Record Reviews

FAIRPLAY & NORMA WINSTONE ~ FAR TO GO GRAPPA 4056 (Barcode: 7033662040568) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1992 Released: 1993 This is a wonderful and little known album by Norwegian quartet FairplayFind albums by this artist, which consists of saxophonist / bass clarinetist Tor YttredalFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Vigleik StoraasFind albums by this artist, bassist Torbjorn HillersoyFind albums by this artist and drummer Trond KopperudFind albums by this artist. British vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist joins the quartet performing vocal parts and contributing lyrics to four of the songs on the album, which offers ten original compositions, all composed by the quartet members. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo with Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist in charge of the recording magic, with spectacular results as usual. The music is an absolutely stunning example of Nordic Jazz, with a slight touch of Fusion, due to the utilization of electric bass and keyboards. The music is strongly melody based, with the omnipresent Nordic melancholy and introspection, but ventures into open, more freely improvised explorations on the instrumental tracks. Winstone fits wonderfully to this musical environment both as a vocalist and a lyricist, and the cooperation is perfectly organic and as a result also extremely effective. Her vocal and improvised vocalese are absolutely top notch. The instrumental pieces provide an opportunity to the quartet members to explore more adventurous direction, but overall the entire album is beautifully coherent and definitely offers a clearly defined musical aesthetics. It is interesting to hear this music in retrospect, especially in view of the later career of the members of the group, including ECMFind albums on this label recordings. Overall this is a lost treasure and an absolute gem for all Winstone fans, British and Scandinavian Jazz enthusiasts and all people with ears in their heads. Not easy to find but worth the effort – absolutely stunning stuff!

Updated: 18/06/2018Posted: 18/06/2018

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

FORMAN, MITCHEL ~ HAND MADE LIPSTICK 89010 ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Keyboards player Mitchel Forman is one of the most sophisticated representatives of modern Fusion. Proficient both on acoustic piano and electronic keyboards, he has excellent technique and formidable compositional skills. After stints with the re-formed Mahavishnu Orchestra and other famous bands, he now concentrates on solo career. This album is an excellent example of modern Fusion, with plenty of rhythms and fire as well as elegant solos.

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL FORMANEK ~ THE RUB AND THE SPARE CHANGE ECM 2167 (Barcode: 602527395142) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010 This is the debut album for the prestigious ECMFind albums on this label label by American bassist Michael FormanekFind albums by this artist. It was recorded with a brilliant all-American quartet, which includes saxophonist Tim BerneFind albums by this artist, pianist Craig TabornFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist, all three belonging to the top class of American musicians today. All the music was composed by Formanek and the quartet performs it brilliantly, from start to finish. Both Berne and Taborn have distinctive voices of their own and their contributions are superb throughout. Formanek and Cleaver work together harmoniously and brilliantly as a rhythms section, turning this quartet into a splendid music-making unit, with very few rivals around. The music is strongly influenced by European aesthetics, which is unusual for American Jazz musicians, but common (not surprisingly) to those recording for ECM. This is a very strong album, which should appeal to all Jazz connoisseurs. Highly recommended!

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

	FORMULA 3 ~ DIES IRAE SI-WAN 1037 ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock 1st album from 1970 by this Italian band. This debut album presents a mixture of Psychelelic and Proto-Prog, as appropriate for the period it was recorded in. Excellent musicianship and great melodies, as one can expect from Italian Prog.
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

	FORMULA 3 ~ LA GRANDE CASA SI-WAN 1007 ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock 4th and last album from 1973. This album is more song oriented then the previous one, but all the qualities of the band are still very evident and the music is excellent. After Formula 3 disbanded, the guitar player Alberto Radius formed the excellent band Il Volo.
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

	FORMULA 3 ~ SOGNANDO E RISOGNANDO SI-WAN 1004 ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock 3rd album from 1972 by this Proto-Prog Italian band and considered their best. Full of great melodies and good playing, similar to other Italian bands (like PFM) of that era, but less pretentious. This album is closest to Symphonic Prog, with extended songs and long instrumental passages.
	CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

MICHAEL GIBBS / NDR BIG BAND / NORMA WINSTONE ~ HERE`S A SONG FOR YOU FUZZY MOON 005 (Barcode: 5065001308031) ~ UK ~ Jazz This is an absolutely stunning album by British Jazz composer / arranger / bandleader Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, recorded with the German NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist and featuring the vocals of the British Jazz Diva Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve songs; some of which originate from Pop / Rock repertoire and other are Jazz standards. Only one song is an original by Gibbs, which goes back in time to his eponymous debut album. Both Gibbs and Winstone have been cooperating with the NDR Big Band, which is hardly surprising as the NDR Big Band is the best of its kind in Europe (if not in the world) since many years and one of the last remaining active large ensembles of this kind, which manages not only to survive but also to produce numerous recordings of the highest quality. Winstone recorded the wonderful "It`s Later Than You ThinkFind albums with this title" (2004) album with them and Gibbs the albums "NonsequenceFind albums with this title" (2001), "Back In The DaysFind albums with this title" (1995-2003), "Plays The Bill Frisell Set ListFind albums with this title" (2013) and "In My ViewFind albums with this title" (2013-2015). This album presents three separate layers, which amalgamate to produce a masterpiece of modern Jazz. First there is he stunning interpretation of the songs by Winstone, who is able to take them apart and transform them into unique vocal pieces that only she could sing the way she does. Then there are the brilliant arrangements by Gibbs, which often take the original songs very far away from the source, changing almost everything there is to change (harmony and rhythm most obviously) but still make them recognizable. Last, but by far not least, is the exquisite playing by the Big Band as a whole and the outstanding soloists, who stuff the entire musical cake with many sweet raisins. Of course each of these layers compliments the other two, creating something that is way more powerful than just a sum of the ingredients. Overall this album is in many respects the most accessible musical gift to a wide range of Jazz connoisseurs that Gibbs and Winstone ever created, either separately or jointly. It is a pity that the CD was only released in a limited edition version. Michael Gibbs graciously sent me a copy of this beauty from his vaults, after I´ve been hunting for it for years. So here we are with me smiling as the music is playing and my record collection being one step nearer the infinitely distant completeness. God bless, Mike!

Updated: 22/06/2018Posted: 22/06/2018

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

NORMAN HAINES BAND ~ DEN OF INIQUITY ESOTERIC 2301 (Barcode: 5013929431041) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 Released: 2011 This is the only album recorded by the excellent British keyboardist / vocalist / composer Norman HainesFind albums by this artist and his band, which although being completely unnoticed at the time of its release, later achieved a legendary status, and rightly as it is really a lost gem. Haines, who was the leader of an earlier legendary band (with also had only one album), called LocomotiveFind albums by this artist, formed this band after Locomotive fell apart. It included guitarist Neil ClarkeFind albums by this artist, bassist Andy HughesFind albums by this artist and drummer Jimmy SkidmoreFind albums by this artist. Together they recorded this gem, which is a classic proto-Prog / Psychedelic minor masterpiece, with lengthy instrumental improvisations, great vocals and above all excellent melodies. An absolute must to all early Prog fans!

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

ERIK THORMOD HALVORSEN ~ SOCIAL CALL LOSEN 189 (Barcode: 7090025831898) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is an album by veteran Norwegian trumpeter Erik Thormod HalvorsenFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic sextet setting with British (resident in Norway) saxophonist Dave EdgeFind albums by this artist, pianist Freddy Hoel NilsenFind albums by this artist, guitarist Frode KjekstadFind albums by this artist, bassist Agnar AspaasFind albums by this artist and drummer Lars Erik NorumFind albums by this artist. A larger brass section is present on two of the tracks, creating a Big Band effect. Together they perform ten pieces, three of which are original compositions by Halvorsen and one by Aspaas, and the remaining six are standards. The music is classic mainstream Jazz, somewhere between Swing and Bebop, as if frozen in a time capsule going back to the 1940s, beautifully melodic and spiced with well behaved improvised solos full of lyricism and wonderful elegance. Of course one can wonder if playing this kind of Jazz is still relevant today, but in this specific case the music is a tribute to the Jazz tradition, heartfelt and unpretentious, and as such fully relevant, as classic today as what other people call Classical music. The performances and arrangements are all absolutely perfect, as expected from these professionals, with excellent solos and tight sextet playing. The music was superbly recorded and presents a clear, rounded sound, which is a delight to listen to and Hi-Fi enthusiasts´ heaven. Overall this is a delightful album for mainstream Jazz connoisseurs, which has everything this genre demands: great tunes, perfect band and beautiful playing. Well done!

Updated: 17/02/2018Posted: 17/02/2018

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

ERIK THORMOD HALVORSEN ~ UPPERCASE LOSEN 138 (Barcode: 7090025831386) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015 This is the debut album by veteran Norwegian trumpeter / composer Erik Thormod HalvorsenFind albums by this artist, recorded in different quintet lineups with saxophonist Rune A. NicolaysenFind albums by this artist and pianist Freddy Hoel NilsenFind albums by this artist and several guitarists, bassist and drummers and a couple of guest musicians. The album presents eleven compositions, six of which are originals (four by Halvorsen and one each by Nicolaysen and Nilsen) and five are standards. All tracks are studio recordings except for the closing track which was recorded live. Halvorsen, a lifetime member of the excellent Norwegian Sandvika Storband (Big Band}, was 64 years old at the time this music was recorded. I have no idea why he had to wait so long to make this album but I am glad he finally did, as it is overall fabulous. The music is a straight-ahead mainstream Jazz, which is perfectly performed by all the participants, who display obvious sympathy towards the music and a great swinging groove. Funny enough, the original compositions on this album are honestly as good as the standards and its great to see that some people are still capable of composing a swinging Bebop tune, which makes the Jazz tradition alive again. There are many great solos on this album by those by the Irish guitarist Louis StewartFind albums by this artist are simply marvelous. Although not innovative or adventurous in any way, this is still a very good Jazz album, which many listeners around the world should be able to enjoy immensely and which plays a suitable homage to the mainstream Jazz tradition. I had a lot of fun listening to this music and I´m sure many others will share my feelings about it.

Updated: 06/03/2016Posted: 04/03/2016

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

IN-FORMATION ~ IN-FORMATION TRIO POLSKIE RADIO 1248 (Barcode: 5907812242480) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1981 Released: 2013 This is the second installment in a series of releases documenting the recorded legacy of the great Polish Jazz pianist / composer Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, most of which is released for the first time. Kulpowicz, who died prematurely in 2008 at the age of 56, was a victim of cancer. He was a member of groups led by the top Polish Jazz players like Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and led / co-led his own ensembles like The QuartetFind albums by this artist, In-FormationFind albums by this artist and also cooperated with many other musicians over the years. He was an avid follower of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s music and kept in touch with Coltrane´s wife Alice ColtraneFind albums by this artist. Following his visit to India, Kulpowicz discovered Indian music and the spiritual aura of India, which became his own. Following the demise of The Quartet, Kulpowicz founded a new ensemble, which he called In-Formation. Over time several different versions of In-Formation existed, including a duo, the basic piano trio, presented here, quartet and even sextet. In retrospect the trio proved to be the most successful incarnation of the group. It included bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. Vitold RekFind albums by this artist) and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The same trio also served as the rhythm section of the Tomasz Stanko quartet in the early 1980s, recording with him two most impressive albums: "Music 81Find albums with this title" and "A I JFind albums with this title" (both recorded at the same session). In-Formation recorded two albums for the PoljazzFind albums on this label label, the second of which is partly (three tracks) also included here. The rest of the album (five more tracks) originates in two radio sessions recorded earlier in the same year. All the music was composed by Kulpowicz and is a direct continuation of his John Coltrane / McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist influenced style presented earlier by The Quartet. Of course the trio´s music is much less intense sonically than the quartet´s massive sound, but not less complex or spiritually evolved. Kulpowicz carries, as expected, most of the load, producing his usual vamped chords and dense cadenzas of amazing fluency and virtuosity. The rhythm section supports him splendidly, with Rek emphasizing the melody riffs and Bartkowski providing the swinging drive carrying the music in fast forward most of the album´s duration. The piano trio, which is the ultimate Jazz showcase, was quite a neglected Art form at the time this music was recorded. Therefore these recordings are even more special, as there was no other parallel outfit on the Polish Jazz scene at the time. Of course the piano trio would triumphantly return and re-appear on the Jazz scene later on, including of course the local Polish scene, but at that particular time In-Formation trio was completely unique. This album is not only a great example of the Jazz piano trio Art, but also a very important document of the development of the Polish Jazz scene. Of course it´s an absolute must have for all Polish Jazz connoisseurs and collectors, but every piano trio buff around the globe should find this quite a treat. Great stuff!

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

LE ORME ~ COLLAGE UNIVERSAL JAPAN 9465 ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock 3rd album from 1971. This great Italian Prog group started as a psychedelic influenced rock group in the 60s, but by the time they recorded this album they were already one of Italy`s most important Prog outfits. The trio format (keys, bass & drums) resembles of course ELP (and also Nice and Trace) and so does the music, but it is distinctive and original enough to deserve high prise. Limited Edition

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

LE ORME ~ CONTRAPPUNTI UNIVERSAL JAPAN 9466 ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock 7th album from 1974. This legendary album is considered one of the highlights of Italian Prog. After adding guitar as the fourth instrument, the band developed their strongest and most advanced sound with played typical Italian symphonic Prog with lengthy and complex compositions, yet always preserving a strong melodic line. A must in every serious Prog collection! Limited Edition

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend

LE ORME ~ ELEMENTI CRISLER 3005 (Barcode: 8021939300520) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001 Italian Prog band Le OrmeFind albums by this artist were one of the most important representatives of the genre in the early 1970s and recorded several classic albums, which are considered some of the best to come out of this country. The band shared the fate of most of the other Prog bands slowly disappearing from the scene by the end of the 1970s, when the popularity of Prog genre suffered a serious decline. They recorded and performed sporadically over the years, and by the mid 1990s, when Prog was back on the scene, the band formally reformed and recorded their comeback album Il FumeFind albums with this title in 1996. But it took them another five years to come up with an album, which was a true reflection of their abilities and a formidable companion of their 1970s achievements – ElementiFind albums with this title. This beauty as a concept album, full of great melodies and excellent instrumental work, in the best tradition of the Italian Prog. With two keyboards players the band is able to create rich layers of sound and many dramatic moments, as appropriate for the genre. The sitar and violin parts are also excellent, adding a new dimension to the music. Lead vocals are excellent as well and the magic of the Italian language suits the music perfectly. It is truly uplifting to see a great band returning to its glory. Most warmly recommended!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

LE ORME ~ SULLE ALI DI UN SOGNO SONY 190759328323 (Barcode: 190759328323) ~ ITALY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2019 Released: 2019 When I went to the famous Feltrinelli shop in Rome to pick up the new Banco Del Mutuo SoccorsoFind albums by this artist album "TransiberianaFind albums with this title" on the day of its release, I just couldn´t resist getting the new album by another legendary Italian Prog band, Le OrmeFind albums by this artist, which was released less than a couple months earlier. However upon closer examination I found out that although the album was newly recorded, it includes only two new songs and the other nine tracks of the album are new versions of old songs from the band´s vast repertoire, starting with the "CollageFind albums with this title" album from 1971 and up to the "ClassicOrmeFind albums with this title" album from 2017. With drummer Michi Del RossiFind albums by this artist as the only founding member present and keyboardist Michele BonFind albums by this artist from later lineups, the group also includes bassist / vocalist Alessio TrapellaFind albums by this artist and guitarist Ivan GeronazzoFind albums by this artist. Two vocalists (each on one track) and famed violinist David CrossFind albums by this artist (on six tracks) appear as guest artists. In spite the fact that the album does not offer much new music, it is hard to resist the charm of Le Orme, which always was their main forte. The typical Italian lyricism and melancholy, embodied by their beautiful melodies and delicate harmonies are overwhelming and this album is full of them from start to finish. Although the album includes material spanning almost fifty years, it offers a coherent, strongly Classical Music oriented arrangements, which combined with the Italian lyrics is simply heart-melting. In short, although calling this a new Le Orme album might be a bit stretched, it is still a very nice piece of music, which is definitely worth listening to. From what I have seen on so far the album was rather coldly received by the "critics", which of course means very little. In contrast to the above mentioned Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso album it is not an effort to return to the glory days of the group´s early days but rather an attempt to keep their older music alive today, a perfectly valid concept by itself. Overall this is a superb collection of melodic tunes, which are closer to Pop-Classical Fusion than Prog, but are nevertheless a pleasant listening experience and a nice escape from the contemporary non-music atrocity around us.

Updated: 20/05/2019Posted: 20/05/2019

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

ORM ~ DISCOFIL GAD 069 (Barcode: 5901549197945) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock Recorded: 1978 - 1979 Released: 2018 This is a reissue of the debut album by the Czechoslovak duo ORMFind albums by this artist, i.e. Petr DvorakFind albums by this artist and Pavel RuzickaFind albums by this artist, who were both multi-instrumentalists, which was the country´s most successful Disco act at the end of the 1970s. This remastered edition presents the original album and four bonus tracks which are taken from the two singles released before the album. All the music, except one composition and one arrangement of a classical piece, is original and was co-composed by the ORM members. The music, although definitely influenced by the Disco mood and its typical riffs, is in retrospect very intelligent and extremely well done. It discloses roots of early ambient and electronic music of excellent quality, which managed to stay interesting, ambitious and aesthetically coherent in the passing years. Dvorak and Ruzicka recorded this music in a tiny privately owned studio and used a plethora of instruments to create a rich, orchestral sound, which is pretty amazing considering the technical obstacles. They also display remarkable instrumental proficiency and sound engineering knowhow, which allowed them to create this little gem. Overall, disregarding the Disco stigma, this is a nice collection of excellent tunes, perfectly executed and still sounding very good today. It could be looked upon as a nostalgic trip back in time, which it obviously also is, but it is much more than that. This music is a great fun to listen to, whatever label one might want to put on it. This is another unearthing project by GADFind albums on this label Records which deserves music lovers´ gratitude.

Updated: 21/06/2019Posted: 14/04/2018

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

ORM ~ TROPIC GAD 088 (Barcode: 5903068120206) ~ CZECHOSLOVAKIA ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1980 - 1983 Released: 2019 This is the reissue of the second album by Czechoslovak duo ORMFind albums by this artist which comprised of multi-instrumentalists / composers Petr DvorakFind albums by this artist and Pavel RuzickaFind albums by this artist. The album offers twelve original compositions co-composed by the duo and this reissue adds four bonus tracks from singles released before the album. The music is a significant step forward from the Pop oriented and somewhat Disco influenced excellent debut album "DiscofilFind albums with this title" and ventures into fully developed instrumental Prog / Ambient music. Although recorded in a relatively primitive home studio owned by the duo, it offers a clever utilization of synthesizers and studio trickery to produce a fully developed Symphonic Prog ambience of 1980s Neo-Prog variety. Since the Czechoslovak music is relatively little known to listeners outside of the Eastern European sphere, this is a splendid opportunity not only to bring some excellent music back to life but also to discover new musical territory. As usual if not for the praiseworthy efforts of the splendid GAD Records, this music would have sunk into obscurity, but now it can be re-visited or discovered by music connoisseurs, who are always seeking interesting treasures from the musical past. Most warmly recommended!

Updated: 21/09/2021Posted: 21/06/2019

CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend

STEVE SMITH / VITAL INFORMATION ~ LIVE! ONE GREAT NIGHT Q-RIOUS 124 (Barcode: 4260027621244) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2007 Released: 2012 This is a live recording the American Jazz / Fusion drummer Steve SmithFind albums by this artist and his quartet Vital InformationFind albums by this artist, which includes veteran keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist, bassist Baron BrowneFind albums by this artist and the new guitar player Vinny ValentinoFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by the group members, often co-composed by more than one person, which originate from the "Come On InFind albums with this title" and "VitalizationFind albums with this title" albums. The music was recorded in 2007 during a tour promoting the "Vitalization" album. The set also includes a DVD recording of the music present on the audio album, with one additional track. Vital Information has been active since the early 1980s and is one of the steadiest and most consistent American Fusion bands and Steve Smith is one of the most respected and revered American drummers with an impressive resume and practically limitless experience. The album presents an interesting twist on two of the tracks, which is the result of Smith´s studies of Indian rhythms, which he utilizes by using konnakol (Indian vocal, i.e. sung, percussion). The rest of the material is completely straight forward Fusion stuff, perfectly executed by all the musicians, with a lot of Funky beats and incredible feel. The music is quite nice, but does not offer anything that the genre did not present earlier on. Basically the album epitomizes Fusion (and particularly American Fusion) as a genre that got out of wind decodes ago and has been threading in one place since. In spite the fact that there are incredibly talented musicians involved, the music offers more of the same time after time. Perhaps Fusion is still a viable environment for live music, but on record it lost its impact long time ago. Fusion fans will find this definitely interesting and worth listening to; as for the rest of the music loving community, it is always great to play this music while driving an open car in hot climates.

CD+DVD 2 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

STEVE SMITH / VITAL INFORMATION ~ VITALIZATION HUDSON 101 (Barcode: 884088156442) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007 This is the twelfth album by the American Jazz / Fusion drummer Steve SmithFind albums by this artist and his quartet Vital InformationFind albums by this artist, which includes veteran keyboardist Tom CosterFind albums by this artist, bassist Baron BrowneFind albums by this artist and the new guitar player Vinny ValentinoFind albums by this artist. Several guest musicians also take part in the recording, including the excellent saxophonist Bill EvansFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original compositions, all by the group members, often co-composed by more than one person. Vital Information has been active since the early 1980s and is one of the steadiest and most consistent American Fusion bands and Steve Smith is one of the most respected and revered American drummers with an impressive resume and practically limitless experience. The album presents an interesting twist on two of the tracks, which is the result of Smith´s studies of Indian rhythms, which he utilizes by using konnakol (Indian vocal, i.e. sung, percussion). The rest of the material is completely straight forward Fusion stuff, perfectly executed by all the musicians, with a lot of Funky beats and incredible feel. The music is quite nice, but does not offer anything that the genre did not present earlier on. Basically the album epitomizes Fusion (and particularly American Fusion) as a genre that got out of wind decodes ago and has been threading in one place since. In spite the fact that there are incredibly talented musicians involved, the music offers more of the same time after time. Perhaps Fusion is still a viable environment for live music, but on record it lost its impact long time ago. Fusion fans will find this definitely interesting and worth listening to; as for the rest of the music loving community, it is always great to play this music while driving an open car in hot climates.

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

FERENC TORMA ~ I CRY OUT IN THE WILDERNESS PERIFERIC 213 (Barcode: 5998272708678) ~ HUNGARY ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011 This is a brilliant debut album by After CryingFind albums by this artist guitarist Ferenc TormaFind albums by this artist, a monumental concept album based on the life of John the Baptist. As usual with musicians belonging to the After Crying clique, we are talking about a full-fledged, almost symphonic scale work with rich orchestral arrangements, choir and a strong Classical Music influence. The list of participants includes twenty musicians, who play a plethora of instruments and sing either lead or chorus lines. Some Prog enthusiasts might find this music slightly "too serious" for their liking, but honestly this is Prog at its very best: intelligent, musical and challenging, with no clichés and boring repetitions. Admittedly a serious listening is definitely required in order to fully appreciate this beautiful piece of music, but the intellectual and aesthetic pleasure it bestows upon the listener in truly wonderful. Connoisseurs of the After Crying legacy will have no trouble to enjoy this music, but I certainly hope that others will discover it as well, as it truly deserves to be discovered. Most warmly recommended!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

TORTO / TAYLOR / JORMIN ~ TRIANGOLI ASTARTE 002 (Barcode: 8015948301951) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009 This is a criminally little known album by the European Jazz trio, which comprises of Italian vocalist / composer / lyricist Diana TortoFind albums by this artist, British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Swedish bassist / composer Anders JorminFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven songs, two composed by Torto, who also contributed lyrics to four of the songs, three by Taylor, four by Jormin and the remaining two are b other composers. The music is insanely beautiful, which is hardly surprising considering the presence of two sublime European instrumentalists and less know but highly talented vocalist, who seems to have no limit in her upper tonal range and is able to sing lyrics and vocalese with the same ease and elegance. The music is highly melodic and mostly almost romantic, perfectly handled by the trio from one tune to the next, creating an uplifting musical continuity, which one never wants to end. Taylor’s delicate touches of the keyboard and Jormin’s beautiful and perfectly harmonious bass lines supply the perfect accompaniment to Torto’s vocal acrobatics, and together they are simply irresistible. Considering the fact that almost all of the material is original, this album offers by far more excitement and aesthetic pleasures, than a recording of well-known standards, although all the compositions are certainly as good as any standard out there, which again is not surprising considering the level of composition abilities by Taylor and Jormin. Overall, this is an instant classic, which truly deserves to be heard. Sadly, it seems to be completely obscure even to the most devoted Taylor fans out there. I wholeheartedly recommend looking for a copy, which are still floating around, as this is definitely too good to be forgotten. Great stuff!

Updated: 08/03/2023Posted: 08/03/2023

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ CHAMBER MUSIC EMARCY 602498659601 (Barcode: 602498659601) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003 This is the debut album by the trio comprising of the divine British vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Italian pianist / composer Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist / composer Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. The trio keeps recording to this day and released four more albums, all on the ECMFind albums on this label label (last album released in 2018). The album presents eleven pieces, eight of which were composed by the trio members and three originate from other sources. Winstone wrote the lyrics to four of the pieces. The album was recorded at the superb Italian Artesuono Studios and offers a remarkable sound quality and clarity. Winstone seems to have found the ideal partners with these two excellent musicians and as a result a lasting and fruitful relationship was developed between them, producing over time a long series of exquisite albums. She is using all her vocal arsenal with the same effectiveness, both when singing words or wordless vocalese. Venier is a wonderful piano player creating layers of harmony beneath her vocals and Gesing develops a dialogue with her vocals with his soprano saxophone parts or atmospheric layers with his baritone clarinet parts. The chamber character suits the music superbly and the delicate, but highly expressive result is breathtaking. In many respects this music is an epitome of European Jazz, which ideally combines improvisation with Classical Music elements creating a new way of expression and a new Jazz aesthetics, taking the idiom to another plane. Perhaps the fact that all three members of the trio come from diverse European Cultural backgrounds is the key factor in creating this unique amalgam, but whatever the reasons might be, something innovative and inspired is born here, and continues to grow with the consecutive albums. For followers of British Jazz this album is also an important turning point, symbolizing the integration of British Jazz with the rest of the European scene, which up to the turn of the Millennium was still somewhat sectarian. Winstone has a rich history of cooperating with musicians from other countries even before this album was recorded, but the full synergy was achieved herein. In retrospect this is still a groundbreaking recording which lost absolutely nothing of its originality and intrinsic beauty over time. Wholeheartedly recommended, but very difficult to get hold of a copy these days, still definitely worth pursuing!

Updated: 20/11/2018Posted: 20/11/2018

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ DANCE WITHOUT ANSWER ECM 2333 (Barcode: 602537430475) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013 This is the fourth (third on the ECMFind albums on this label label) album by British Jazz diva vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist recorded in a trio format with Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. The album presents Winstone´s interpretations of thirteen songs; three of these songs are original compositions by Gesing with lyrics by Winstone, two others are compositions by Tomas MendezFind albums by this artist and Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist again with lyrics by Winstone, two are original compositions by Venier and the rest are Pop songs, including one song from MadonnaFind albums by this artist´s repertoire, which all get the special Winstone treatment. As usual with these trio albums, the music is an expression of intimacy and subtlety, full of wonderful dialogues and trialogues between Winstone and her cohorts, always deeply respectful and sympathetic; an obvious labor of love and mutual understanding. The music is stripped to the bare essence, both harmonically and melodically, leaving just Winstone vocal acrobatics and instrumental ornamentation. It is obviously a "less is more" statement, and in this case the more is an understatement. Winstone is not only a great vocalist, but also a Master of delivery and weaver of theatrical tension and aesthetic magnificence. Although seemingly simplistic, her vocal delivery is in fact deeply complex, which thanks to her total control of her vocal abilities appears to be simple to the listener. Contrary to the minimalist approach, the music this trio creates is complete in every way. Just the voice and two instruments are able to create a coherent and perfectly woven tapestry of sound, which says everything it is meant to say. It is especially evident in the interpretations of the Pop songs, which many listeners might be familiar with in their original versions, and which sound here more convincing and striking even when stripped from the heavy arrangements and instrumental background, which often hides the essence rather that reveals it. This album is another milestone in Winstone´s long and accomplished career, finding her in full command of her vocal and aesthetic capabilities. An obvious must have to the many Winstone faithful fans; this album is also an excellent window of opportunity to notice her exquisite Art, for those who have not discovered her yet. As usual, thank you Milady for being there, singing and most of all being yourself!

Updated: 28/05/2018Posted: 28/05/2018

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ DESCANSADO: SONGS FOR FILMS ECM 2567 (Barcode: 602557869897) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is the fifth (fourth on the ECMFind albums on this label label) album by British Jazz diva vocalist / lyricist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist recorded in a trio format with Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist and German saxophonist / clarinetist Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist. Two additional musicians: Norwegian percussionist Helge Andreas NorbakkenFind albums by this artist and Italian cellist Mario BrunelloFind albums by this artist, appear as guest on the album. The album presents Winstone´s interpretations of eleven theme songs of cult, mostly European films, one of which is also repeated in a short solo piano version. Two of these songs have original English lyrics, Winstone wrote lyrics for six more of the themes and the remaining ones remain wordless vocalese pieces. Venier and Gesing wrote all the instrumental arrangements. The album is dedicated to two great British Jazz luminaries, who were inseparable from Winstone´s career over the years: pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, both sadly no longer with us. The music is an intimate, highly elegant and exquisite piece of European Culture, which has an inclusive approach to Art, in which Cinema, Music and all other Art forms are simply different aspects of the same aesthetics. On this album Winstone in sublimely minimalist, as is the instrumental accompaniment, which only amplifies the overall effect of immediacy and deep empathy with the original music. She is, as always, consistent with her established vocal techniques and expressions, which enable a wide palette of vocal possibilities that she wisely and thoughtfully employs. Of course all the musicians involved are Masters of their trade and their ability to cushion Winstone´s delicate vocal phrases with their magic touches is utterly radiant. Winstone´s albums are always a completely risk-free endeavors for me, pieces of sublime taste and perfect execution that one can "blindly" count on. It just occurred to me that I have known Norma longer that I know my wife, which seems to be forever. Since I met her in 1968 I have closely followed her achievements, often on the vanguard of the British / European Jazz, and she never ever disappointed me in any way. Such remarkable consistency and creative power is incredibly rare and I am grateful to her for five decades of musical delights. I suppose this music might not appeal to all Jazz enthusiasts. It is definitely fragile and somewhat Spartan, compelling the listener to make an intellectual and emotional effort in order to absorb it, as all great Art does. Being familiar with these cult films and their soundtracks clearly helps. It is haute culture, obviously, which in our Neanderthal world gets barely noted, but that means it is something worth living for. If you know Winstone´s work, this album will be undoubtedly one of the crown jewels, if you don´t this is perhaps a great opportunity to discover her. In any case, this is a brilliant piece of music, which is out there for everybody to love!

Updated: 27/05/2018Posted: 27/05/2018

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ DISTANCES ECM 2028 (Barcode: 602517549234) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2007 Released: 2008 The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, the German clarinetist (bass) and saxophonist (soprano) Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist and Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources: some of it is composed by Gesing or Venier, some is traditional and a couple of standards are also present. Norma wrote the lyrics to all of these songs, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this! Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice I bought the later album first (Stories Yet to Tell), fell in love at first listen, and immediately ordered this one; I could not say which is better: buy both! (The John Surman influence seems to be very strong, as on SYTT.)

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ EDGE OF TIME DUSK FIRE 108 (Barcode: 5065001032998) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1971 Released: 2013 By the time vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist recorded this, her first solo album, she was already an integral part of the emerging new British Jazz scene, which completely revolutionized the meaning and the borders of the Jazz Art Form and made it a part of the European Cultural heritage. Since the late 1960s young British Jazz musicians decided to leave behind the clearly defined and pretty limited American Jazz forms and stretch them beyond recognition, creating a new musical universe. Winstone was right at the epicenter of this new creative eruption and her contributions made a significant mark on a large portion of the British Jazz recordings at the time, when she was a member of groups led by Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist or Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and sang on albums recorded by John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, John TaylorFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, Neil ArdleyFind albums by this artist and others. Winstone has a unique approach to vocals, which puts the human voice on an equal level with the instruments and allows her to perform using vocalese and other wordless techniques, which becomes as important as singing lyrics, which in most cases she writes herself. This approach earned her a respected position of the "resident" vocalist of the British scene at the time, which was reflected by the numerous albums she appeared on. The album includes seven original pieces, four of which were composed by pianist John Taylor, two by John Surman and the remaining one by John WarrenFind albums by this artist. The lineup reads like a who´s who of the British Jazz scene at the time and includes saxophonists Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Henry LowtherFind albums by this artist and Kenny Wheeler, trombonists Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist, Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, pianist John Taylor, guitarist Gary BoyleFind albums by this artist, bassist Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony LevinFind albums by this artist. The arrangements and settings move between intimate duets to a large scale massive Big Band sound and present the full scale of the Winstone´s vocal abilities and her amazing diversity. It´s pretty remarkable that in the forty plus years that passed since this album was released it lost absolutely nothing of its vitality, freshness and musical boldness. It still kicks butt and makes your body swing involuntarily, exactly as it did when I heard it for the first time. The fact that this music is available again is a joyful occasion indeed and in the sad days of dying Culture a graceful reminder of what used to be considered as music is most refreshing. This is a definite classic recording of the British / European Jazz history and a milestone in the history of Jazz vocals and should be an essential part of any serious music collection.

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend

WINSTONE, NORMA ~ EDGE OF TIME DISCONFORME 1962 ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock 1st album from 1972 by one of the greatest UK singers of all times. Although primarily a jazz singer, Norma is accompanied here by many musicians associated with the Prog scene such as Gary Boyle (Isotope) on guitar and the album has a very Progy feel, probably due to the fact that the Prog and modern jazz scenes in UK were quite interchangable at the time. A beautiful album and a rare gem!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ IT`S LATER THAN YOU THINK PROVOCATEUR 1037 (Barcode: 5038491103721) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2004 Released: 2006 British singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist has been my favorite Jazz singer for almost 40 years now, ever since I heard her performing in the late 1960s in the midst of the burgeoning British Jazz scene at the time. I always followed her extraordinary career closely and of course collected all her recordings, which in retrospect constitute a massive body of marvelous music. At the peak of the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s – 1970s she sang with the best: Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist and many others, contributing not only her extraordinary vocal performances but also her talent as a lyricist. With the decline of the local scene she continued on the European scene, both as a soloist and with the trio AzimuthFind albums by this artist (with her husband, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist). She is an enormously versatile performer, feeling at ease in any environment, from classic Jazz standards to Avant-Garde explorations. I always found her to be the most sensitive, highly musical and open-minded interpreter of both the music and the lyrics, which turn everything she touches into High Art. Happily for the music lovers, her talent and abilities seem to be untouched by time and she’s able to deliver her best up to this very day, which is well documented on this album as well. Accompanied by the splendid NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist (Northern German Radio Big Band resident in Hamburg), one of the best Jazz Big Bands in the world today, Norma delivers a wonderful set of songs, all brilliantly arranged by Colin TownsFind albums by this artist, who also conducted the band. The choice of material is fascinating and quite challenging as well, as Norma performs songs written by such dissimilar composers as Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Randy NewmanFind albums by this artist and Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist. Her highly personal delivery and the beautiful arrangements metamorphose these songs into completely new musical vistas, to the delight of any sensitive listener. The Big Band is used intelligently and skillfully, to serve as a perfect companion to her vocal delivery, without being overwhelming, in spite of its inherent might. The musicians are all virtuosi and highly experienced soloists, which is clearly evident from the instrumental solos, and include such renowned Jazz musicians as saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and pianist (and my dear friend of Polish origin) Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The recording and sound quality are stunning and resemble the sonic excellence of other European labels like ECMFind albums on this label Records. For me this is a great example of a perfect album – the music, the musicians and a voice of a Diva – what else can one ask for? Essential food for the soul.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ SOMEWHERE CALLED HOME ECM 1337 (Barcode: 602517799301) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2008 The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, her husband pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and clarinetist / saxophonist Tony CoeFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources; there are some standards and others are lesser-known compositions. Norma wrote the lyrics to the pieces, which are originally instrumentals, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this!

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE ~ STORIES YET TO TELL ECM 2158 (Barcode: 602527374260) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010 The British Jazz Diva, singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, with five decades of amazing career behind her, is still an unstoppable creator of heavenly music and every new release, which features her incredible voice, is a gift from musical heaven. On this exquisite album Norma is accompanied by just two musicians, the German clarinetist (bass) and saxophonist (soprano) Klaus GesingFind albums by this artist and Italian pianist Glauco VenierFind albums by this artist. This intimate setting is ideal for this delicate, fragile music, which floats like a butterfly from one song to another, showing the different shades and color of its wonderfully colorful wings. The music comes from different sources: some of it is composed by Gesing or Venier, some is traditional and a couple of standards are also present. Norma wrote the lyrics to all of these songs, another formidable showcase of her amazing talents. Overall this album is way beyond just music; it´s a complete aesthetic / intellectual love affair, which, when properly appreciated, is a source of bliss and delight. It seems futile to describe the music using words, just grab this album, pour a glass of wine and sit back and listen…and enjoy. Life it too short to miss this! Visitors' Comments Christopher  Brice I respectfully agree with Adam´s comments, but want to add that the sax is strongly reminiscent of Surman in lyrical mode; and that I immediately ordered the other album by this trio - now spinning sublimely in my CD player for the first time

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE / WILL BARTLETT ~ THE SOUNDLESS DARK JELLYMOULDJAZZ 034 (Barcode: 5029385864279) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is a duo album by British vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and pianist Will BartlettFind albums by this artist, dedicated to the poetry of British poet / novelist Philip LarkinFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, nine of which were composed by Bartlett and one by Peter ErskineFind albums by this artist. All the lyrics are by Larkin. Saxophonist Tony KofiFind albums by this artist and narrator Robin InceFind albums by this artist guest each on three tracks. Every recording by Norma Winstone is of course heaven on earth as far as I am concerned, and since this is also a Jazz & Poetry project, I am double biased. But in truth, considering Norma’s status on the British Jazz scene and her recorded legacy, this is hardly surprising. She is, after all, the First Lady of the genre and has absolutely no equals as far as intelligent and aesthetic approach to vocals is concerned. She does not have to prove anything anymore, which allows her to engage in projects that are close to her heart, and since she has an impeccable taste and unequalled talent, she just can’t go wrong, as this album proves once again. This intimate project requires, as usual, attentive listening, as the music, although quite melodic, is far from being simple, and the poetry is often challenging as well. Despite the controversy surrounding Larkin’s persona and his ideology, on this album he emerges a lost romantic, more than anything else. The music is all perfect for the selected texts and Norma’s delivery is nothing short of Divine, again not surprisingly. Overall, it is absolutely enthralling to hear Norma in superb form, as if the passing time existed in another dimension. This album is a sublime addition to her outstanding recorded legacy and an essential listening. Thank you, my Dear, for being who you are and for proving that life is worth living!

Updated: 17/11/2023Posted: 17/11/2023

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE / KIT DOWNES ~ OUTPOST OF DREAMS ECM 2811 (Barcode: 602465191387) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024 This is an album by British Jazz duo comprising of vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and pianist Kit DownesFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, four of which were composed by Downes, another four were composed by various composers and two are traditional tunes. Winstone wrote the lyrics to nine of the tracks. The music was recorded at the Artesuono Studio in Udine, Italy and engineered by Stefano AmerioFind albums by this artist, and offers a sensational sound quality. British vocal Jazz Diva Norma Winstone (born 1941) is in absolute top form and her many followers are able to enjoy another masterly album featuring her unique sensitivities and talents. This intimate duo setting is the best opportunity to hear her vocal delivery, which despite her age is still stunningly clear and convincing, as it has always been. This carefully selected set of compositions, which she enhances by adding her poetic lyrics, are immediately recognizable and characteristic of her work, which is magically expressive at all times. The album does require attentive listening and concentration, in order to enjoy the complex details, but the effort is fully rewarded. Kit Downes (born 1986) is less than half Winstone’s age, and yet he proves to be an ideal companion in this musical enterprise. His idiosyncratic compositions and approach to the piano reflect ideally the aesthetic values in the singer’s stylistics, and their work proves to be way beyond just the sum of the ingredients, where they fit and complement each other perfectly. I have been an admirer of Norma’s qualities since I first heard her in the late 1960s, when she was at the focus of the burgeoning new British Jazz explosion, recording one sublime album after another. Her collected recording legacy is an absolute treasure trove of British / European Jazz, and this album is another jewel in the collection. Overall, this is another brilliant addition to the magnificent life-long career of this great Artist, which none of her many admirers will dare to miss in their collections. It is minimalist and demanding, but exquisitely beautiful and aesthetically gratifying.

Updated: 26/08/2024Posted: 26/08/2024

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE / MONA LARSEN ~ FREEDOM JAZZ DANCE 3361*BLACK 1016 (Barcode: 4988041007980) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995 This is a criminally little known album by the vocal duo of British Jazz Diva Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and Danish Jazz vocalist Mona LarsenFind albums by this artist. They are accompanied by American (resident in Paris when this album was recorded) pianist Jeff GardnerFind albums by this artist, French (of Algerian origin) bassist Michel BenitaFind albums by this artist and British (also resident in Paris) drummer Steve ArguellesFind albums by this artist. The album, recorded in Paris, presents eight tracks, all Jazz standards, one with lyrics written by Winstone. The album’s focus is on the sublime vocal performances by the duo, which uses the entire available vocal toolbox, which includes singing lyrics, scatting, vocalizing, and more, which the two vocalists perform together in perfect harmony and sync. The accompaniment is very subdued and delicate, as appropriate for the occasion, but perfectly executed. Benita is absolutely brilliant as a collaborator to the vocal parts and is often left alone with the singers, but the piano trio is also head more prominently on some of the tracks. As far as the vocals are concerned, this album is a beautiful example of what modern Jazz vocals are all about and a classic schoolbook example of how they should be treated. The range of the various vocal techniques and collaborative vocal exchanges are simply phenomenal. It took me ages to find a copy of this album, released only in Japan on an obscure Japanese label, but persistence and patience paid up big time, as this is definitely one of the best vocal Jazz album ever, and I have heard a few of those over the years. Simply brilliant and absolutely essential listening!

Updated: 20/06/2021Posted: 20/06/2021

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

NORMA WINSTONE & JOHN TAYLOR ~ IN CONCERT ENODOC 005 (Barcode: 5036614000049) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1988 Released: 2018 This is a reissue of an album by the British Jazz "royal couple" vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist and pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, released originally only on cassette. The album was recorded live at the Guildhall School of Music in London and presents eight tracks, three of which are standards (one is a medley of two songs), four are compositions by Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist, Egberto GismontiFind albums by this artist and Ralph TownerFind albums by this artist (two) to which Winstone wrote words or vocal parts, and one is a composition by Taylor featuring Winstone´s breathtaking vocalese extravaganza. The album offers a wonderfully natural sound quality. This intimate duo setting is perhaps the best "real time" document of the decades-long musical cooperation of the couple and an archetypical example of the vocals / piano "Art of the Duo" idiom, as well as an embodiment of the British Jazz spirit, which these two marvelous musicians have always personified. The individual performances by Winstone and Taylor are of course stellar, as expected. She is perfect both as a singer of lyrics and improviser using vocalese, and her divine sense of melody and rhythm are a class of its own. He touches the keyboards with precision and wonderful dynamics, and above all with incomparable elegance and fluidity. But it is the amalgam of the creative flow created by these two personas which is simply unstoppable, resulting in an effect way beyond the sum of the individual contributions. The telepathic communication and emotional unity of the couple is absolutely astounding, serving as a timeless example of the effectiveness of the "less is more" principle. I can hardly think of an album that deserves the "classic" status more than this one. A hidden gem that listeners had to wait for thirty years to be able to enjoy, is finally here and offers sixty minutes of pure musical delight and an essential piece of British Jazz legacy. British Jazz fans and all true music lovers around the globe should find this irresistible and one can hope this music will reach a much wider audience than at the time of its original release. Beyond essential!

Updated: 09/04/2020Posted: 09/04/2020

CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend