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  | JOHN SURMAN ~ WORDS UNSPOKEN
ECM 2789 (Barcode: 602458620351) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2024
This is a studio album by the iconic British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader John SurmanFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with British guitarist Rob LuftFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Norway) vibraphonist Rob WaringFind albums by this artist and Norwegian drummer Thomas StronenFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded at the legendary Rainbow Studio in Oslo, engineered by Martin AbrahamsenFind albums by this artist, who replaced Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist following his demise. The album presents ten tracks, all of which are original compositions by Surman.
The album reflects Surman’s long time connection with the Norwegian Jazz scene, not only as far as playing with Norwegian Jazz musicians and recording in Norway, but also his obvious affinity to the Nordic sound, which is particularly overwhelming on this album.
The music is very melodic, but the compositions and instrumentations are minimalist, very subdued and reflective, creating a lethargic atmosphere, which is of course characteristic of the Nordic Jazz sound. But of course Surman’s recordings in the last couple of decades all had already this tendency, so the consequence is not very surprising.
Surman is the dominating soloist and his absolute control of performance is phenomenal, completely untouched by the flow of time. The three accompanying musicians are masters of their trade, showing remarkable restrain and obvious respect towards the leader, leaving him in the spotlight at all time.
Overall, this is another tour de force by the great Master, one of the greatest European Jazz musicians of all time, who seems to be unstoppable and still in perfect condition. We are extremely lucky to be able to enjoy the fruits of his labor for such a long period of time, and of course pray for more of such bliss to be sent upon us.
| | Updated: 20/04/2024Posted: 20/04/2024 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
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