Record Reviews

ROLF KUHN ~ CLOSE UP JAZZWERKSTATT 089 (Barcode: 4250079758487) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2009 This is the second album by veteran German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist (born 1929) recorded with his sensational new (at the time) quartet, which features also the veteran bassist Johannes FinkFind albums by this artist and two excellent representatives of the young German Jazz scene, guitarist Ronny GraupeFind albums by this artist and drummer Christian LillingerFind albums by this artist. Another young and upcoming German musician, trumpeter Matthias SchrieflFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The album presents nine pieces, eight of which are original compositions: five by Kuhn, two by Graupe and one by Fink. The remaining piece is a special arrangement of a standard. Kuhn´s musical life is almost completely parallel to the entire Jazz lifeline and he is one of the very few musicians, who managed to say "on top of things" for the entire duration of his life up to now. Anybody listening to this music, not aware of Kuhn´s biography, could easily assume that the clarinetist belongs to the same generation as his young quartet members, although they are separated by more that half a Century, which of course is absolutely amazing. The music is contemporary modern European Jazz, not entirely Free Form and including melodic themes, but performed completely openly, with huge degree of freedom allowed to all the participants. Full of virtuosic contributions by the leader and the rest of the crew, the music flows briskly and is over way too soon. There is not a dull moment on this album and the music is filled with elegance, typical European aesthetics and sophistication. Kuhn´s clarinet sound is completely unique and beautifully merges the long tradition of the instrument with contemporary approach. He is not only one of the most technically brilliant clarinetists, but more importantly is able to pour his soul into the instrument, producing a most heartwrenching sound, which is simply irresistible. This album is a must have for all European Jazz enthusiasts, clarinet lovers and connoisseurs of great music. It is recommended to check out this album´s predecessor entitled "RollercoasterFind albums with this title" and the brilliant 2015 release "StereoFind albums with this title", both recorded with the same quartet. Hats off!

Updated: 09/01/2017Posted: 09/01/2017

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