Record Reviews
22 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ADAM BALDYCH & LESZEK MOZDZER ~ PASSACAGLIA
IMAGINARY MUSIC 001 (Barcode: 5905817210015) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by a two Polish Jazz musicians: violinist / composer Adam BaldychFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist. The album presents fifteen relatively short tracks, six composed by Baldych, two composed by Mozdzer, four co-composed by them both and finally three Classical compositions, one by Eric SatieFind albums by this artist, one by Medieval 12th Century composer Hildegard von BingenFind albums by this artist and one by Renaissance 16th Century composer Josquin des PrezFind albums by this artist.
I have followed closely the development of Baldych’s career from the very early stage, noticing immediately not only his exceptional talent as a musician, but also his determination and understanding of the investment needed to build an international career, which was quite unique among his Polish peers. He asked of me to write the liner notes for one of his early albums, the “Magical TheatreFind albums with this title” from 2011, which I did with pleasure. This might have led to his acceptance as part of the roster of the German ACTFind albums on this label Records label, a step which boosted his international career tremendously. Baldych released a series of highly successful albums on ACT over the years, but this new release marks the next step in building his career, the establishment of his own record label / publishing company, called Imaginary MusicFind albums on this label, with this album being its debut release, and his Wife’s album “ButterflyFind albums with this title” appropriately released hand in hand. Considering the classy, fashionable design and packaging of these products, he certainly knows what he is doing.
Classically trained, Baldych obviously feels close to his sources and knows perfectly well how to incorporate them in his music, which is always characterized by a deeply melodic appeal, with the Jazzy improvisations ideally suited to caress and delicately embellish the melodic core. He uses the beautiful sound of his Renaissance violin, in addition to the usual instrument, to extend the palette and uses plucking extensively, which makes the violin sometimes sound almost like a guitar, and again expanding the sound variety. Baldych always had an incredible talent to compose incredibly touching melodies, which are simply irresistible, and which are often heart-melting even in the case of most hardened opposition.
While listening to the album I had often a notion that the music was somewhat out of contemporary time-frame, perhaps something one would expect from a Baroque-period collection of pieces. Although there is plenty if improvisation, it remains so “well-hidden”, almost camouflaged, as if being an integral part of the compositions, rather than their extrapolations. This might be a very clever way to bring listeners nor used to improvisation to listen to this music without any predispositions.
Overall, this is a sophisticated cross-over between Jazz-Classical Fusion and almost cinematic contextual music, which offers beautiful melodic themes, richly encrusted in delicate improvisations, which should apply a wide range of listeners, mostly not necessarily Jazz oriented ones. It is a step into a different musical dimension from what used to be Baldych’s modus operandi, but not so radically different than it may appear at first glance. Almost meditative at times, it is surely a magical sound experience.
| | Updated: 28/03/2024Posted: 28/03/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL CIESIELSKI ~ BETWEEN BLACK & WHITE
BCD 30 (Barcode: 5906881885338) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is the debut album by the young Polish Jazz pianist / composer Michal CiesielskiFind albums by this artist, which presents thirteen compositions, twelve of which are his own original compositions and one is a standard. Ciesielski performs the music on solo piano, which is a very bold and courageous statement quite unusual for a debut.
Although Ciesielski is a very eloquent pianist, the real surprise here are his delightful compositions; a collection of impressions, miniatures and other ditties, which are all quite charming even if seemingly simplistic. Perhaps a great melody line and an elegant harmony is exactly what we need in times like these, when we are being smothered with overwhelming racket. This album is like a breath of fresh air or a whiff of women´s perfume in a malodorous environment.
To be perfectly honest this music is only marginally associated with Jazz. The compositions, or at least most of them, have a distinct Classical music influence, folkloristic touches, Ragtime memories and Broadway classic songwriting qualities, which of course is all perfectly acceptable. Ciesielski will surely find his own language in time, which seems pretty evident judging his achievements so far.
The piano playing is a bit too "pretty" as far as my personal taste is concerned, perhaps due to the influence of pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, who seems to be hovering in the background, but again time will surely cure this sooner or later. And pretty or not, it is definitely excellent and enjoyable.
Overall this is an impressive debut, well within the conventional Jazz mainstream, which usually offers little originality, which this album is awash with. Ciesielski is definitely on my radar from now on, destined to go places. Well done indeed!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ELEC-TRI-CITY ~ ELEC-TRI-CITY
BITTT 002 (Barcode: 5907632690072) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz-Rock / Funk ensemble Elec-Tri-CityFind albums by this artist, formed by bassist Janusz MackiewiczFind albums by this artist and including also the excellent veteran vibraphonist Dominik BukowskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marcin WadolowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz SyczFind albums by this artist. As the word-play title suggests, the band members originate from the country´s Tricity on the Baltic Sea. Several guest musicians participate on the album, most notably the keyboards wizard Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist. The album includes seven original compositions all by Mackiewicz.
The music lies well within the boundaries of the Jazz-Rock Fusion / Funk variety, but presents an up to date version of the idiom and even tries to expand its boundaries by adding somewhat more electronic ambience and more advanced harmonic structures as well as more ambitious improvisations than usually utilized by musicians operating within these genres. The compositions are surely better than most sketchy melodic lines usually used in Funk over a repetitious rhythmic pattern. In short this music is a breath of fresh air as far as Funk & Co are concerned.
The individual contributions are all beyond reproach, which is not surprising considering the obvious abilities of the musicians involved. Mackiewicz plays some pretty "nasty" bass lines, which can wake up the dead, Bukowski and his xylosynth (xylophone-synthesizer) produces superb atmospheric sonic layers and inspired solos, Wadolowski adds a gutsy, Bluesy guitar sound and Sycz keeps the entire shamadan moving forward straight to the listeners guts (or heart). Even Mozdzer plays here considerably more imaginatively than on his solo albums lately.
Overall this is an excellent album as far as Funk is concerned, elegant and entertaining and above all great fun. I enjoyed every minute of this music, which is definitely more suitable for warm climates. Thank you guys for bringing some joy to life!
| | Updated: 12/05/2017Posted: | CD 1 Digipak 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 |
  | ANNA MARIA JOPEK ~ ID (POLISH EDITION)
UNIVERSAL 602517348424 (Barcode: 602517348424) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2006 - 2007 Released: 2007
Twelve brilliant albums in just ten years are surely an awe-inspiring record for even a most accomplished musician. Polish singer / composer / lyricist extraordinare Anna Maria JopekFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. AMJFind albums by this artist) seems to be unstoppable in her continuous path towards a secure position in the Pantheon of contemporary Jazz vocal achievements. Classically trained (at The Warsaw Music Academy) as a concert pianist, her Jazz singing was a second career opportunity, inspired by her stint at the Manhattan School of Music. The world of Jazz opened an entire new universe, which she embraced wholeheartedly and never looked back. Stars certainly smiled upon her as her career in her native Poland literally exploded, with her albums reaching Gold and Platinum sales one after another.
Her big international break happened when Pat MethenyFind albums by this artist agreed to record an album with AMJ entitled "UpojenieFind albums with this title" (note also Metheny’s memorable cooperation with Israeli singer NoaFind albums by this artist a.k.a. Achinoam NiniFind albums by this artist). This opened a gate for AMJ to cooperate with many more world-class musicians, as demonstrated on this album. AMJ sings mostly songs she either wrote herself or were written by her husband / musical soul mate Marcin KydrynskiFind albums by this artist. Over the years the couple created a vast songbook, which deserves praise and admiration for it’s consistent quality. This album is in many respects a glorious expansion of AMJ’s already remarkable accomplishments.
The creative process took over a year until fruition, with recordings in studios located across Poland, Paris and New York, with tragic personal events lurking in the background, which inevitably had a momentous influence on the outcome. The list of participating musicians is very impressive and includes such renowned Jazz and World Music artists as saxophonist Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist (his solos are a sweet reminder of his fabulous work alongside StingFind albums by this artist), percussionist Mino CineluFind albums by this artist, bassist Christian McBrideFind albums by this artist, bassist Richard BonaFind albums by this artist, singer and oud player Dhafer YoussefFind albums by this artist, singer and guitarist Oscar Castro NevesFind albums by this artist and percussionist Manu KatchéFind albums by this artist. Top Polish players like Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist (flugelhorn) and Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist (piano) also participate, alongside AMJ’s regulars: Pawel Bzim ZareckiFind albums by this artist (keyboards), Marcin Kydrynski (guitar) and Marek NapiórkowskiFind albums by this artist (guitar). The music (as already mentioned) is an extension of AMJ’s existing repertoire, with the usual deeply lyrical / melancholic ballads and highly expressive vocal improvisations beautifully spiced with World Music elements. Vocal duets with the African / Middle-Eastern motifs sung by Youssef are among the best of the kind ever attempted.
Although profoundly melodic, AMJ’s music is full of surprises, with ever changing rhythm patterns, unusual harmonies and intelligent instrumentation. Songs are often multi-layered and complex technically, but the overall effect is easy on the ear and goes straight into the listener’s heart. This fantastic talent to weave this musical tapestry is something I admire in AMJ above all her many virtues. Of course her outstanding delivery is right on the money time after time. Regardless of the mood, tempo or harmony, her deep voice modulating between whisper and shout remains clear, expressive, sexy and enchanting. The entire album is very skillfully put together, with exceptional sound quality and superb recording. Definitely a masterpiece of contemporary Jazz-World Fusion and an essential piece of evidence pointing to the fact that music (and Art in general) know no bounds, no borders and no limits. 100 % Brilliant!
Side Note: This is a Polish edition of the album. Apparently an international edition (with different contents) is due to be released later this year. Well, I can’t wait to put my hands on that. BTW the album went Platinum in Poland just 3 weeks after its release – apparently I’m not the only person who loves this stuff.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | CEZARY KONRAD ~ ONE MIRROR… MANY REFLECTIONS
SELLES 0182 (Barcode: 5908260401825) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz drummer / composer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist, one of Poland´s top drummers since many years, recorded with a core trio consisting of himself, bassist Piotr ZaczekFind albums by this artist and guitarist Darek KrupaFind albums by this artist, which is extended by additional players up to a quintet on some tracks with the addition of saxophonist Marek PodkowaFind albums by this artist and two keyboardists: Zbigniew JakubekFind albums by this artist and Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist. The album includes nine original compositions, all by Konrad.
Most of the music on this album is closely associated with Jazz-Rock Fusion, obviously influenced by the work of Allan HoldsworthFind albums by this artist and his groups. The electric fretless bass and synthesizers and of course the sound of the guitar imitate almost exactly the sound of European Fusion popular during the 1990s. The compositions are all quite interesting, with nice melodic themes and interesting harmonic approach, but overall the music is not remarkable enough to leave a deep impression, certainly not leaving a lasting impression.
The personal contributions are all quite excellent, with all the participants obviously being highly skilled musicians. There are some impressive solos and the overall level of playing is certainly satisfactory. Surprisingly the highlight of the album is the acoustic piano performance by Mozdzer on the only track, which is actually not a Fusion piece.
In retrospect, the album definitely sounded better at the time of its recording than now and does not withstand the tides of time well. This is unfortunately the fate of most Fusion albums, which proved to be mostly repetitive and derivative, with a very few exceptions.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR LEMANCZYK ELECTRIC BAND ~ INHERITED DREAM
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 198004805995) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is the second album by Polish Jazz bassist / composer Piotr LemanczykFind albums by this artist under the Electric BandFind albums by this artist moniker, this time as a basic trio with guitarist Marcin WadolowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Tomasz LosowskiFind albums by this artist, expanded to a quartet with the addition of pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist. Vocalists Hanna-Sosnowska-BillFind albums by this artist and Natalia Capelik MuiangaFind albums by this artist guest each on one track. The album presents eleven original compositions, ten composed by Lemanczyk and one co-composed with Mozdzer.
In the last few years Lemanczyk seems to prefer the (six strings) electric bass guitar over the acoustic bass, and his recordings become consistently more Fusion oriented, leaving Jazz behind. This album continues this new direction and offers a series of melodic compositions, performed by the quartet, with the electric bass at the very epicenter of things. Lemanczyk is a great virtuoso beyond any doubt, and the only question remains if this is enough to keep things to hold water.
There is no doubt that Wadolowski refined his guitar playing over time and he adds some excellent soloing on this album and Losowski is a superb drummer with great experience and technique, who keeps this album rhythmically together. But Mozdzer seems to have kidnapped the music completely, adding his piano parts, which are hardly appropriate to the Fusiony environment, with his usual “as many notes per second as humanly possible” approach. Mozdzer’s lyrics to the song he co-composed with Lemanczyk don’t help to clear the confusion as well. As a result, the music loses its focus time after time and sadly the album, despite its potential, does not manage to create a cohesive musical massage.
Overall, although offering some amazing bass guitar performances by the leader and great support by the guitarist and drummer, the album succumbs to overproduction and studio manipulation, lack of artistic vison and way too many piano notes. I miss the old Lemanczyk…
| | Updated: 06/04/2023Posted: 06/04/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | MILOSC ~ MILOSC
AGORA 9788326812972 (Barcode: 9788326812972) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 - 2012 Released: 2012
This is the DVD version of the film "Milosc" by Polish director Filip DzierzawskiFind albums by this artist, which is a documentary about the Polish Jazz ensemble MiloscFind albums by this artist, which was the most influential group on the Polish Jazz scene in the 1990, revolutionizing the approach to Jazz in the country, establishing the Yass sub-genre and most importantly waking up the local scene from the mainstream lethargy, which was overwhelmingly dominating the scene for almost two decades that preceded the 1990s.
Milosc was formally founded in April 1988, when the group which included bassist Tymon TymanskiFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Mikolaj TrzaskaFind albums by this artist changed its name to Milosc. Soon after the group was joined by clarinetist Jerzy MazzollFind albums by this artist, who left after a brief stay and then the drummer Jacek OlterFind albums by this artist and pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist joined the group creating the core quartet of Tymanski / Trzaska / Olter / Mozdzer, which recorded the group´s debut album. A year later the quartet expanded into the full stable lineup when saxophonist Maciej SikalaFind albums by this artist joined them to create the quintet version of Milosc. After several fruitful years and a series of brilliant albums, two with legendary American trumpeter Lester BowieFind albums by this artist, the group started to disintegrate, when Mozdzer left in 1998 to pursue a solo career, Olter died tragically after a long mental illness and Trzaska left the group in 2001. A year later the group played its last gig and formally announced the end of its activity in July 2002, after fourteen years of existence.
The documentary, which was filmed during a four years period (2008-2012) pays tribute to the group´s history and to the individual personalities, focusing on the meeting of the Milosc members organized in order to prepare for a concert by the legendary original lineup, less Olter of course who was replaced by drummer Kuba StaruszkiewiczFind albums by this artist. The documentary moves between the scenes captured during these rehearsals, historic footage and interviews with individual members, speaking their minds out. The director wisely avoids any external commentary, simply presenting the reality portrayed by the camera, leaving the spectator free to reach his own conclusions. Although not a typical documentary by any standard, the film presents a cohesive and intelligent document, which highlights several profound observations about people, music and culture.
Milosc was all about freedom. Considering the fact that the group was established at the crucial point of modern Polish political history, when the oppressive Socialistic Regime was about to collapse and Poland was finally to achieve its new political Freedom, Milosc expressed the same feeling of upheaval, but on an artistic plane. Polish Jazz, which exploded with incredible vitality and freedom of expression in the 1960s, slowly ran out of steam as a result of economic and social hardships and by the late 1970s and 1980s it was almost completely devoid of any truly spirited, adventurous, inspired activity and completely immersed into ambitionless mainstream. The young generation of Polish Jazz musicians and fans was about to rebel against this stagnant state of affairs and Milosc was one of the first and most successful demonstrations of this rebellion.
Although initially associated with Free Jazz, Milosc never actually played Free Jazz, surely not close to its American origins established by Albert AylerFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist. The group was an amalgam of many musical influences and created a unique and new approach and stylistic expression, which eventually was christened Yass. And Yass was more clear about what it didn´t want to be rather than about what it wanted to be, a rebellion against "pretty" melodic, carefully planned, well defined by harmonic conventions music. No more of that old-fashioned bullshit! Yass was "dirty", imperfect, spontaneous, unconventional and constantly changing, but it did not exclude the element of melody and standard meters. Free? Yes by all means, but definitely not Free Jazz.
From the very start Milosc was an impossible combination of conflicting strong personalities and diametrically different musical approaches. Why it managed to exists for such a long time is a mystery and a miracle. But musical miracles do happen and when they do, the listeners are the ones to collect the crops. The musicians, initially euphoric, start to suffer at some point and then simply can´t take it any more. The key conflict inside Milosc was always the clash between Trzaska and Mozdzer: a rebel and visionary and a classically trained hipster. This fundamental conflict was what brought Milosc to its knees, but it wasn´t of course the only factor. Poland and its cultural environment went through a dramatic change following the fall of the Socialist Regime, and a new reality emerged; politically, socially and of course culturally. This new reality opened up new possibilities and closed the lid on many others, which existed earlier. Such dramatic environmental changes have a profound impact on people, and musicians are people after all.
The 2008 meeting between the Milosc members, which is the focal theme of this film, shows how profound these changes are, so profound that although they are able to play together, they are unable to communicate as human beings. Separated by an unbreachable chasm Trzaska and Mozdzer are further apart that ever, the former representing the Polish Avant-Garde scene still being its non-formal leader in every sense and the latter representing the absolutely opposite ad-nauseam commercialism; a clash of Titans, which simply has no peaceful solutions.
So is this a film about failure? About ideas and values that get outdated? Personally I don´t think so. Yes, sometimes not everything works as planned, but that does not necessarily mean a failure and in some rare occasions failures can be magnificent. I still very much believe that the same values that stood behind Milosc: freedom, pioneering search for artistic truth, personal integrity and the courage to do your own thing, are as much valid today as they have always been. Opportunism and conformism have always been and still are the root of evil.
This film is a wonderful piece of musical history, which sheds some light on a much neglected period in the history of Polish Culture. Although perhaps unintended, it also spotlights some profound artistic and ethic dilemmas, leaving the resolutions to the spectators. An absolute must to all Polish Jazz connoisseurs, wherever they might by!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | DVD 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 |
  | MOTION TRIO ~ POLONIUM
ACORDEONUS 009 (Barcode: 5907437034361) ~ POLAND ~ Classical
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2013
The Polish accordion trio, called Motion TrioFind albums by this artist, is one of the most intriguing musical ensembles active today, mostly acknowledged in the contemporary Classical sphere, but known also to cross over to other music areas, including Jazz. Founded in 1996 by Janusz WojtarowiczFind albums by this artist, who is the trio´s leader and primary composer of the original music they perform, the trio also includes Pawel BaranekFind albums by this artist and Marcin GalazynFind albums by this artist. Over time the Motion Trio turned out to be a most prolific recording act and this is their eleventh album since 2002.
This album plays tribute to the four great Polish contemporary Classical composers, who achieved international fame and recognition, often more so abroad than at home: Witold LutoslawskiFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof PendereckiFind albums by this artist, Henryk GoreckiFind albums by this artist and Wojciech KilarFind albums by this artist. In addition they also play one composition by Wojtarowicz co-composed with accordionist Jacek HolubowskiFind albums by this artist, a member and primary composer of Acoustic AcrobatsFind albums by this artist, another excellent Polish ensemble. Also included, as a special track, is a composition by Marta PlaszynskaFind albums by this artist, a famous Polish composer living in the USA, dedicated to the trio. Polish Jazz pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist guests on the Gorecki piece.
The accordion is sadly a most mistreated and misunderstood instrument in contemporary music, usually associated with folklore, street music and other "low culture" phenomena by Classical music snobs. Very few music lovers understand the incredible wealth of the instrument, its limitless possibilities and the beauty of its profound sound. Therefore the fantastic exposure that the accordion is given by the Motion Trio is a most welcome occurrence of great musical importance. This, in addition to the sheer virtuosity and inventiveness of the trio members, is a guarantee of first-class musical experience, which this album offers.
Although the unusual instrumentation may seem a bit strange in relation to the four compositions by the four Master composers, open-minded listeners will be very quickly completely absorbed in the new sonorities and re-discover these pieces in a new light, with undeniable delight. Of course playing such ambitious music speaks highly of the trio´s cerebral approach on one hand and emotional abilities on the other as far as keeping their minds open to a wide scope of music rather than thread on the easy path to success. During my recent meeting with Maestro Penderecki we discussed this album briefly and he wholeheartedly approved this specific interpretation of his composition, certifying his opinion in writing by autographing my copy of the album ;)
As long as works of Art like this album are being produced, our Culture is still alive and kicking, but for how long, unfortunately no one can predict.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESZEK MOZDZER ~ COMPOSITES
WARSZAWSKA OPERA KAMERALNA 005 (Barcode: 5904316586867) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023
This is an album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, recorded with the MACVFind albums by this artist Orchestra. The album presents six tracks, two of which are traditional compositions for piano and orchestra and four are, what he describes as “composites”, which were first piano improvisations, to which Mozdzer later composed an orchestral score.
The album comes in a normal digipak CD version, a black vinyl LP version and a special edition Box Set, which includes a colored vinyl, a cassette, a book and a certificate of authenticity (the only thing missing is a piece of Mozdzer’s underwear), the total price of which almost equals a monthly pension of average Polish retiree. Who does this guy think he is, anyway?
The project was hyped to the media as incredibly inventive, ambitious, unique and so on, but honestly it is, IMHO, a lame Jazz-Classical Fusion attempt, which offers absolutely nothing innovative, and is incredibly unattractive and boring from beginning to end. There is a lot of pretty piano tinkering and pretentious orchestral parts, which don’t make much sense neither separately nor together.
Mozdzer managed to establish a highly respected position, if not a superstar status, over time, which he is exploiting mercilessly. How much of that status is proportional to his musical achievements is not for me to judge, but I have not heard anything interesting in his music since many years. The pretentious, barefoot, shoulder-long blond hair style and sex idol stage appearance has probably a more decisive part in the matter, especially as far as his menopausal crowd of faithful followers is concerned.
“Pompous-ites” my ass!
| | Updated: 01/01/2024Posted: 01/01/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESZEK MOZDZER ~ IKAR: LEGENDA MIETKA KOSZA (SOUNDTRACK)
OUTSIDE MUSIC 010 (Barcode: 5903111494216) ~ POLAND ~ Soundtracks
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019
This is the soundtrack of the Polish movie "Ikar: Legenda Mietka Kosza" created by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist. It is constructed of twenty eight short excerpts, most of which were composed by Mozdzer, but also including some Classical Music pieces, a theme by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, couple of compositions by Mieczyslaw KoszFind albums by this artist, the protagonist of the movie and a couple of popular Polish Pop songs. The music is performed by Mozdzer and a few additional players as well as the Orkiestra Sinfonia VarsoviaFind albums by this artist. There are also several dialogue excerpts performed by the actors taking part in the movie.
The movie tells the life story of Mieczyslaw Kosz, Polish Jazz pianist / composer who was perhaps the most enigmatic figure ever on the local scene. Blind at twelve and dead at twenty nine Kosz left a brilliant but extremely limited recorded legacy and his tragic death has been a source of speculation, with suspected suicide.
I have not seen the movie yet, and therefore can´t say anything about the soundtrack´s compatibility with the actual visual contents, but being familiar with the story line and the book on which the movie is based, the music seems to belong to another universe entirely. Whereas tragedy, depression and deep sadness were the prime characteristics of life that Kosz experienced, the music sounds like a soundtrack to a romantic movie, with green pastures and herds of white sheep in the background.
The most astounding aspect of this music is that is has absolutely nothing to do with Jazz (with just a few debatable exceptions), which was after all the center of the artistic achievement Kosz managed to accomplish and the musical environment he strived to develop. Why on earth a soundtrack of a movie about Kosz is not primarily based on his compositions and played by a Jazz combo featuring a pianist who plays Jazz? For those in the dark I can only recommend to listen to the RGGFind albums by this artist album "Unfinished Story – Remembering KoszFind albums with this title", which is an example of what could have happened.
The sugary string arrangements, the endless piano arpeggios and the schmaltzy melodies are in my opinion hardly compatible with the memory of Kosz, who should be better remembered for what he really was – a bright comet on the Polish Jazz firmament, a man with a magic touch and a tormented spirit, a brief visitor who left us a part of his soul before he moved on. Blessed be his memory.
| | Updated: 22/12/2019Posted: 22/12/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESZEK MOZDZER ~ IMPRESSIONS ON CHOPIN
MAGIC 602527489612 (Barcode: 602527489612) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2010
This album by Polish Jazz superstar pianist / composer Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist presents him exploring the music of the great Polish composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist by playing his very personal interpretations of fourteen of Chopin´s pieces. Of the fifteen tracks on this album thirteen are performed on solo piano and two are duets between Mozdzer and Iranian (living in Paris) percussionist Madjid KhaladjFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded in Paris and initially released on the prestigious French NaďveFind albums on this label label, with a later Polish edition.
This is not the first album by Mozdzer, which is dedicated to Chopin´s music. In fact one of his first albums "Chopin ImpressionsFind albums with this title" from 1994 already explored the similar avenue. Like many other Polish Jazz players (mostly pianists), who rode the Chopin "wave" since the early 1990s and continue to do so to this day, Mozdzer jumped on the wagon, using it as another step in his way to the top of the local scene. Playing some Chopin is considered bon ton and obviously tickles the patriotic feelings in listeners, fans, critics and state bureaucrats. The artistic merits of such explorations are an entirely different issue.
Mozdzer is undoubtedly a virtuoso piano player, capable of playing virtually anything. He is also a very charismatic performer and his good looks make him the ladies´ Adonis. The question is, if beneath all those external characteristics one can find a great Jazz musician or is Mozdzer just a more sophisticated version of Richard Clayderman? It´s not for me to provide a decisive answer to this dilemma, but judging from this album, there is surely very little Jazz involved here. Mozdzer freely interprets Chopin´s compositions, playing around with tempi, adding almost Baroque ornaments and endless arpeggios. Stylistically he dresses up the Chopin pieces in disguises parallel to the various Jazz sub-genres, from Ragtime to Swing, or ventures into atmospheric New Age doodling. Of course there are some great moments herein, even glimpses of brilliance, but they are lost in the overall impression.
Of course I respect the "de gustibus non est disputandum" approach, but personally I find this music sort of intellectually offending. Much ado about nothing more or less summarizes it perfectly. I´m sure many people love this music totally, which is fine with me, but where I come from one does not tackle profound, almost sacred music, unless one has something truly intense to say.
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  | LESZEK MOZDZER ~ KOMEDA
ACT 9516 (Barcode: 614427951625) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011
Polish pianist / composer Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist enjoys a superstar status in his country and his albums are listened to not only by the hardcore Jazz enthusiasts, but by a wide music-loving audience, which otherwise avoids listening to Jazz recordings. Mozdzer keeps changing his stylistic and aesthetic approach to music in general and Jazz in particular, expanding the boundaries of the genre, often quite dramatically, with excursions into ambient, neo-romanticism and new age, which of course results in much broader circles of potential listeners.
But in spite of his chameleonic nature, his abilities as a piano player are beyond reproach: he is a virtuosic and exceptional player in every sense. The instrument seems to surrender itself completely to him and his hands on the keyboard often make an impression of belonging to a superhuman four-armed Shiva.
This album finds Mozdzer interpreting the music of another Polish Jazz Legend, pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. He performs eight of the better known Komeda´s compositions, alone at the piano, which for him is a well-proven setting. He successfully repeats his dazzling achievements, with deeply personal rendition of Komeda´s legacy, which surely will again find many enthusiastic listeners and overall acclaim. However, as much as I like Mozdzer as a musician and this album as a showcase of superb solo performance, I must admit that his interpretation of Komeda´s music is in my opinion completely misguided.
As far as I understand Komeda and his work, it is all about essence and spirit, almost minimalistic in nature, allowing for the intellectual interpretation to fill the gaps and build upon the skeletal outlines. Traditionally, Polish Jazz musicians interpreting Komeda, tried to stick to the basics, for what they were: pure essence, with Komeda´s cohort Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist leading the way as prominently evident in his recordings of Komeda´s music.
Mozdzer almost completely covers up Komeda´s brilliant simplicity by dressing the music with layer upon layer of musical adornments and trinkets, which overwhelm the listener, but suffocate the essence. But again, that is only my opinion, which I´m sure will be quite different from what most people think. All things considered, this is still a grand solo piano album!
| | Updated: 01/12/2021Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.36
POLSKIE RADIO 2422-2423 (Barcode: 5907812247720) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 - 1995 Released: 2023
This is the thirty-sixth installment in the series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings from the radio vaults. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only available additional source of Polish Jazz recordings of that period. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venues, including the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The music on this album presents radio recordings of live performances by one of Godfathers of Polish Jazz, saxophonist / composer / bandleader Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, who sadly departed recently (February 2022), paying tribute to his artistry. Namyslowski was active on the scene since the late 1950s and his music embraced diverse environments, playing Jazz in all its forms and idioms, between Traditional Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion. The 2CD album presents nineteen tracks recorded between 1974 and 1995 which are a wonderful collection spanning his various activities. Namyslowski composed all but one of these tracks.
The first four tracks on CD1, recorded in 1974, feature a quintet with saxophonist / flautist Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist.
The next four tracks on CD1, recorded in 1975, feature a sextet with saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, Karolak, Jarzebski, drummer Kazimierz JonkiszFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist.
The first four tracks on CD2, recorded in 1992, feature a quartet with pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist.
The last seven tracks on CD2, recorded in 1995, feature a quintet with the same lineup as the quartet above, with the addition of trumpeter Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist.
The fact that five of the musicians playing on this album (Namyslowski, Muniak, Karolak, Szukalski and Wegehaupt) are no longer with us is a sad reminder of the phenomenon of the first generation of the Polish Jazz scene disappearing.
The series, which was brought back to life after three years of absence, offers an upgraded packaging, which finally offers bi-lingual liner notes, fitting the importance of this music. The beautifully restored sound quality is excellent and the warm ambience of the analog recording is a true joy. Overall this is an absolutely essential piece of Jazz history which every Jazz fan should consider as a must.
| | Updated: 25/03/2023Posted: 25/03/2023 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ADAM PIERONCZYK & MIROSLAV VITOUS ~ WINGS
FOR TUNE 0084 (Barcode: 5902768701890) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015
This is a duo album by Polish saxophonist / composer Adam PieronczykFind albums by this artist and Czech virtuoso bassist / composer Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist. Together they perform ten pieces, seven of which were composed by Pieronczyk, two were co-composed by Pieronczyk and Vitous and one was composed by Vitous.
The music is obviously only partly pre-composed and emphasizes the improvised dialogue between these two players, which is the most vital element presented on this album, which in turn definitely belongs to the "Art of the Duo" category. The duo format, although obviously perilous in its nakedness and exposure, is also ideal in many aspects; it enables a conversation, which solo format often lacks, it enables the listener to concentrate on just two musicians, which is easier to do than to follow a whole group of them, and finally it is intimate enough to bring out the best in its participants.
Listeners familiar with the recording legacy of Pieronczyk won´t be surprised by his superb performances on this album. He has produced consistently excellent output since the mid-1990s and is definitely one of Poland´s top Jazz figures, which considering how crowded that scene is, is already a great distinction. He obviously prefers small formats and already was engaged in the duo format with Polish pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist and recorded a solo saxophone album. His music always borders between contemporary modern Jazz and Free Form improvisation, amalgamating the Jazz legacy and the need to expand its horizons.
Vitous doesn´t need any introductions, but surprisingly on this album he plays much more openly and freely than usual, obviously inspired by the circumstances and his partner. His statements, both when playing alongside Pieronczyk and when soloing, are all extraordinary beautiful, elegant and expressive. Although living in the US since the late 1960s, his aesthetics is still very European, full of romanticism and Eastern European melancholy, and as such he fits the role of Pieronczyk´s partner ideally.
There are no weak moments on this album. From the starting notes and well after the music is all over, the feeling of a cohesive, continuous spiritual experience prevails. Although, as all improvised music, the music on this album is often challenging and engaging, it is remarkably accessible and keeps the listener in a relaxed state of mind, which is very rare in such circumstances.
This is definitely one of the best albums released on the Polish market in 2015 and proudly matches any album released anywhere else in the world. Polish Jazz enthusiasts will obviously find it as an essential ingredient of their listening milieu.
| | Updated: 26/02/2016Posted: 26/02/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAL SALAMON ~ LION`S GATE
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 5903802495409) ~ POLAND ~ Smooth Jazz
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is the debut album as a leader by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Michal SalamonFind albums by this artist recorded in a quintet setting with trumpeter Zbigniew SzwajdychFind albums by this artist, violinist Mikolaj KostkaFind albums by this artist, bassist Milosz SkwirutFind albums by this artist and drummer Dawid FortunaFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Salamon.
The music is all very melodic, melancholic and lyrical, developing very slowly and without much dynamics. It is only marginally Jazz oriented and could be easily considered Smooth Jazz or New Age. Although the team includes some very talented young Polish Jazz musicians, there are very little opportunities offered to Kostka or Szwajdych to improvise and solo extensively and the music is dominated by repetitive waves of piano phrases.
The melodies are pretty similar to each other and there is not much happening for the duration of the album musically beyond what one can hear in the first few minutes. Yes, it is all very pretty and smooth, but it does not convey any musical message unfortunately. The album’s artwork is full of mystical / spiritual symbols as are the titles of the compositions, reflecting the New Age spirit behind the album.
Overall for me this album is quite disappointing, especially since Salamon’s earlier recordings sounded way more promising. This music often sounds very similar to the music of Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist, who is a master playing such soulless music – lots of notes, no content. Of course this is only me, sorry Michal, not this time…
| | Updated: 19/03/2021Posted: 19/03/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOJCIECH STARONIEWICZ ~ ALTERNATIONS
ALLEGRO 017 (Barcode: 5901157049179) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008
This is an excellent album by Polish saxophonist / composer Wojciech StaroniewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quartet, which includes pianist Slawomir JaskulkeFind albums by this artist, bassist Michal BaranskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Hubert ZemlerFind albums by this artist. Polish piano superstar Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist sits in on three tracks, replacing the regular pianist. Staroniewicz composed all the nine tracks present here, which again proves his abilities as a composer, as they versatile and vary in mood and melodic direction, including some subtle World Music influences. The music is performed perfectly with the leader soloing extensively, and his solos are always a pleasure to listen to. On the three tracks Mozdzer guests on, he also gets plenty of space to show his chops. The rhythm section gives the soloist excellent support and the overall sound of the quartet is very solid. Staroniewicz has a wonderful tone on tenor and soprano saxophone and an unusually melodic approach, which does not diminish his improvisational qualities, which are truly impressive. Overall this album is a lot of fun to listen to and a great proof that solid, melodic Jazz can be also of high quality and interest. This album is most warmly recommended to Jazz fans who love quality modern mainstream Jazz.
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  | 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 |
  | OLO WALICKI ~ METALLA PRETIOSA
OLO 004 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2004
This is an obscure but wonderful album by Polish Jazz bassist / composer Olgierd WalickiFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Olo WalickiFind albums by this artist), recorded in a highly unusual setting of a piano trio accompanied by a Classical brass quartet. The trio consists of Walicki with pianist Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist and German drummer Maurice de MartinFind albums by this artist. The brass quartet comprises of four players from the Gdansk Philharmonic. The ensemble performs a six-part suite composed and arranged by Walicki.
The music is an unusual Jazz-Classical Fusion piece, which differs from most other attempts to create such cross genre projects. The six musical themes are highly melodic and lyrical, and with the added brass arrangements they all sound like Classical miniatures, but with a twist. There is a lot of humor in these pieces, some of it right in the open, the rest subtly hidden, but always there.
This entire project is more a composing and arranging exercise than the usual Jazz oriented performance, as most of the truly interesting stuff happens when the brass is playing or Walicki plays arco. The piano trio parts a bit sugary; probably due to Mozdzer´s inclination to turn everything into honey (some may use a different word). The drummer is also quite exceptional, moving freely between Jazz, Rock and Avant-Garde / humorous ornamentations, all beautifully suitable to the music.
Overall this is a zany and highly interesting piece of music, which differs from most other stuff and therefore is highly educational. In some respects the Zappaesque atmosphere of this music is quite brilliant. It might be of course dismissed as being frivolous and lacking respect, but in fact nothing could be further from the truth. Walicki keeps the listener in suspense till the very last moment of this album (I won´t spoil the surprise), when the tongue-in-cheek irony is fully revealed. In any case this is definitely an album worth hunting for and investigating.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | PIOTR WOJTASIK ~ TRIBUTE TO AKWARIUM
INDYGO 001 (Barcode: 5907222872000) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2017
This is a sensational album by veteran Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist recorded with a large ensemble which comprises of some of Poland´s top Jazz musicians and a few guests from outside of Poland. In addition to the leader who plays trumpet and flugelhorn the other musicians are: trumpeter Sebastian SoldrzynskiFind albums by this artist, shakuhachi and other wind instruments player Igor PietraszewskiFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Viktor TothFind albums by this artist (Hungary) and Marcin KaletkaFind albums by this artist, keyboardists Leszek MozdzerFind albums by this artist and Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek KadzielaFind albums by this artist, bassist Darek OleszkiewiczFind albums by this artist, drummer Eric AllenFind albums by this artist (USA resident in Poland) and percussionist Jakub MiarczynskiFind albums by this artist. Two female vocalists are featured on one of the tunes. The album presents a five part suite composed and arranged by Wojtasik and dedicated to the memory of the legendary Warsaw Jazz club Akwarium (active between 1977 and 2000), which used to be the Mecca of Polish Jazz in the past. A sixth bonus track is also included, which offers an alternate version of one of the suite´s parts. The music was recorded at the RecPublica Studios and engineered by Lukasz OlejarczykFind albums by this artist, who as usual stood up to the challenge.
I recently had the opportunity to hear this music performed live at its premiere concert at the Silesian Jazz Festival in Katowice, with a slightly different lineup, and the impact of the music was truly astounding. This studio version is of course much tamer and orderly, so in some respects it sounds quite differently, but of course it is no less remarkable. Wojtasik managed to combine several sub-genres of the Jazz idiom into one coherent piece of music, which presents a kaleidoscope of modern Jazz, pointing to its many sources from Bebop through Jazz-Rock Fusion to electronics. Based on strong melodic themes but allowing a lot of freedom to the individual musicians to explore and probe, this is a wonderful example of modern Mainstream Jazz, which manages to be fascinating, unexpected and searching.
The individual performances are all great, as expected from this level of musicians. Kadziela´s guitar parts are the nicest surprise as he manages to transform the last part of the suite into a modern day "Bitches BrewFind albums with this title" ambiance, which should make Miles DavisFind albums by this artist happily turn in his grave. Mozdzer´s synthesizer parts are somewhat tedious, especially in comparison to what Pawel TomaszewskiFind albums by this artist managed to come up with during the concert. Of course Dominik Wania plays some stunning piano parts and it is interesting to hear him in a large ensemble setting. But overall everybody plays their heart out and the result is simply superb.
It is great to see (and hear) that Wojtasik is still in great shape as a player / composer / bandleader and as a friend I wish him many years of good health and creativity. He can certainly be proud of his achievement here and I look forward to hear more of his work soon. His blessed work as an educator at the Katowice Music Academy is of course no less important, but seeing him play is a true Jazz experience. Te old lion is still capable of a mighty roar, which the younger lions are happy to return. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 30/12/2017Posted: 30/12/2017 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
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