commissioned by the Arts Council of Great Britain (UK Government body that over the years faithfully supported UK Jazz scene and provided endless opportunities for UK musicians to compose and record) for the 1983 edition of the Bracknell Jazz Festival. For the occasion Collier assembled a spectacular Big Band (including 19 musicians), which he conducted. The players are a multi-national creme de la creme of European Jazz, with such distinguished names as Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist (Poland), Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist (Finland), John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (UK), Manfred SchoofFind albums by this artist (Germany), etc. This awesome personnel ensures that the performance is truly stellar, with soaring solos and endless display of virtuosity and collective interplay. The brilliant music, suiting elegantly and perfectly the purpose of providing solo space for such a broad group of instrumentalist proves again that Collier is undoubtedly one of the true Giants composers of Modern Jazz of the caliber of Charles MingusFind albums by this artist. Absolutely stunning!
See also the Garahm Collier album released on Jazzis Records
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | OTTO DONNER TREATMENT ~ EN SOISI SEN PÄÄTTYVÄN
LOVE 014 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Finns have not only great respect for their musicians, but also for their poets and therefore they produced a large body of work where music and poetry are combined. This is one of such projects for which the composer / arranger Otto DonnerFind albums by this artist created music to poems by Pentti SaarikoskiFind albums by this artist to be performed by a vocal group and jazz ensemble. Recorded in 1970, this excellent example of Finnish jazz includes some of the best players on the local scene at the time (Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist - tenor sax & flute, Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist - drums, a.m.o.). Donner plays trumpet & vibes and directs the whole project.
The music is typical European jazz of the period, melodic but complex and constantly surprising. The composer also cleverly includes shades of Finnish folk music in the background of the compositions. The album includes 18 short pieces, all quite different, but flowing naturally into one coherent suite. The group vocals resemble the European vocal jazz tradition as demonstrated by the French group Les Double SixFind albums by this artist or NOVIFind albums by this artist from Poland. Sublime music for people with highly developed and sensitive taste glands.
| | Updated: 08/06/2020Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FINNFOREST ~ ALPHA TO OMEGA: THE COMPLETE STUDIO RECORDINGS 1973-1980
SVART 056 (Barcode: 6430065585435) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1973 - 1980 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the collected studio recordings by the Finnish Progressive Rock / Fusion ensemble FinnforestFind albums by this artist. It includes the remastered versions of the three LPs recorded by Finnforest and released on the legendary LoveFind albums on this label Records label: "FinnforestFind albums with this title" (1975), "Lahto MatkalleFind albums with this title" (1976) and "DemonnightsFind albums with this title" (1979). Additionally two singles, one compilation track and two previously unissued recording sessions, one before the debut album (1973) and another after the last album (1980), are also included. Beautifully packaged and with in depth liner notes this 3 CD set is a proper tribute to this great band.
Finnforest was formed in 1973 by twin brothers Pekka TegelmanFind albums by this artist, who played guitar and Jussi TegelmanFind albums by this artist, who played drums. The early version of the band included also keyboardist Jukka RissanenFind albums by this artist, bassist Jarmo HiekkalaFind albums by this artist and vocalist Ari MustonenFind albums by this artist. This quintet lineup plays on the six early tracks recorded in 1973.
The first album was recorded in Sweden in 1975 just by the trio of Tegelman brothers and Jukka Rissanen. The second album was also recorded in Sweden a year later, and featured the Tegelman brothers, Hiekkala on bass and keyboardist Jukka LinkolaFind albums by this artist, Second keyboardist Pertti PokkiFind albums by this artist plays on two tracks and a string section conducted by Otto DonnerFind albums by this artist plays on one track. The third album was recorded in 1978 and features only Jussi Tegelman from the original lineup and the rest are all new members: keyboardist Jarmo SavolainenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jari RissanenFind albums by this artist, bassist Tuomo HelinFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist. Pekka Tegelman plays only on some of the tracks. The last session features all new musicians playing with Jussi Tegelman. All the music present on this set, except for one track, was composed by one or the other of the Tegelman brothers.
The early tracks are typical proto-Prog but starting with the tracks on the first album the music becomes absolutely stunning, with complex compositions and lengthy improvisations, slowly moving from Symphonic Prog into Jazz-Rock Fusion, with even more daring and challenging musical excursions.
In retrospect it is clear that Finnforest were one of the most important European Prog groups in the 1970s, creating some of the most exciting music that came out of Finland at the time, despite the fact that they had fierce competition as Finland at the time produced incredible amount of fascinating music. It is great to see these classic albums back in circulation and the bonus tracks are always a welcome incentive. This is definitely a must have for all true Prog and Fusion collectors from around the world.
| | Updated: 02/07/2020Posted: 02/07/2020 | CD 3 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | EERO KOIVISTOINEN ~ MUUSA JA RUUSA
SVART 049 (Barcode: 6430050666866) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2016
This is a reissue of a delightful and little known Jazz & Poetry project (this time intended for children) by Finnish composer / saxophonist Eero KoivistoinenFind albums by this artist who wrote the music to poems by Finnish poetess Kirsi KunnaksenFind albums by this artist. He enlisted a group of great vocalists and musicians to realize this album, which include vocalists Vesa-Matti LoiriFind albums by this artist and Eero RaittinenFind albums by this artist, bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Hasse WalliFind albums by this artist, drummer Esko RosnellFind albums by this artist, pianist Eero OjanenFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and many others. The album presents thirteen tracks, three of which are instrumentals and ten have poems as lyrics. All the music and arrangements are by Koivistoinen. This remastered edition offers also the texts of the poems and exact lineup of all the tracks as well as a nice (bilingual) article about the whole project.
Although obviously not a bona fide Jazz project, this album is a great document of Koivistoinen openness and diversity as a musician and composer. Exposing young children to quality music is a crucial part of their Cultural education, a fact that is almost completely neglected today with children being fed absolute infantile rubbish in the media. This album, almost fifty years old, is better and more challenging than most of what passes al children´s music today.
In retrospect this stuff sounds fresh and exciting today, completely contemporary. Even listeners not familiar with the Finnish language should be able to enjoy these fabulous musical stories and get intuitively what they are all about.
Overall this is a wonderful example of the ingenuity of Koivistoinen and the entire Finnish Jazz scene at the time, full of love and understanding of the young souls. Still delightful!
| | Updated: 09/07/2020Posted: 09/07/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE KOSKINEN ORCHESTRA / OTTO DONNER TREATMENT ~ JAZZ LIISA VOL. 09 & VOL. 10
SVART 033 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2016
Trumpeter / composer / bandleader Mike KoskinenFind albums by this artist was one of the most prominent figures on the Finnish Jazz scene in the early to mid 1970s, involved in a wide rage of stylistic explorations, from Free Jazz to more conventional post Bebop. He was one of the first Finnish Jazz musicians to study at the Berklee College of Music. He released his debut album "SunwebsFind albums with this title" on 1976 and moved to the US a year later.
This live radio broadcast presents Koskinen leading two ensembles, an octet and a big orchestra, which include the crème de la crème of the Finnish Jazz scene at the time: trombonists Mircea StanFind albums by this artist, Petri JuutilainenFind albums by this artist and Raimo NaatanenFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Kaj BacklundFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, Paroni PaakkunainenFind albums by this artist, Pentti LahtiFind albums by this artist, Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist and Teemu SalminenFind albums by this artist, pianist Olli AhvenlahtiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Otto BergerFind albums by this artist, bassists Teppo Hauta-AhoFind albums by this artist and Heikki VirtanenFind albums by this artist, drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist and percussionist Ari ValtonenFind albums by this artist.
They perform five compositions (three by the octet and two by the orchestra) four of which are original compositions by Koskinen and one is an arrangement of a Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist tune. The music portrays the diversity of Koskinen musical interests, with almost straightforward Jazz pieces and Free / Improvised orchestral experimentations, which are the more challenging and in retrospect interesting.
Composer / arranger / bandleader / trumpeter Otto DonnerFind albums by this artist is one of the Godfathers of Finnish Jazz and one of the greatest European Jazz composers. His ensemble Otto Donner TreatmentFind albums by this artist changed lineups according to specific project requirements and the large orchestral lineup caught on this live radio broadcast is sadly not fully known, but includes trumpeter Markku JohanssonFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Christer BoustedFind albums by this artist, Juhani Aaltonen (who also plays flute) and Paroni Paakkunainen, pianist Esko LinnavalliFind albums by this artist and others.
They perform four original compositions by Donner, which feature Bousted and Aaltonen as the primary soloists. The music is absolutely delightful and reflects Donner´s talents as composer and arranger, as well as the incredible level of musicianship by his band members. As everything else recorded by Donner, this is a first class musical gem.
Overall this is some of the most staggering music created in Europe in the early to mid 1970s that one is able to hear and for European Jazz connoisseurs this is an absolute must have!
Side Note
The Finnish independent label SvartFind albums on this label Records released an unprecedented series of albums called Pop Liisa and Jazz Liisa, which present priceless historical recordings of Finnish Rock, Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz music, recorded live and broadcasted from the Liisankatu Studios in Helsinki under the "Popstudio" and "Jazzstudio" monikers between 1972 and 1977. The studios were owned by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), a public broadcasting service, which not only allowed the burgeoning Finnish music scene at the time to be exposed but also carefully archived the recordings for future generations. All this incredible music was previously unissued and collectively is probably the most important document of Finnish music from that period ever assembled.
The music was released on 36 LPs (Pop Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18 and Jazz Liisa Vol. 01 to Vol. 18) and on 18 CDs with every two consecutive volumes combined on one CD.
The sound quality is absolutely superb, often better than the sound quality on the LPs released by these artists at the time. Many of the groups appearing on these albums never managed to record an album and these recordings are the only recorded legacy in existence of their activity. The released are accompanied by well researched and intelligent liner notes.
This archival project is an outstanding example of how Cultural Legacy should be treated as well as of exemplary dedication to record producing professionalism.
| | Updated: 08/06/2020Posted: 08/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | VERNERI POHJOLA ~ AURORA
TEXICALI 094 (Barcode: 6417698090949) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
This is the debut album as a leader by Finnish Jazz trumpeter / composer Verneri PohjolaFind albums by this artist conceived and recorded over an extended period of time by several lineups, which feature many top Finnish Jazz musicians, including Verneri´s father bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist brother trombonist Ilmari PohjolaFind albums by this artist, as well as legendary flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and a string quartet. The album presents eight tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Verneri and one is an arrangement of "Concierto de Aranjuez" by Joaquin RodrigoFind albums by this artist (which trumpeters seem to favor). The album was released following Pekka´s death and is dedicated to him.
The music is quite diverse and offers a wide range of moods and stylistic references, and accordingly also challenges for the trumpet performances. It encompasses Classical Music influences as well as Jazz in all its forms from deeply melodic and typically Nordic climates to free form vistas. Although the music does not focus on a specific concept, it consistently shows a coherent compositional ability and aesthetics, which is rate for musicians that young.
The performances are, as expected, stellar in every way. Verneri´s trumpet soars high and confident throughout the proceedings and the accompanying musicians create an ideal environment to support the often complex ideas. There are so many details and individual touches on this album that it requires several listening sessions to discover them all, with each and every one of those being highly deserving.
Overall this is an excellent debut outing, which was (in retrospect) a good omen of things to come. Finnish Jazz managed to sustain and develop its superb level of accomplishments for the last half a century, always being one of my favorites and proudly representing the European Jazz capabilities at their best. Although not new, this album surely deserves the effort of finding a copy and plunge into its music, as it is definitely timeless.
| | Updated: 22/01/2021Posted: 22/01/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HEIKKI SARMANTO SERIOUS MUSIC ENSEMBLE ~ A BOSTON DATE
PORTER 4002 (Barcode: 656605854625) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
This is one of those albums, which immediately invoke the recurring question: "How many recordings like this one remain hidden and unreleased all over the world?" The fact that it took 38 years for this gem to surface is criminally negligent, to put it mildly, with the only solace being the proverbial better late than never. Finnish pianist / composer Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist has been one of my favorite musicians for the last four decades, always awe-inspiring and never disappointing. His life-time achievements indisputably deserve a book-sized biography (unfortunately not written yet) and his role as Europe´s leading Jazz personality and a prominent creator of the emancipated European Jazz is sadly little known outside of a tiny circle of connoisseurs and researches. In fact the entire Finnish music scene often appears to be the one of world´s best hidden secrets, which is amazing in view of the miraculous contribution of Finnish musicians and composers to the Pantheon of the overall human musical culture. Apparently even the most devoted music fans and critics often suffer from chronic narrow-mindedness and Xenophobia, with Americans leading the camp, with pride and remarkable consistency, over the years.
Although recorded in 1970, this session does not reflect Sarmanto´s early musical steps. He was 31 years old at the time and already a seasoned musician, with extensive Classical Music education (a graduate of the Helsinki Sibelius Music Academy - the country´s most prestigious musical education institution) and extensive Jazz experience going back almost a decade earlier as member of several Jazz ensembles active on the country´s burgeoning scene. In 1964-65 Sarmanto took part in the recording of Finland´s first modern Jazz album, the legendary "The Modern Sound Of FinlandFind albums with this title" by saxophonist / flautist Esa PethmanFind albums by this artist, and his piano playing on that album already sounds refined and focused. In 1968 Sarmanto was the first Finn to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, which gave him a chance to get some formal Jazz education (the Jazz department of the Sibelius Academy would be established only in the early 1980s, and of course Sarmanto would be appointed its first department head).
Sarmanto used his time in Boston not only to expand his formal Jazz horizons, but also to mingle and play as much as he could on the local Jazz scene, which was quite active at the time. The Berklee students and the local musicians often gigged together and soon enough ensembles were formed. Following a brief home visit in 1969, during which Sarmanto recorded his first album as a leader, a live sextet recording released as "Flowers In The WaterFind albums with this title" (on which Pethman is also featured), he returned to Boston to "wrap up" his Berklee affairs. During that period he formed the quintet, quite accidently, which is often the best way for things to happen, which is featured on this semi-professional recording. The quintet consists of Sarmanto on piano, another Finnish giant, saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, who followed Sarmanto to Berklee but lasted only one semester (without a grant the finances were just against all odds), Czech bassists George MrazFind albums by this artist, who also arrived in Boston on a Berklee grant (together with compatriot pianist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist), escaping the brutal Warsaw Pact forces invasion of their homeland, following the brief "Spring of Prague" in 1969, the first major crack in the Berlin Wall. The remaining two musicians were guitarist Lance GundersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Craig HerndonFind albums by this artist, both Bostonians at the time. The quintet was nicknamed, half-jokingly, The Serious Music EnsembleFind albums by this artist, a name which would stick to several Sarmanto´s groups in the future, featuring the core of this quintet.
The three Europeans and two Americans obviously had no difficulty in communicating musically, and it´s hardly surprising that they chose to play mostly Free Form, for several reasons. The air was still reverberating with the sounds of Albert AylerFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, with the US Free Jazz scene at its peak by the end of the 1960s (unfortunately soon to be almost completely neglected, passing the torch to the Europeans). The limited, if any, rehearsal time the ensemble had before entering the studio, obviously left most of the content to be developed at the spur of the moment, making collective improvisation the only logical path to follow. And perhaps the youthful spirit of rebellion had also something to do with it, considering Berklee´s extreme conservatism, which is legendary even today. Aaltonen, the oldest and most experienced musician on board, already had extensive Free Jazz practice, after playing with Finnish pioneers of the genre, most notably with drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist, and his contributions are the most consistent, with remarkable power of expression, intensity and technical brilliance rivaling the Masters of the genre.
The six pieces played during the session, all composed by Sarmanto, are performed in one continuous flow with no gaps between them. Typically, after a briefly stated theme, the musicians enter a series of exchanges, with one, two or even three players soloing simultaneously, with the rhythm section frequently changing the tempo. Most of the material is up-tempo, except for the beautiful ballad, which ends the set (dedicated to Margareth ChaloffFind albums by this artist, the legendary piano teacher), which is the gentlest and most structured piece on the album, featuring the exquisite bass work by Mraz and more typical of Sarmanto´s future output. In many respects the session is quite typical European Free Jazz, resembling many similar musical encounters happening in Europe at the time, especially in the UK, but also in Poland, Germany and the Netherlands. It is quite distinctly different from American Free Jazz, which demonstrates rawer and more spontaneous approach but lacks the European Classical Music background, which is deeply implanted in the minds of European musicians, evident even in the most extreme Improvised Music experiments. In many respects, this session is probably one of the most "European sounding" recordings ever captured at a US studio.
It is really interesting to compare this session with the material recorded by the almost identical quintet (exchange Mraz with Heikki´s brother bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist) just a few months later and released as Sarmanto´s second (first studio) album "CounterbalanceFind albums with this title" (also reissued on PorterFind albums on this label Records). With Aaltonen playing exclusively flute and Sarmanto switching to Fender Rhodes, this seems to be a completely different group, even if still pretty much in the Free vain. The European influence simply becomes overwhelming, changing the music dramatically. Even if the sound quality of this recording is not up to modern digital standards (the recording was most probably not intended to be commercially released), the musical content and the immense historical importance of this session make it an indispensible document of the highest value.
Kudos to Luke MoslingFind albums by this artist, the brave owner of Porter Records, for releasing this treasure and making it available to us, the music lovers, and saving a lost gem from extinction. Sarmanto´s followers worldwide will be obviously delighted to hear this, as should be every connoisseur of good music, especially those who follow the emergence of the modern European Jazz. Brilliant stuff!
Visitors' Comments
Dr. Rafael Augusto Lara Palmeros
One of the most impressive, extraordinary and wonderful work from real modern European Jazz.¡¡Very essential!!. More of five stars.
| | Updated: 29/09/2017Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HEIKKI SARMANTO ~ COUNTERBALANCE
PORTER 1506 (Barcode: 656605863825) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2008
This is the second album by Finnish pianist / composer Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist, recorded soon after his return from Boston, where he attended the Berklee College of Music – the first Finnish musician to do so. The core of the quintet, which recorded this album, was established in Boston, and recorded a semi-formal session there, released only 38 years later as "A Boston DateFind albums with this title" on the PorterFind albums on this label label. With three Finnish musicians: Sarmanto on Fender Rhodes, flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist (Heikki´s brother and life-long collaborator), and two Americans: guitarist Lance GundersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Craig HerndonFind albums by this artist (Pekka replaced George MrazFind albums by this artist, who played on the Boston session, recorded just few months earlier), this quintet continues the explorations originated in their first encounter, but this time the approach is quite different.
Whereas the Boston session was almost completely spontaneous and unplanned, exploring the realm of Free Jazz collective improvisation, this recording session is obviously well planned and therefore much more organized. Although there is plenty of great improvisations here and even some Free Form, the melodic content is clearly stated and well developed, with an overall atmosphere of typical Nordic tranquility and serenity in the air. Sarmanto´s switch to the Fender Rhodes and Aaltonen using the flute exclusively have a deep impact on the album´s overall sound and ambiance, which are predominantly relaxed and deeply reflective. The worldwide explosion of Fusion, which happened in the early 1970s and which affected the Finnish scene as much as any other musical scene in the world can be heard here as well, with Sarmanto / Aaltonen interplays resembling the Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist / Joe FarrellFind albums by this artist dialogs on the early Return To ForeverFind albums by this artist albums.
But above all, the music, composed almost entirely by Sarmanto (with Gunderson contributing one composition), is a sublime example of European Jazz at its peak, combining the elements of Jazz tradition with harmonies from the European Classical Music and heritage from European ethnic music. The Scandinavian Jazz musicians and composers, and Finnish ones in particular, were amongst the pioneers of Jazz-World Fusion, and many of their creations were deeply rooted in local folklore. Aaltonen´s beautiful flute lines are full of clever innuendos to Finnish (but not only) folklore, as are many of Sarmanto´s piano lines. Pekka´s excellent bass playing is a clear evidence of his extraordinary talent and ability, which can be heard on countless Finnish Jazz albums over the years. Herndon provides a great rhythmic drive to the music and Gunderson solos and interacts with the other members of the quintet almost telepathically.
Overall this a beautifully played and well constructed piece of music, which one tends to remember fondly for a very long period of time – I know I did, as I never forgot this album since hearing it for the first time some 37 years ago. For people who never heard it before, this is a wonderful opportunity to discover a masterpiece of European Jazz, which has been unavailable for decades and only now reissued on CD for the first time. Don´t even think twice!
| | Updated: 29/09/2017Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | HEIKKI SARMANTO ~ EAST RIVER
FIFTY-FIFTY 1081 (Barcode: 600609330371) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2023
By the turn of the Millennium Finnish pianist / composer / bandleader Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist was by all means a fully established and already legendary figure on the local and international Jazz scene, with a recording legacy of almost forty albums as a leader and countless concert appearances behind him. His fame and well earned respect were an obvious result of his extraordinary talent, but also his incredible proficiency and consistency, which are of epic proportions.
This live recording is a summary of sorts of his career at that point, at least as far as playing in small Jazz ensembles, like in this case a classic timeless Jazz quartet comprising of saxophone, piano, bass and drums. It also summarizes his career as a composer, since the eight original compositions composed by him and performed by the quartet span his entire career as a songweaver, mixing some early pieces and some more recent (at the time) ones.
The quartet is also a gathering of “friends and relatives” of sorts, comprising of musicians that played with Heikki Sarmanto for many years going back as far as his early steps in the Jazz domain. Saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist is a no less legendary figure and joins Sarmanto in the Pantheon of Finnish Jazz Godfathers. Heikki’s younger brother, bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist, remains as one of the Finnish Jazz bass virtuosos. Drummer Matti KoskialaFind albums by this artist, a superb instrumentalist and a Jazz educator, also goes back many years playing along Sarmanto at the very early days. All four musicians get plenty of opportunity to solo on this album and their individual talents can be fully appreciated.
The music is of course the epicenter of this album. Sarmanto’s highly melodic compositions and his sense of harmony have been an endless well of sublime emotional music. His heartwrenching ballads are like a soundtrack of the beauty of the Finnish landscape. This is Finnish Jazz at its best, taking the essence of the Jazz spirit and combining it flawlessly with other musical sources to create a perfect amalgam. It remains untouched by the tides of time. Combined with the excellent sound quality of this recording, this album is an instant classic, which deserves to be heard by Jazz lovers the world over.
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: 26/07/2024Posted: 26/07/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HEIKKI SARMANTO ~ EVERYTHING IS IT
PORTER 1514 (Barcode: 656605789521) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2011
"Everything Is ItFind albums with this title", recorded on September 13 & 14, 1972, was the fourth album released by Finnish pianist / composer Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist. Born June 22, 1939 Sarmanto was considered already a "veteran" of the modern Finnish Jazz scene at the time. A graduate of the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, Sarmanto contributed his talents to multiple local ensembles active on the burgeoning Finnish Capital´s Jazz club scene and participated in several landmark recordings in the 1960s. His earliest recordings (1962) were with saxophonist / flautist Esa PethmanFind albums by this artist as a regular member of his group, culminating with the recording of "The Modern Sound Of FinlandFind albums with this title" (1964), which is considered as the first completely original modern Finnish Jazz album. In the following year Sarmanto recorded the album "For Friends And RelativesFind albums with this title" (1965) as a member of the Christian Schwindt – Otto DonnerFind albums by this artist quintet, also considered as an early milestone of Finnish Jazz.
In 1968 Sarmanto was the first Finn to be awarded a scholarship at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, which gave him a chance to get some formal Jazz education (the Jazz department of the Sibelius Academy would be established only in 1983, and of course Sarmanto would be appointed its first department head). Sarmanto used his time in Boston not only to expand his formal Jazz horizons, but also to mingle and play as much as he could on the local Jazz scene, which was quite active at the time. The Berklee students and the local musicians often gigged together and soon enough ensembles were formed.
Following a brief home visit in 1969, during which Sarmanto recorded his first album as a leader, a live sextet recording released as "Flowers In The WaterFind albums with this title" (recorded July 8, 1969) he returned to Boston to "wrap up" his Berklee affairs. During that period he formed a quintet, quite accidently, which is often the best way for things to happen, which played mostly Free Jazz based on the heritage of Albert AylerFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. The quintet recorded a session at a local studio, which was formally released on CD only 38 years later as "A Boston DateFind albums with this title" (recorded September 18, 1970, released 2008) on PorterFind albums on this label Records. The quintet consisted of Sarmanto on piano, another Finnish Giant, saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, who followed Sarmanto to Berklee but lasted only one semester (without a grant the finances were just against all odds), Czech bassists George MrazFind albums by this artist, who also arrived in Boston on a Berklee grant (together with compatriot pianist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist), escaping the brutal Warsaw Pact forces invasion of their homeland, following the brief "Spring of Prague" in 1969, the first major crack in the Berlin Wall. The remaining two musicians were guitarist Lance GundersonFind albums by this artist and drummer Craig HerndonFind albums by this artist, both Bostonians at the time. The quintet was nicknamed, half-jokingly, The Serious Music EnsembleFind albums by this artist, a name which would stick to several Sarmanto´s groups in the future, which featured the core of this quintet.
Following his graduation from Berklee Sarmanto returned to Finland, with Gunderson and Herndon following suit (they both decided to live in Finland for a while). Since Mraz opted to stay in the US and Aaltonen already returned to Finland earlier, Sarmanto had four members of his quintet in place. Mraz was replaced by Sarmanto´s brother, bassist Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist, and this new lineup recorded Sarmanto´s second (first studio) album "CounterbalanceFind albums with this title" (recorded June 8, 1971 - also reissued on Porter Records). A remarkable album, which features Aaltonen playing flute exclusively and Sarmanto switching to Fender Rhodes, and seems to be recorded by a completely different group, even if still pretty much in the Free Jazz vain. The European influence simply becomes overwhelming, changing the music dramatically.
Recorded just three months after "Counterbalance", "Like A FragonardFind albums with this title" (recorded September 14, 1971), the third album by Sarmanto, was the first giant step in Sarmanto´s exceptional musical journey. In contrast to his earlier recordings, which consisted of separate and unrelated musical themes, this is the first time Sarmanto, the composer, undertakes the task of producing a concept album, which consists of a series of compositions connected by one common idea. The result becomes a Jazz Mass, a novel idea, which Sarmanto will pursue again in the future with the extraordinary "New Hope Jazz MassFind albums with this title" (1979).
"Everything Is It", which followed a year later, was another giant step in the same direction, but on a grander scale in every direction. The ensemble is expanded into a Big Band; the music includes a fully developed suite in four parts, which lasts for over 28 minutes and two additional pieces, both lengthy as well (7 and 11 minutes); the scope of the compositions now amalgamates elements of Jazz, Folklore and Classical music.
In retrospect Sarmanto´s audacity and vision are truly prophetic, since such attempts to create cross-genre music would become commonplace only decades later. The Big Band assembled for this recording is a bona fide Who´s Who of Finnish Jazz at the time and includes the finest soloists, many of which were leaders of their own ensembles. Consisting of three trumpets, two trombones, six saxophones, piano, bass and two drummers (another bold decision by Sarmanto) the Big Band enables the composer a much wider scope of tonal expression, which of course he takes full advantage of. The vocal parts, or the libretto (in English), written by Diana GlassFind albums by this artist, is performed by a young and promising soprano from the Opera of Helsinki – Taru ValjakkaFind albums by this artist. The level of musicianship and individual improvisation is absolutely brilliant and is great evidence of how talented these musicians were. Considering the fact that this complex and challenging music was recorded in just two days emphasizes this fact as well.
This is European Jazz at its best, taking the essence of the Jazz spirit and combining it flawlessly with other musical sources to create a perfect amalgam. It remains untouched by the tides of time, a classic. Thanks to Porter Records for making this musical treasure available again!
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: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HEIKKI SARMANTO ~ MOONFLOWER
PORTER 4000 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007
Finnish pianist / composer Heikki SarmantoFind albums by this artist recorded this album as a gesture of closing one of many of his "life-circles". Nearing the age of 70 he returns to a session recorded almost 4 decades earlier in Boston, where he attended the Berklee Collage. The quartet present here (Sarmanto on piano, Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist on bass and Craig HerndonFind albums by this artist on drums) includes three of the 1970 quintet members, which recorded the music recently released as "A Boston DateFind albums with this title" on the PorterFind albums on this label label – a youthful foray into Free Form improvisation.
This album re-examines some of the compositions used during that session, as well as adding several more recent ones, all composed by Sarmanto (except one tune). During the years that separate the Boston session and this recording, Sarmanto created a vast body of music both in the Jazz and contemporary Classical Music, earning a worldwide recognition as one of world´s leading composers and performers. His contribution to the process of forging the European Jazz scene in the early 1970s is a monumental achievement in itself, but his entire career if full of superb triumphs. It is quite natural for people to mellow in time, and in Sarmanto´s case the process of his development as a musician "mellowing" means refinement and intensification of his natural gift into a blissful perfection.
This quartet recording is an ideal exercise in delicacy and sophistication, with deeply melodic flow ornamented by superb soloing. The music is coherent, but intricate and full of gorgeous musical details. These musicians are all true Masters, with great respect to musical traditions in every genre, be it Jazz, Classical Music or Folklore. Listening to the album inspires a warm, fuzzy feeling of total delight, with every note just right and every phrase just perfect. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | Updated: 29/09/2017Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SOINTI JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ SAARNAAJA
NOVA 23 (Barcode: 6420114012036) ~ FINLAND ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2016
This is the third album by the Finnish Sointi Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, founded in 2013 by composer / arranger / conductor Rasmus SoiniFind albums by this artist. The orchestra consists of seventeen musicians, forming the classic four sections. On this album the special guest and primary soloist is the legendary Finnish saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist. The album presents a five-parts (and two cadenzas) suite, composed by Soini, entitled “The Preacher”, or rather The Jazz Preacher, a most appropriate name for Aaltonen, who obviously is one of the Godfathers of modern Finnish Jazz.
The music is absolutely gorgeous, which is hardly surprising when Finnish Jazz is being played, superbly composed, arranged and performed by the orchestra and Aaltonen, who despite his age (born 1935, i.e. aged 81 at the time of the recordings) shows no signs of wear and tear whatsoever.
The music is a perfect amalgam of Jazz tradition, Finnish Folk and Classical influences and at times even pretty Free Form outings, which all fit together as perfectly as one might desire. Aaltonen’s soloing is as imaginative and inspired as his entire work over the decades, staying fully relevant and contemporary at all times.
The compositions and arrangements call for the entire palette of the Orchestra to be demonstrated in full, wonderfully emphasizing the European approach to orchestral Jazz music, which reaches beyond the American Big Band tradition, crossing over to Classical Orchestral heritage and other contemporary musical idioms.
The Sointi Jazz Orchestra clearly manages to achieve a unique language, which distinguishes it from all other European Jazz Orchestras, and it expands the boundaries of the genres with a fresh and bold approach, without necessarily breaking any basic rules.
Rasmus Soini certainly deserves respect for forming the orchestra, composing the original music it performs and establishing a unique approach, which altogether seems to be working splendidly, as their albums positively prove.
This album is a wonderful piece of music, which certainly deserves to be discovered and listened to but listeners, who might also come from beyond the strict Jazz circle, as it certainly is universally beautiful. Thanks for the music!
| | Updated: 09/05/2021Posted: 09/05/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | TASAVALLAN PRESIDENTTI ~ LAMBERTLAND
SVART 250 (Barcode: 6430065588511) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the third album by the seminal Finnish Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist (Eng. President of the Republic). This album was recorded in Finland and Sweden (vocals only) and originally released internationally on SonetFind albums on this label Records and locally on LoveFind albums on this label Records.
The group was founded in 1969 by two ex-members of the group Blues SectionFind albums by this artist: bassist / keyboardist Mans GroundstroemFind albums by this artist and British vocalist Frank RobsonFind albums by this artist and two members of HelpFind albums by this artist (led by vocalist Eero RaittinenFind albums by this artist): drummer Vesa AaltonenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist and finally a seasoned saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, Vesa´s brother, who was a member of SoulsetFind albums by this artist. The group recorded their debut album the same year, which was one of the earliest releases on the absolutely legendary Finnish Love Records (catalog number LRLP 7), the home of the dazzling Finish music of the late 1960s and 1970s, which released an astonishing catalog of almost 400 LPs.
By the time this album was recorded Juhani Aaltonen left to be replaced by another superb saxophone / flute player Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist and so did Frank Robson, who was replaced by Eero Raittinen (see above). Tolonen, who started to develop a successful solo career and released his debut album "Tolonen!Find albums with this title" in 1971 (also on Sonet), became the group´s resident composer and wrote almost all the music on this album, except for one piece, which was composed by Poyry. The album presented six extended tracks, two of which were instrumentals. The lyrics were written by bassist Mats HuldenFind albums by this artist, founding member of WigwamFind albums by this artist, "the other" seminal Finnish Prog supergroup at the time. This expanded edition adds the two sides of the band´s single as bonus tracks.
The music is classic Progressive Rock of the period, with complex compositions often combining several themes into a single musical piece. The vocal parts are relatively limited and most of the music is devoted to instrumental improvisations, with a strong Jazzy influence, which continues the Jazz-Rock element of the earlier albums. Tolonen and Poyry offer plenty of bloodcurdling soloing, which remains completely relevant to this very day. In retrospect this album stands out as one of the finest achievements of the European Prog in early 1970s, before the genre lost most of its steam and originality in the years that followed.
For lovers of early European Jazz-Rock Fusion and Progressive Rock this is an absolute gem and a must in any serious music collection of that period. Thanks to the great Finnish SvartFind albums on this label Records for their fantastic job of keeping the Finnish musical legacy alive.
| | Updated: 21/04/2020Posted: 21/04/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | TASAVALLAN PRESIDENTTI ~ LIVE IN LAMBERTLAND
SVART 387 (Barcode: 6430065588559) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2019
This is an archival album by the seminal Finnish Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist (Eng. President of the Republic). This material was recorded live on three separate occasions in the summer of 1972, after the album "LambertlandFind albums with this title" was recorded in the studio in the spring of that year, and offers mostly renditions of the material from that album except for one composition originating from the debut alum by the guitarist (see below). The recordings were done by the YLE (Finnish Broadcasting Company), which similarly to the BBC has bottomless archives of absolutely sensational material recorded over the years, which offers an amazing opportunity to hear past treasures, usually captured with a superb sound quality. All the material on this 2CD album was previously unissued.
The group was founded in 1969 by two ex-members of the group Blues SectionFind albums by this artist: bassist / keyboardist Mans GroundstroemFind albums by this artist and British vocalist Frank RobsonFind albums by this artist and two members of HelpFind albums by this artist (led by vocalist Eero RaittinenFind albums by this artist): drummer Vesa AaltonenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist and finally a seasoned saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, Vesa´s brother, who was a member of SoulsetFind albums by this artist. The group recorded their debut album the same year, which was one of the earliest releases on the absolutely legendary Finnish LoveFind albums on this label Records (catalog number LRLP 7), the home of the dazzling Finish music of the late 1960s and 1970s, which released an astonishing catalog of almost 400 LPs.
By the time this material was recorded Juhani Aaltonen left to be replaced by another superb saxophone / flute player Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist and so did Frank Robson, who was replaced by Eero Raittinen (see above). Tolonen, who started to develop a successful solo career and released his debut album "Tolonen!Find albums with this title" in 1971 (on SonetFind albums on this label), became the group´s resident composer and wrote almost all the music on the "Lambertland" album, except for one piece, which was composed by Poyry. The lyrics were written by bassist Mats HuldenFind albums by this artist, founding member of WigwamFind albums by this artist, "the other" seminal Finnish Prog supergroup at the time.
The music, as usual with live recordings, offers much more expanded versions of the studio material, which feature long and complex instrumental improvisations, and as a result bring this music closer to the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom than the original album´s Progressive Rock ambience. The strong Jazzy influence is more obvious and allows Tolonen and Poyry to produce plenty of bloodcurdling soloing, superbly supported by the rhythm section and even the vocal parts feature some wordless vocalese. Overall this music is a splendid example what this group was capable off at their absolute best.
For lovers of early European Jazz-Rock Fusion and Progressive Rock this is an absolute gem and a must in any serious music collection of that period. Thanks to the great Finnish SvartFind albums on this label Records for their fantastic job of keeping the Finnish musical legacy alive.
| | Updated: 24/04/2020Posted: 24/04/2020 | CD 2 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TASAVALLAN PRESIDENTTI ~ TASAVALLAN PRESIDENTTI (II)
SVART 298 (Barcode: 6430065588535) ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the second album by the seminal Finnish Jazz-Rock Fusion / Progressive Rock group Tasavallan PresidenttiFind albums by this artist (Eng. President of the Republic). This album, same as the debut, was also eponymous and therefore its title is often supplemented with (II) to distinguish between the two. This album was recorded in Sweden and originally released on Swedish EMIFind albums on this label in hope of exposing the group to a wider European audience.
The group was founded in 1969 by two ex-members of the group Blues SectionFind albums by this artist: bassist / keyboardist Mans GroundstroemFind albums by this artist and British vocalist Frank RobsonFind albums by this artist and two members of HelpFind albums by this artist (led by vocalist Eero RaittinenFind albums by this artist): drummer Vesa AaltonenFind albums by this artist and guitarist Jukka TolonenFind albums by this artist and finally a seasoned saxophonist / flautist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist, Vesa´s brother, who was a member of SoulsetFind albums by this artist. The group recorded their debut album the same year, which was one of the earliest releases on the absolutely legendary Finnish LoveFind albums on this label Records (catalog number LRLP 7), the home of the dazzling Finish music of the late 1960s and 1970s, which released an astonishing catalog of almost 400 LPs.
By the time this album was recorded Juhani Aaltonen left to be replaced by another superb saxophone / flute player Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original tunes, eight of which feature lyrics (in English) by Robson. The music was composed by Groundstroem, Tolonen and Robson or co-composed by all members of the group.
The music is absolutely stunning and every bit as good as the best efforts produced at the time in the UK. With a big heavy sound, obvious Blues influence and featuring wicked flute solos it resembles the early albums by Jethro TullFind albums by this artist and many other proto Jazz-Rock Fusion and Progressive bands of the era. Robson´s expressive vocals and English accent make this music sound as if produced by a British group, which enabled Tasavallan Presidentti to tour the UK several times, where I heard and met them for the first time.
The unique combination of extraordinary instrumental abilities and sublime songwriting, which was about to explode on their next album "LambertlandFind albums with this title" made Tasavallan Presidentti one of the unforgettable and iconic bands in Finnish music history, which in its entirety remains one of the greatest hidden treasures of the European music scene.
For lovers of early European Jazz-Rock Fusion and Progressive Rock this is an absolute gem and a must in any serious music collection of that period. Thanks to the great Finnish SvartFind albums on this label Records for their fantastic job of keeping the Finnish musical legacy alive.
| | Updated: 21/04/2020Posted: 20/04/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EDWARD VESALA ~ RODINA
LOVE 189 ~ FINLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976
For almost four decades, until his untimely death in 1999, Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist was one the leaders of the European jazz scene with dozens of recordings to his credit (as leader and sideman). His phenomenal talent as a drummer, composer, bandleader and trendsetter made him a pivotal figure and his status was truly legendary. This recording is one of the highlights of his illustrious career. It is a suite for a large jazz ensemble, which incorporates modern jazz idioms with Eastern European folk motifs. Vesala collected for this project the creme de la creme of the Finnish jazz scene, with such illustrious names as Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist (sax & flute), Esa HelasvuoFind albums by this artist (piano), Pekka SarmantoFind albums by this artist (bass) and two phenomenal Polish jazz musicians: Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist (trumpet) and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist (sax), with whom he played many times before in the Polish / Finnish quartet. The vocal talents of Irina MilanFind albums by this artist are also featured on some tracks. The music is truly majestic, floating constantly between melodic themes, solos by the individual instrumentalists and group improvisations. It leaves the listener awestruck and humble, following a larger then life soundtrack of wonders. A modern jazz icon and an absolute must in any decent jazz collection.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | EDWARD VESALA TRIO ~ NANA
SVART 421 (Barcode: 6430065585183) ~ FINLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of the iconic debut album by the Godfather of modern Finnish Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist and his trio with Finnish saxophonist Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and Norwegian bassist Arild AndersenFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, four by Aaltonen, one each by Vesala and Andersen and one co-composed by all three members of the trio. Finnish trumpeter Mike KoskinenFind albums by this artist, who was supposed to play on the album, fell ill and the recording went down in history as a trio affair.
This was the first ever Finnish Free Jazz album and except for the little known album "NykysuomalaistaFind albums with this title" (Contemporary Finnish) recorded a year earlier, on which Vesala and Aaltonen appeared only on the B side of the LP, this was the debut full album for both of them.
The music is typical of the early European Free Jazz wave, which exploded on both sides of the Iron Curtain by the late 1960s. Vesala enlisted Anderson (who was a few months younger than him) to play with the trio as Anderson had already gained experience playing Free Jazz with Don CherryFind albums by this artist and others. The cooperation proved to be of crucial importance for Vesala, as it led to him being introduced to Norwegian saxophonist Jan GarbarekFind albums by this artist. In 1972 Vesala took part in his first ECMFind albums on this label album, the Jan Garbarek´s "TriptykonFind albums with this title" and soon after recorded his debut album for the label "Nan MadolFind albums with this title". He recorded five more albums for ECM and also participated on albums by Polish trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist released by the label.
In retrospect, the album is not only a highly important document of Finnish / European Jazz, but also a piece of music that still sounds vibrant and exciting, in spite of the fact that it was recorded five decades earlier.
This remastered edition is the first ever appearance of this historic album on CD, and considering its immense importance, it is an absolute must for any serious European Free Jazz connoisseur!
| | Updated: 28/06/2020Posted: 26/06/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WIGWAM ~ BEING
ESOTERIC 2183 (Barcode: 5013929728325) ~ FINLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2010
4th album by the Finnish Prog Masters WigwamFind albums by this artist marking the arrival of the group at a point of maturity after the initial period of searching for their unique voice, as reflected on their first two releases. This album is often considered as one of the finest examples of Finnish Prog and together with its predecessor "FairyportFind albums with this title" it presents Wigwam as one of Prog´s all time highest achievements. Unfortunately it was also the last studio recording by the original lineup of Wigwam, with the second lineup changing considerably the band´s musical direction. The band´s core: vocalist Jim PembrokeFind albums by this artist (a British expatriate living in Finland), keyboardist Jukka GustavsonFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s principal composer, bassist Pekka PohjolaFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie OsterbergFind albums by this artist are joined by several guest musicians, mostly woodwind / brass players, including Jazz saxophonists Juhani AaltonenFind albums by this artist and Pekka PoyryFind albums by this artist, expanding the overall sound of the basic quartet. The compositions are all outstanding, moody and full of unexpected turns and twists. Superb instrumental sections allow all musicians to express their talents, often moving into lengthy Jazzy improvisations. Pembroke´s English vocals were a great asset for the group and contributed to their immense popularity outside of Finland. Almost four decades after this material was recorded, it still sounds fresh and exciting, ready to be discovered by new generations of music lovers. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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