Record Reviews

DAMASIEWICZ / VILLAVECCHIA / LESIAK / REVIRIEGO / TRILLA ~ SKAWA L.A.S. 007 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023 This is an album recorded by the Polish / Spanish quintet comprising of Polish Jazz / Improvising Music trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and guitarist Grzegorz LesiakFind albums by this artist and Spanish saxophonist Liba VillavecchiaFind albums by this artist, bassist Alex ReviriegoFind albums by this artist and drummer Vasco TrillaFind albums by this artist. The album presents three lengthy tracks composed by Damasiewicz and was released on the L.A.S.Find albums on this label label, owned by him. The music, which was recorded in a country house in the Polish Beskid mountains, is a direct continuation of the album “On The WayFind albums with this title”, which was created by four of the musicians present here, who were joined by Villavecchia. The Polish / Catalan musical cooperation seems to be exceptionally fruitful in recent years. The compositions, or rather “impressions”, as described by Damasiewicz, are vehicles for the quintet members to create sonic structures, which are of course freely, but completely coherently improvised. The overall approach takes Damasiewicz a decade back in time to his Improvised Music explorations, but the period he dedicated to explorations of more spiritual and ethnic sources certainly left a mark, significantly influencing his trumpet playing, which became reflective and introvert, in comparison to his early work. All five instrumentalists are very accomplished musicians, who have already left a mark on the European Improvised Music scene, and their cooperation here is a reflection not only of their respective abilities, but also the friendship and respect they share together. Overall, this is another document of the position Damasiewicz holds as a central instigator of musical cooperation, which is always very productive and inspiring, even if directed towards relatively limited audiences, a circle which he manages to expand with time. As usual, this music is demanding, but at the same time richly rewarding to those ready to make an effort!

Updated: 18/09/2023Posted: 18/09/2023

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ ~ MNEMOTAKSJA FOR TUNE 0028 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2014 This is the debut album by the Polish Jazz quartet led by trumpeter / composer Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist, which also includes saxophonist Gerard LebikFind albums by this artist, bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Wojciech RomanowskiFind albums by this artist. The music was conceived and created around 2008 / 2009, when the quartet played and rehearsed inside the Baptist Church in the center of Wroclaw, and where it was also eventually recorded live but without audience. It was available as an obscure private edition in a CD-R version and finally got its long overdue formal release, after a careful remix and sonic improvement by the excellent For Tune label. The album consists of ten original compositions, nine of which are by Damasiewicz and one by Garbowski. There is no doubt that Damasiewicz manages to establish a well deserved position as one of the top young Polish Jazz trumpeters on the contemporary scene, which is not by any means self-understandable considering the truly fierce competition and incredible flow of talent in that area. It is worth to compare this album with the trio recording Garbowski and Damasiewicz made at about the same time, called "ElementsFind albums with this title", which to some extent has a similar atmosphere. Stylistically the album sounds quite "retro", resembling the glorious moments when modern Polish Jazz was at the first peak of its aesthetic and artistic development, led by the Godfathers of the genre like Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and others. The compositions are very much in the same mood as the music played then: romantic, minimalistic, delicate and full of lyricism and intrinsic melancholy. The same elements that made that music created half a Century ago completely eternal and outside of the time scale, are at work here as well. This music might have been made any time between the 1960s and now and would have fitted perfectly, being simply aloof from fads and fashions. The performances are also exceptional in every respect, both individually and collectively. Everything is kept in a relaxed, but disciplined mode, with conversation between the musicians being kept at the epicenter. The solos are inconspicuous, emerging slowly from the melodic heads, gently prompted by the superb rhythm section, which demonstrates an incredible affinity towards the music at all times, being as much creative as the two horns every step of the way. Garbowski has already an established record as one of the leading Polish Jazz bassists, but Romanowski, who also cooperates with another superb Polish Jazz trumpeter, Artur MajewskiFind albums by this artist, is a true discovery herein. Overall this is definitely one of the strongest and most significant statements on the Polish Jazz scene in the last decade, even though Damasiewicz has moved on in the meantime towards more improvised music beyond any stylistic conventions. Even if this album should remain as his only contribution to modern Polish Jazz in the true sense of the Jazz tradition, it will still be a remarkable achievement. This is also one of the most remarkable albums in the fast growing catalogue of the For Tune label, certainly from a historic perspective. Undoubtedly this is an album every true connoisseur of Jazz will cherish in his collection and return to repeatedly.

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / INTO THE ROOTS ~ SPIWLE L.A.S. 002 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020 This is an album by Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist recorded in a trio format with bassist Zbigniew KozeraFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel SzpuraFind albums by this artist. Bagpipe player Jan RytFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents six original compositions, all by Damasiewicz. The music was recorded live in a remote village in Polish Beskid Mountains, but the sound is wonderfully clear and authentic. There is some confusion between the running order of the tunes on the album’s artwork, but this is a minor issue. Damasiewicz managed to establish a position for himself on the local scene as one of the leading Improvised Music / Free Jazz activists and recorded several important albums over time, which for me personally are quite a mixed bag. However, this album immediately proved to be my favorite Damasiewicz album so far. Perhaps the immediacy and intimacy of this recording are more appealing to me than his large ensemble works and other recordings, where he probably tried to say too much. The album’s title is definitely very appropriate as far as this music is concerned, as it really goes back to the roots. The question which roots is not really relevant, as this music goes back to perhaps the very deepest roots of music itself, with primitive, repetitive and enthralling rhythmic patterns, which were best preserved in African music and from there arrived into Jazz. Perhaps there are also Polish roots here, inspired by the mountains and Folklore traditions surrounding this recording. Damasiewicz manages to incorporate all these elements into highly effective and mesmerizing, hypnotizing music. His trumpet improvisations on top of the steady rhythmic patterns sound more honest, revealing and moving than ever before, at least for me. The music is somewhat reminiscent to the early attempts to create Jazz-World Fusion by the great pioneers of Jazz, obviously sound-wise closest to the recordings by Don CherryFind albums by this artist. By following that path Damasiewicz finds the best of himself in the minimalist trio setting, with his trumpet playing being the clear focus of the entire journey. Strangely, or perhaps not, this is also the most coherent and melodic album he recorded so far, perhaps unintentionally, but undoubtedly highly effective. Overall this is a wonderful album from start to finish, accessible to a much wider audience than earlier albums by Damasiewicz, and despite its seeming simplicity, his most effective contact with his listeners ever. Beautiful and challenging don’t have to be a contrasting, as this album clearly shows. This music makes you want to dance! Well done!

Updated: 15/12/2021Posted: 19/03/2021

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / INTO THE ROOTS ~ SWITANIE L.A.S. 009 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024 This is the 3rd album by Polish trumpeter / composer Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and his Into The RootsFind albums by this artist ensemble, which was expanded from the usual trio format with bassist Zbigniew KozeraFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel SzpuraFind albums by this artist into a tentet, which includes bagpipes player Marek RytFind albums by this artist, woodwinds player Michal ZakFind albums by this artist, violist Krzysztof RytFind albums by this artist, koto player Katarzyna KarpowiczFind albums by this artist, vocalist / violinist Karolina KazmierczakFind albums by this artist and two vocalists Alicja KrzeszowiakFind albums by this artist and Kamila KrzeszowiakFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, five co-credited to Damasiewicz, Kozera and Szpura and two also add credit to Karpowicz. Damasiewicz and his cohorts stick to the formula of the previous two albums, which creates a magical amalgam between the Folklore of the Polish Beskid Mountains and the Carpathians, expanded by other World Music elements on this album, and Jazz improvisation. The result is always enthralling and keeps the listener on edge for the entire duration. Damasiewicz trumpet virtuosity is present herein, albeit less prominently, adding the proverbial cherry on the cake, but personally I can never get enough of it, hoping he will record more Jazz oriented material again in the future. I understand the tendency to stay close to one’s familiar roots and fully enjoy this music as well of course. The album’s duration, slightly under forty minutes, seems somewhat short, but considering the amount of spiritual tension and condensed musical delivery, there is plenty of highly enjoyable content here, for everybody to cherish. Overall, this is another excellent production by Damasiewicz and his cohorts, which offers convincing, heartfelt musical journey through World Music influenced aura adorned by Jazz improvisations of the finest quality. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 30/12/2024Posted: 30/12/2024

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / INTO THE ROOTS ~ WATRA L.A.S. 004 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021 This is the second album by Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and his Into The RootsFind albums by this artist trio, which also includes bassist Zbigniew KozeraFind albums by this artist and drummer Pawel SzpuraFind albums by this artist. The album, which was recorded live, includes also Folklore musicians from the Krzeszowiak and Ryt families, who live in the Beskid Mountains. The album presents eight tracks with the music mostly co-composed by the trio members, but also incorporating local Folklore songs. The atmosphere and the music are absolutely magical, almost meditational, with the slow tempo and gradual development, traversing between the original compositions and the Folkloristic motifs completely naturally and harmoniously. The strong bass pulsations, which are the unique trademark of this music, seem to be absolutely perfect for this environment, although they have more roots in North African Atlas Mountains than in the Carpathian Mountains, proving once again that music is universal. Damasiewicz is playing trumpet relatively sparingly on this album, improvising freely even less frequently, using harmonium and his voice, as well as the role of the spiritual shaman of these proceedings, which seem to be no less effective. It seems that after many years of trying to find himself in Improvised Music, he finally found himself one with Nature and Folklore and Spirituality on local soil. Overall, this music is way too Spiritual to be describe in words, and listening is the only way to enter its realm, which I of course wholeheartedly recommend. Seeing Damasiewicz being transformed form an Angry Giant into a Gentle Giant gives me a lot of pleasure. Personally I find this to be one of the most rewarding, unusual and aesthetically pleasing releases of 2021, even if it has only marginal ties to Jazz per se. I hope Piotr that you are as happy as you sound playing this music ;)

Updated: 15/12/2021Posted: 15/12/2021

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / POWER OF THE HORNS ~ POLSKA ASTIGMATIC 011 (Barcode: 5902860142300) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019 This is the second album by Polish trumpeter / composer Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and his Power Of The HornsFind albums by this artist ensemble and their first studio recording. It features a nonet version of the ensemble which also includes saxophonists Maciej ObaraFind albums by this artist, Adam PindurFind albums by this artist and Gerard LebikFind albums by this artist, trombonist Pawel NiewiadomskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist, bassists Ksawery WojcinskiFind albums by this artist and Jakub CywinskiFind albums by this artist and Australian born drummer Samuel HallFind albums by this artist. The album presents four (one in two parts) original compositions, all by Damasiewicz. The debut album "AlamanFind albums with this title", recorded live in 2012 (i.e. six years earlier), was the first release of the now legendary For TuneFind albums on this label Records label, and created quite a stir at the time. It was recorded by an eleven-piece version of the ensemble, which included only five of the musicians present on this new recording and presented just three expanded tracks, characterized by extensive improvisations. The raw power of the horns and super-sized rhythm section combined with the youthful excitement associated with the occasion managed to create some magic moments, which the recording certainly reflected, but which did not prove to have a long-lasting value. In retrospect the status of "…one of the most captivating albums in the history of Polish jazz…" is certainly a hype rather that an objective statement. The new album is a complete about face and presents perfectly well-behaved, modern mainstream Jazz, with smooth performances but limited level of enthusiasm. Of course this is a perfectly legitimate approach; considering the time that passed since the debut; maturity, age and experience certainly have their influence. Yet Damasiewicz seems to cling to the past by including on this album older material, like the title tune which originates from 2014 and even one composition already presented on the debut, which perhaps indicates a shortage of new material. But regardless of the past connections, the music on this album is based on rather basic melodic elements, repeated continuously with little variations, except for the ensemble dynamics. The "wall of sound" approach of the debut is now replaced by a more chamber like approach typical of Polish Jazz from the 1960s, and a retro sound and ambience. Damasiewicz dedicates the compositions on the album to the Godfathers of Polish Jazz: Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist and to his teacher Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist, all of whom obviously influenced his musical path, which is well reflected within the music on this album, and which, as already stated, often ventures into the climates invented and developed by his Mentors and which characterize Polish Jazz or at least its early days. The album´s title seems to suggest that the music on this album is the continuation of that magic "Polishness" that Polish Jazz offers at its core; a daring statement by all means, which will be judged by history alone. The individual performances by the leader and the ensemble members are, as expected, highly professional, but if not for the excellent, as always, contributions by Wania, who in the period separating these two recordings made one giant step after another, the music would have became almost banal, a déjà vu of sorts. Considering the astonishing level of the musicianship on the Polish Jazz scene, something more spectacular would have been needed in this music to become "…sublime and unique…". The album´s liner notes, from which all the above quotes are taken, is fascinating, full of hints, allegories and references – definitely worth reading!

Updated: 22/12/2019Posted: 22/12/2019

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ PROJECT ~ IMPROGRAPHIC 1 FOR TUNE 0006 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013 This double CD album captures live performances by the quartet called Piotr Damasiewicz ProjectFind albums by this artist, led by Polish Jazz trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist, with saxophonist Gerard LebikFind albums by this artist, bassist Jakub MielcarekFind albums by this artist (both members of the Polish ensemble EraseFind albums by this artist) and Portuguese drummer Gabriel FerrandiniFind albums by this artist. The music was recorded over a short period of just six days during the quartet´s performances in three clubs, each in a different Polish city. All the music is spontaneously improvised and is credited to all the quartet members. Stylistically the music belongs to the gray area between spontaneous Improvised Music, Free Jazz and contemporary Avant-Garde. The concept of using graphic notations instead of notes, as the basic directions upon which the improvisations are based, is of course quite old and was pioneered decades ago by such Jazz icons as Anthony Braxton as well as several contemporary Classical composers. Although Damasiewicz and his colleagues are obviously very talented musicians, this music leaves me stone cold. Having been listening to this kind of music for the last fifty years, I don´t find any substance here, which justifies listening to this music for over two hours; there is no real innovation, no fire that I can feel, no concept except for total freedom. Even the collective improvisation is quite limited, as the two soloists rarely play together and the rhythm section contributes very little to the overall result. Of course there are some great moments, but overall this is not going anywhere as far as I can hear. There are some differences between the music on the first and on the second CD of this set, with the latter being definitely more engaging to the listener, but still it was mostly a déjà vu of music heard many times before. Although the liner notes hint towards such legendary sources of influence as the British Spontaneous Music EnsembleFind albums by this artist, or Peter BrötzmannFind albums by this artist´s Machine GunFind albums by this artist and other European improvising ensembles, honestly I fail to see the parallels here. Of course this kind of music deserves to be documented and kudos to the For TuneFind albums on this label label for including it in its catalogue. Hardcore Avant-Garde fans will definitely find this interesting, as this kind of music is certainly quite rare these days.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / VIENNESE CONNECTIONS ~ VIENNA SUITE L.A.S. 001 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020 This is an album by Polish Jazz trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with Polish (resident in Vienna) saxophonist Krzysztof KasprzykFind albums by this artist, Austrian bassist Thomas StempkowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer / producer / sound engineer Alex YannilosFind albums by this artist (hence the title). The album presents ten original compositions, all by Damasiewicz, which include four suites (one in two parts) separated by short introduction, interludes and coda. The album is the first release on a new label called L.A.S. (listening and sounding). The music is typical Free Jazz, based on sketchy melodic themes, which are improvised upon by the quartet, a formula which did not change much since the 1960s, causing the music to sound as if it was recorded then rather than today. Such approach was revolutionary at the time and had its charm, but sadly today sounds rather dated and déjà vu. In addition the drumming is way to dominant and heavy, the bass monotonous and the saxophone lackluster, which leaves the trumpet sort of alone in the field not able to save the day. Personally I found very little pleasure or excitement in listening to this music, despite my respect towards Damasiewicz as a player and Polish Jazz Avant-Garde activist, for which he deserves only praise. Of course this is strictly my opinion and others might enjoy this music in full. Damasiewicz recorded several exciting albums for Polish labels over the last decade, but Vienna, as beautiful City as it is, did not serve him well this time IMHO.

Updated: 15/12/2021Posted: 24/12/2020

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / DOMINIK WANIA ~ THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE BUEN CAMINO 5905562254319 (Barcode: 5905562254319) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is a 2CD album by the Polish Jazz / Improvised Music duo of trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist The album presents sixteen tracks, all of which were composed by singer / songwriter Artur OlenderFind albums by this artist and are all instrumental interpretations. The intimate and unconventional duo by two of top Polish Jazz players is a priori quite sensational, and the fact that they would dedicate an entire double album to the songs of a rather anonymous author is even more surprising. But considering the love of the duo format by Damasiewicz and the versatility / total musicality of Wania this experiment has all the potential to offer some incredible music, and I am happy to say that it surpasses my wildest expectations. Despite the fact that both these musicians have an extensive recording legacy under their belt, this album discloses new aspects of their respective Artistry. Damasiewicz clearly shows why he is considered as one of the top Polish Jazz trumpeters, and his approach to playing melody as much as improvising is here the boldest in his entire career. Wania, known for his incredible ability as accompanist, is an ideal partner herein, but definitely steps beyond the “second fiddle” position to become an equal partner, with every touch of the keyboard being as magical, precise, delicate and yet meaningful as humanly possible. This duo is in many ways the epitome of the “Art of the Duo” idiom, in every possible way; the mutual respect, the delicate balance, the telepathic communication and the brilliant partnership make both musicians an inseparable music creating unit. As such they become a whole way greater than just a sum of the parts. The music is overtly meditative and spiritual, serving as ideal source of inspiration to these interpretations. It might prompt listeners to search out the solo albums by Olender, but it definitely stands firmly as a wholly independent Artistic statement of outstanding beauty and immaculate creativity. Overall, this is a sensational album in every respect, showing new facets of the musicians involved, but also confirming their well-earned position on the local scene. The trumpet performances are absolutely unearthly and the expressionism of the duo is irresistible. Definitely one of the top Polish Jazz albums of 2023. Absolutely not to be missed!

Updated: 08/12/2023Posted: 08/12/2023

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / KUBA WOJCIK ~ DIAVOLEZZA L.A.S. 005 ~ POLAND ~ Electronic & Ambient Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022 During the last decade or so Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer / activist Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist managed to amass a considerable volume of recorded music as well as highly-spirited activism, which puts him firmly in the epicenter of the Polish Avant-Garde / Improvised Music / Free Jazz scene. A restless traveler, social adventurer and highly spiritual person, who uses music to reflect his nature and connect with other musicians with similar inclinations. Kuba WojcikFind albums by this artist, a more recent arrival on the Polish Jazz scene, also managed to stir an interest with his Mad ShipFind albums by this artist and Minim ExperimentFind albums by this artist / MinimFind albums by this artist ensembles. This album finds the two musicians improvising in a duo setting in the seclusion of the Swiss Alps, captured during their “Uncool” Artist Residency, inspired by the surroundings and local legends. The album offers just two lengthy pieces, both almost half an hour in duration. Damasiewicz, in addition to his trumpet, plays also harmonium and percussion and vocalizes, and Wojcik, in addition to his guitar, is also in charge of the electronic sound effects. Alicja ChmielewskaFind albums by this artist adds some spoken word parts. The album was released on the L.A.S.Find albums on this label record label, owned by Damasiewcz. The music, or rather the sound sculptures, created by the duo, are highly spiritual, contemplative and meditative, offering a continuous flow of sounds, which offer a minimal variance over time, with a hypnotic effect. Damasiewicz offers impressive vocalese parts, which fit the spirit of the music candidly, in addition to his trumpet playing, which sounds somewhat like the alpine horn, fitting the location. Wojcik creates a solid “wall of sound” effect with his guitar and the electronic background. There is no melody as such or harmonic development in these meditations, but the overall effect is fascinating and engulfing, as long as the listener if willingly submitting to this aural communication. This is undoubtedly the furthest excursion beyond the Jazz idiom undertaken by these two musicians, which of course is perfectly legitimate as far as their inner development is concerned. Breaking barriers, even if done transcendentally rather than implicitly, is always challenging and interesting. Overall, this is a very unusual, even unique experiment by two highly talented musicians, which offers an alternative to the noise and extreme extroversion, which characterizes contemporary music. Obviously not for everybody, but still a highly Artistic and aesthetic piece of originality, for those able to appreciate it. Well done, you fearless champions!

Updated: 01/12/2022Posted: 01/12/2022

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PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ / KUBA WOJCIK ~ KREW L.A.S. 008 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2023 Released: 2023 This is the second album by the Polish Jazz / Improvised Music duo of trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and guitarist / electronics manipulator Kuba WojcikFind albums by this artist. The album presents three tracks, two of which are over sixteen minutes in duration and one is a brief one and half minute piece. The album is dedicated to blood donation and treatment, hence the title. With the establishment of his L.A.S.Find albums on this label label Damasiewicz firmly established his vocation and musical direction, which combines Improvised Music / Ambient soundscapes / Folkloristic traditions in a most unique way. I became almost immediately hooked on his new expressionism, which presents his trumpet playing emerging from the electronic background like sun storms erupting from the star’s surface, and which despite its total abstractionism simply makes perfect sense to me. This album continues these modus operandi and manages to create some of the most profound contemplative music I ever encountered. Obviously the total lack of melodic continuity and harmonic support might create a barrier, which many listeners will probably not be able to cross, but those who manage to do so, should expect deeply emotional sonic rewards. This is total abstract, but so are many other Art forms that I love and so is often also philosophy and even theoretical physics and advanced mathematics, all of which are equally fascinating to me. Is this music at all? Who cares? It is a collection of sound waves, which speak to me as brightly as other forms of sonic communication, including music. That is all that matters. However, I do realize this sonic sorcery is definitely not for everyone, and that is great as well. Overall, this is a deeply moving sonic experience, which demands patience, open-mindedness, tolerance and above all love of sound and an open heart. Ideal music for time travel, when that comes around any time soon ;)

Updated: 05/12/2023Posted: 04/12/2023

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DAREK DOBROSZCZYK ~ SIMPLE DELIGHTS NOT ON LABEL 807 (Barcode: 5902596839529) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is the debut album by Polish Jazz trio led by pianist / composer Darek DobroszczykFind albums by this artist, which also includes bassist Jakub MielcarekFind albums by this artist (who also plays in a free form atmosphere with trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and the EraseFind albums by this artist quartet) and drummer Grzegorz MaslowskiFind albums by this artist (who is also a member of the Bartosz PernalFind albums by this artist / Michal SzkilFind albums by this artist quintet). Guitarist Przemyslaw HanajFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album includes eight tracks, four of which are original compositions by Dobroszczyk, one is by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, one by StingFind albums by this artist and two are standards. The album is kept well within the modern piano trio idiom, as established by such luminaries as the Keith Jarrett trio or Esbjorn Svensson trio, which are listed among the trio´s influences. The music is mostly very melodic and shows melancholic influence popular with Scandinavian modern Jazz composers. But considering the crystal-clear sound and the obvious talents displayed by these young players, one can hope that this is not an attempt to imitate but just a starting point of their venture together. The original compositions are all interesting and well suited for the piano trio format, although it is yet early to determine if they will be unique enough to become the composer´s trademark. The overall aesthetics and atmosphere of the album certainly points out a path, which the trio intends to follow. Considering that this is their debut recording, they certainly show a lot of hope and potential. Although perhaps not very innovative or groundbreaking, this is nevertheless a very well played and beautifully recorded pleasing listening experience, which Jazz enthusiast should enjoy without reservation. It is also a remarkable debut effort and therefore worthy of well deserved praise.

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GARBOWSKI / DAMASIEWICZ / SOOVIK ~ SESTO ELEMENTO FSR 2015/04 (Barcode: 5905279364042) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015 This is a live recording, captured during the Ad Libitum Festival in Warsaw, by an Improvised Music trio comprising of Polish bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist, Polish trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and Swedish drummer William SoovikFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks of freely improvised music, with the composition rights not credited on the album´s packaging, therefore by default assumed to be co-created by the trio members. The album was mixed and mastered by Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist, owner of the Studio Tokarnia, which guaranties a great sound quality. Garbowski is one of my favorite Polish Jazz bass players, who has a proven record not only in the "conventional" Jazz environment as a member of the fabulous RGGFind albums by this artist trio, but also in much more adventurous experiments, some of them involving also Damasiewicz. This recording is however the most radical environment as far as everything I heard so far by Garbowski. This "total" freedom seems to ill-serve his great talent, mostly because although his playing here is as brilliant as always, it is somewhat detached from his partners, who seem to be exploring their own private avenues. Damasiewicz progressed quite consistently towards freely improvised music in the stretch of the last few years and although I loved his playing a few years ago, when it showed promises of catapulting him to the very top of the Polish Jazz trumpet pedestal, his more recent explorations leave me much less enthusiastic. Soovik plays along agreeably with his Polish cohorts, but his contributions to the trio´s effort are overall almost unnoticed, staying way in the background most of the time. Nothing wrong with that of course, but in a free improvised environment the total input is what counts as the final result. There are many interesting moments on this album, some brief highly inspired flashes of sheer genius, but sadly overall while this music was probably a stimulating listening experience, its weight as recorded document is much less significant. As usual the decision do release a piece of recorded music on record is not an easy one and always a very subjective matter.

Updated: 27/10/2016Posted:

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MACIEJ GARBOWSKI ~ ELEMENTS NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010 This is the debut album by the Polish Jazz bassist Maciej GarbowskiFind albums by this artist, known to followers of the Polish Jazz scene as one third of the RBBFind albums by this artist trio. The album is a bold statement in every respect: it is recorded live and by an unconventional (trumpet / bass / drums) trio with young Polish trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and Swedish drummer Jon FaltFind albums by this artist. The album comprises of a continuous suite of mostly improvised music, which includes some composed motifs by Garbowski and Damasiewicz, sometimes used only in part and sometimes quoted in full. These motifs serve as points of reference in the continual conversation between the musicians, which is obviously spontaneous but seems to have a sense of almost telepathic consistency. Although separated into six tracks on the album, this is definitely one piece of music, mood and celebration of freedom. The technical proficiency of these young musicians is simply astounding and their ability to generate alternative sounds on their respective instruments is awe-inspiring. Damasiewicz and his trumpet, which at times remind us of Don CherryFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, taking the absolutely best lessons from both, is simply phenomenal. Hopefully his future recordings will give us more glimpses of his talent, since judging by this recording he is definitely heading in the right direction. Garbowski and his bass are virtuosic and enormously sensitive in this difficult setting, gluing the music together and supplying the anchor to stability, without restricting it in any sense. Falt and his drums, which are already familiar to Jazz connoisseurs from his work with pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist, is the icing on the cake, ornamenting the music with delicate caressing touches on the cymbals or energetic full-kit explosions, al done with taste and elegance. Overall this is a brilliant piece of Free Jazz, perfectly executed and full of inspired, serious music, which easily compares to the best recordings of this type done anywhere else in the world. If the future fate of Polish Jazz (and European Jazz in general) is in the hands of young musicians like these three, the older generation can rest assured that it is in good hands indeed. Polish Jazz fans should definitely seek out this gem as soon as possible. Brilliant stuff!

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MICHAL JAROS ~ FLOATING BRIDGES MULTIKULTI MPJ 023 (Barcode: 5907529223727) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018 This is the debut album as a leader by Polish Jazz bassist / composer Michal JarosFind albums by this artist recorded in a quintet setting with trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Maciej ObaraFind albums by this artist, pianist / organist Jan SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, six of which are original compositions by Jaros (the title track appears in two versions) and one is a contemporary standard. Five of the tracks on this album feature the full quintet (or quartet in one case) and the remaining three feature a piano trio. Although all the music is quite mainstream oriented, with clear melodic themes, the quintet / quartet tracks are more open and less rhythmically restricted, and serve as basis for improvisations by Damasiewicz and / or Obara, but without crossing over into more ambitious Improvised Music vistas, which one might have expected from the presence of these two musicians, who not so long ago were the torch bearers of the young Polish Avant-Garde, roaring like mighty lions, and in time assumed a comfortable role of domesticated pussycats. As a result, the tracks that feature the piano trio with Smoczynski, Jaros and Miskiewicz only are way more coherent and focused than the quintet tracks, showing the wonderful interplay between the trio members, Smoczynski´s virtuosity, which is sadly rarely appreciated by the local "critics", and the rhythm section at its best. Although Jaros´ compositions are all very solid and well structured, in the trio format they receive the most advantageous treatment, even if they are all worthy of prize and respect. Overall this is an uneven album, obviously played by an excellent team but somewhat lacking focus. At times the music flows beautifully, especially when the piano trio is at the helm, and at other times it is sort of dragging on, as if looking for a direction. Of course it is still way better that the average Jazz album with the "Made in the USA" sticker, but Polish Jazz is often way better than this.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 21/03/2019

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MAREK KADZIELA ADHD ~ IN BLOOM FOR TUNE 0079 (Barcode: 5902768701807) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015 This is the debut album by an international Jazz quartet ADHDFind albums by this artist, led by Polish Guitarist Marek KadzielaFind albums by this artist with German bass clarinetist Rudi MahallFind albums by this artist and a Danish rhythm section: bassist Andreas LangFind albums by this artist and drummer Kasper Tom ChristiansenFind albums by this artist – the latter three being all members of the excellent FUSKFind albums by this artist quartet. Two distinguished Polish Jazz musicians participate as guests: saxophonist Maciej ObaraFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions (one appears in two versions), all by Kadziela and one standard by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist. Although free spirited and unconventional, the music is perfectly well rounded and aesthetically pleasing, flirting with Free Jazz and Improvising Music but also presenting melodic motifs and straight forward progressions. Across the board this music is quite accessible even to listeners who are embedded within modern mainstream Jazz. Kadziela´s guitar playing on this album is quite different from his earlier recordings, and most of the time it is pretty straight forward, almost acoustic, and avoids the usage of electronics and heavy sound effects. He manages to completely keep away from the dreaded Fusionist banalities that most modern guitar players suffer from, which is truly praiseworthy. Therefore it is perhaps the first time the listener can truly appreciate his ability to play melody and complex improvisations, which sound perfectly clear and vivid. The solo guitar piece on this album is definitely one of its absolute highlights. The contributions by the other members of the quartet, as well as those by the guests, are all excellent as well. I have already written much about the FUSK quartet and these are some of my favorite European musicians, so their performances here are hardly surprising. The Lang / Christiansen rhythm section in one of the top of its kind at the moment and Mahall´s legendary status is already well established. Kadziela couldn´t have found better partners for his musical explorations anywhere else to be honest. The two Polish guests are also masters of their trade and the tracks that feature their contributions add generously to the diversity of this album. I admit to having digestion problems with some of Kadziela´s earlier recordings, but I completely love this one, and I am very happy to say so. This music makes perfect sense to me, worms up my brain cells and keeps me smiling. For me it definitely is the best piece of music I have heard, that he produced. But of course the future is ahead of us…

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ALEKSANDRA KUTRZEPA ~ PUSTO NOC NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Avant-Garde Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is the fourth album by the Polish Jazz violinist / vocalist / composer Aleksandra KutrzepaFind albums by this artist, recorded with her quartet, which also includes guitarist Bartlomiej GarczynskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Michal StudniarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Robert KutrzepaFind albums by this artist. Trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist and two female vocalists appear as guests. The album presents seven original compositions, all by the leader. The album continues Kutrzepa’s development towards the Avant-Garde facet of the young Polish Jazz scene, this time also adding a Jazz-World Fusion accent, since the album was recorded during field research in the Kashubia region, the music of which seems to be a strong source of inspiration to many Polish Jazz musicians. The theme is a bit somber, as it reflects Kashubian traditional lamentations sung during a wake in honor of the deceased. The traditional melodies are sung briefly by the vocalists and then expanded into lengthy improvisations by Kutrzepa and Damasiewicz, who fits this musical environment like a proverbial glove, since his current work is also concentrated around World music, field research, etc. The rest of the quartet provide another facet of the music, with Garczynski’s excellent guitar work adding a scorching Fusiony tinge and the rhythm section balancing skillfully between the more rhythmic and the Free / open environments. All the musicians offer a splendid instrumental work, which continuously keeps the listener on the edge. Kutrzepa’s development as a violinist is no less than astounding and is by now unmatched on the more open side of the local scene. The presence of Damasiewicz on this album is a stupendous idea, which catalyzes effects never previously present on Kutrzepa’s earlier albums. He is not “stealing” the show, but pushes her to make another step towards highly intensive improvised crescendos, which are breathtaking. Perhaps a duo album would be a good idea? Overall, this is a wonderful, highly atmospheric and reflective piece of music, which requires attentive listening and open-mindedness, but pays back abundantly to the dedicated listener. The music will probably penetrate as deeply as it deserves only on consecutive listening session, but the patience is definitely worth the effort. This is definitely one of the most impressive Polish Jazz albums of 2022 - highly recommended and kudos to you, My Lady, for doing your own thing, which is rarely the easiest solution. Hats off!

Updated: 24/12/2022Posted: 24/12/2022

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GRZEGORZ LESIAK ESSENCE / PIOTR DAMASIEWICZ ~ ON THE WAY L.A.S. 006 ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is an album recorded live by the trio EssenceFind albums by this artist, led by Polish guitarist Grzegorz LesiakFind albums by this artist with Spanish bassist Alex ReviriegoFind albums by this artist and drummer Vasco TrillaFind albums by this artist, which was expanded to a quartet with the addition of Polish trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist. The album presents four lengthy tracks and was released on the L.A.S.Find albums on this label label, owned by Damasiewicz. The music is completely improvised and offers a sonic / atmospheric experience, excluding any conventional melodic continuity, which of course is not unusual for Improvised Music. However, for listeners familiar with such intense sound explorations, it proves to be highly fascinating. The musicians utilize unconventional approach to their instruments, which often sound completely not as they are “supposed” to sound, especially so in case of Lesiak and Damasiewicz, who also adds some vocal layers. For Damasiewicz this recording is a step aside from his “back to nature” sonic excursions, which he developed in the last few years, taking him back to his Free Jazz / Improvised Music period from a decade or so ago, but with a much more introvert and intimate approach, with the “less is more” attitude in the helm. Lesiak is the biggest surprise herein, leaving the role of the Fusion guitarist and leader of the excellent TatvamasiFind albums by this artist ensemble if favor of this highly improvisational environment, although early signs of the forthcoming transformation were already evident on the last (so far) album by the ensemble “The Third Ear MusicFind albums with this title”. Overall, this is a fascinating piece of Improvised Music, strictly for the connoisseurs of the idiom, but full of great ensemble playing and striking individual contributions by all four participants. This is “something else” by every standard, and fearless explorers of the sound space are wholeheartedly invited to take a plunge!

Updated: 10/09/2023Posted: 10/09/2023

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FRANCISZEK POSPIESZALSKI QUINTET ~ JAZZ.PL VOL.3 POLSKIE RAADIO 2417 (Barcode: 5907812247140) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022 This is the fourth album by Polish Jazz bassist / composer Franciszek PospieszalskiFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with trumpeter Piotr DamasiewiczFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Marek PospieszalskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Grzegorz TarwidFind albums by this artist and drummer Bartosz SzablowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents arrangements of four compositions by Charles MingusFind albums by this artist and one by Jack WalrathFind albums by this artist, all of which originate from the seminal Mingus albums “Changes OneFind albums with this title” and “Changes TwoFind albums with this title” released in 1975. The album was recorded live by Polish Radio during a series of concerts entitled Jazz.pl, hence the title. I have to admit that at the first glace it looked to me as a very cheeky idea to undertake a “face to face” with some of the Jazz “holy ground”: an absolute peak of Mingus career as composer and bandleader and classic American Jazz legacy. These young Polish cats will have to prove being worthy of even playing this music, let alone playing around with it. It is with great relief and satisfaction that I find this attempt to be successful and astonishingly creative. The quintet manages successfully to Europeanize the music, by adding many minor, by highly significant touches, which appear all over this music quite unexpectedly. These highly skilled musicians have a lot of fun on the way and show clearly that they are able to take these wonderful compositions to new places, which Mingus would have never even thought of, but I am pretty sure he would have approved of. I am sending this music to my Friend Jack Walrath to hear his input on it, and I can imagine his face when he listens to these interpretations. With all due respect to Franciszek Pospieszalski for the idea and initiative, the true hero of this album is obviously Tarwid, who is in charge of most of the modifications via his charmingly brilliant piano work, twisting the entire aesthetics of this music. But to be fair, all five of these young devils play superbly from start to finish. Overall, this is an absolutely marvelous album, which shows how a fifty years old music, as genius as it originally was, can be revitalized, expanded and subtly redirected, all by using European Jazz shticks and tricks, to became even more brilliant than originally conceived. I bow my head in awe and respect!

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

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