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  | KRYSTIAN BALAWENDER ~ BANGLA JAZZ
SOLITON 1283 (Barcode: 5903684232833) ~ POLAND ~ Smooth Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz trumpeter Krystian BalawenderFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with guitarist Andrzej GondekFind albums by this artist, pianist Kajetan BorowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcin JadachFind albums by this artist and drummer Piotr BudniakFind albums by this artist. Vocalist Wojciech MyrczekFind albums by this artist guests on three tracks, adding his own lyrics to the tunes. Several other musicians guest on selected tracks. The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by the leader (with one track apparently co-composed by Myrczek. I wonder as to the album’s title, since this album has nothing to do with Bangla (i.e. Indian) Jazz?
The music is a super nice, Funky Smooth Jazz, splendidly executed by all the musicians involved, which is a great fun to listen to. Balawender is the main soloist and his scorching trumpet sound is reminiscent of Swing bands of the American Jazz Age era, but with a much Funkier, Groovy, up-to-date feel to it.
I suppose most hard-ass Jazz critics will dismiss this music outright, but to be honest this is some an absolutely delightful, entertaining and danceable piece of music that I have heard in a long time. It is absolutely non-pretentious and heartfelt, simply stating “let’s have fun” music, with some beautiful music on top. Myrczek is great, as always, and definitely understood what this album is all about :)
Overall, this is a really nice, danceable, Funky and Groovy album, which is a delightful listening experience and could be a real hit at a party, where people still dance. I know you people think I am joking, but no – this is honestly great fun you all forgot how to enjoy in Jazz. Please remember that Smooth Jazz done well is better that pretentious Jazz badly played. Just get a copy and let’s see if you can sit still while listening to this. Great idea – congrats and thanks for keeping an open mind!
| | Updated: 20/01/2023Posted: 20/01/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
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