Record Reviews
33 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | GORDON BECK ~ EXPERIMENTS WITH POPS
ART OF LIFE 1001 (Barcode: 804640100126) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2001
Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist is one of the true forefathers of modern British and European Jazz; a pioneer and revolutionary in every sense and a giant musician, who managed to free himself from the boundaries imposed by the American Jazz tradition and take the music a step further to a new sphere. What is even more remarkable and amazing is the fact that in contrast to most British and European musicians, who took their emancipation from the rigors of the past towards Free Jazz and Improvised Music, Beck remained firmly within the seemingly “mainstream” form, playing melodically and in strict time, and yet so much “out there” that for people who are able to hear the difference it’s truly staggering. Beck first came to prominence when he joined the group led by British Jazz legend Tubby HayesFind albums by this artist in 1962 and remained with him for several years as his regular pianist, performing and recording some of the most remarkable albums in the British Jazz history. Since 1967 Beck started to record as a leader and his trio became the “house band” of the famous Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist’s London club. By the end of the 1960s he took part in the development of the British Jazz-Rock Fusion, playing with Phil WoodsFind albums by this artist in the European Rhythm MachineFind albums by this artist and later with NucleusFind albums by this artist. He became increasingly involved with other musicians from the European scene, especially with many French Jazz players (an association that thrives to these very days). His extensive discography accumulated over the years, both as leader and sideman, is a formidable body of work, which stands out as one of the most consistently excellent and creative. This album was Beck’s second (out of three) release on the tiny independent Major MinorFind albums on this label label, which in time became one of the most sought after British Jazz collector’s items. For the recording Beck expanded his trio (Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist – bass and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – drums) to a quartet, with the addition of no other that guitarist John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, known at the time as “Johnny”. Apart from the fact that this is one of the very few early McLaughlin recordings, and therefore of immense historical value, the entire quartet is probably one of the strongest and most extraordinary European ensembles, pioneering the European approach of collective playing. McLaughlin’s brilliant arpeggios, Oxley’s prophetic time keeping away from time, Clyne’s innovative bass explorations and Beck’s flights all over the keyboard collectively create an new amalgam of sounds, taking the music to a new dimension, previously unexplored. How ironic, considering that the material consists entirely from Pop songs popular at the time (hence the album’s title), but in the hands of these players the music becomes truly experimental, as promised by the album’s title. The album’s producer Ray HorricksFind albums by this artist writes in the original liner notes: “This could be the most creative Jazz quartet album ever recorded in Europe… previous quartet recordings in London, or on the Continent, and including the best, have consisted of a rhythm section accompanying a leading soloist; whereas this one features a genuine collective development along lines which no other group, except Gary BurtonFind albums by this artist’s in America, has yet proceeded”. How perceptive and prophetic… Kudos to Paul KohlerFind albums by this artist of Art Of LifeFind albums on this label Records for bringing this timeless masterpiece back to circulation. This music, 40 years after it was recorded, sounds better and more exciting than most of what one hears in contemporary Jazz. Absolutely essential!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORDON BECK ~ GYROSCOPE
ART OF LIFE 1003 (Barcode: 804640100324) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2002
Pianist / composer Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, one of the true forefathers of modern British and European Jazz, has been a source of inspiration and musical joy to Jazz connoisseurs since the 1960s. His formidable technique and more importantly overwhelming musicality are completely unique and unrivaled. This, his 4th recording as a leader, deserves a special notice for many reasons. Stylistically it is somewhat atypical to Beck’s usual output, as it marks his exploration of “free form” Jazz, which was enjoying a period of unparalleled prosperity in Britain at the time this album was recorded, with momentous recordings by other British piano giants like Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Keith TippettFind albums by this artist and others. However, in Beck’s case the “free form” remains somewhat tamed by his immense love of melody, thus creating one of the most formidable examples of early European “free form”, which even the most conservative Jazz listener can easily savor. This is Beck’s genius, but the credit must also go to his two partners: bassist Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The trio plays here in complete unity, with telepathic interplay and cohesiveness. Clyne is a monster player, incredibly melodic and with a sublime sense of rhythm and Oxley is a complete genius, the most intelligent and technically proficient drummer to come out of the British Isles. This is a marvelous opportunity to hear Oxley’s work at the time he was still playing “time”, although of course in his very special way of doing so, with the “time” being felt rather that actually played, since he is all over his kit doing stuff that is not recommended to be tried at home. This album was originally released on the tiny MorganFind albums on this label Records (owned by the famous Morgan Recording Studios in London) and disappeared from the shelves soon after, becoming one of the British Jazz most sought after collector’s items. The reissue on Art Of LifeFind albums on this label brings back to life a masterpiece of immense importance, which is an essential piece of the complex musical puzzle created in Britain by the end of the 1960s. I can’t imagine any serious British / European Jazz fan not having this momentous recording in their collection. Beyond essential!
| | | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | GORDON BECK ~ JUBILATION!: TRIOS, QUARTETS, AND SEPTETS IN SESSION 1964-1984
TURTLE 501 (Barcode: 5013929580107) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 - 1984 Released: 2018
This is an archival release collecting live recordings made by various ensembles led by the seminal British Jazz pianist / composer / bandleader Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, one of the key figures of the revolutionary British Jazz movement of the 1960s, who died in 2011. The recordings present Beck in different settings, from solo piano to a septet, spanning two crucial decades in which Beck and the entire British Jazz scene metamorphosed from a copycat of American Jazz to a bold, adventurous and pioneering musical movement with its own values and aesthetics, leading the rest of Europe towards the same process of emancipation.
On the recordings included in this release Beck is accompanied by the crème de la crème of the British Jazz heroes; bassists Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist, Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist and Mick HuttonFind albums by this artist, drummers Johnny ButtsFind albums by this artist, Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist and Steve ArguellesFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Ray WarleighFind albums by this artist and Stan SulzmannFind albums by this artist, trombonist Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. Of the twenty eight pieces performed, only three are standards and the rest are original compositions by Beck.
The music moves in a multidimensional space-time continuum, between traditional American Jazz and modern European Jazz, between standards and original compositions and between solo piano and ensemble playing, but always beautifully focused on Beck´s superb feel of melody and rhythm and his exquisite perception of harmony.
The trio recordings, which open the first of the three CDs included in this Box Set, present a transition, which presents the quantum jumps separated from each other by two years gaps (1964-1966-1968), by which Beck and the trio move from a Bill EvansFind albums by this artist inspired swing perfection to a much more open, almost free playing, emphasized mostly by the change of the drummer from Butts to Oxley, one of the most important Jazz drummers of all time. By the mid 1970s the trio will be brought to perfection with the inclusion of Mathewson, and rechristened to MOBFind albums by this artist (Mathewson / Oxley / Beck) which can be heard on the second CD.
The septet recordings, which take the rest of the first CD, are rather atypical in Beck´s career, as he preferred small ensembles, show Beck´s arranging skills, which he was able to perfect as the resident composer / arranger for the Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist´s all-star band, which included six of the seven members of the septet (John SurmanFind albums by this artist is the missing one).
The latest (chronologically) recordings present a quintet session, which is led by the mature musician Beck has become in the meantime, are presented on the third CD. Beck´s solo material is presented on the second and third CDs.
Overall the Box Set is full of magnificent music, diverse stylistically, but always perfectly executed, which presents a portrait of a great Artist. Considering that all these recordings are previously unreleased, this in an absolute treasure chest and a historic document of the outmost importance. All the recordings were beautifully remastered and offer a first class listening experience.
The Box Set, which was released by the reanimated TurtleFind albums on this label Records, includes an extensive booklet written by Simon SpillettFind albums by this artist, which is intelligent, informative and well researched, a true model for what all releases of this kind should offer those who buy the product.
Absolutely essential to all British / European Jazz connoisseurs!
| | Updated: 16/02/2019Posted: 15/02/2019 | CD 3 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY ~ IN THE EVENINGS OUT THERE
ECM 1488 (Barcode: 731451746925) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1993
Brilliant album by US pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist with a superb quartet, which includes bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and two British Jazz Masters: saxophonist John SurmanFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – a brilliant group of players that sadly didn´t record together again so far. These players are ideal partners to Bley´s deep lyricism and atmospheric approach to music. The album includes twelve relatively short pieces, composed by all four participants, and played in solo, duet, trio and quartet settings. Altogether a magnificent album, although not an easy listening experience to less refined listeners. These are the moments worth living for in music!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | PAUL BLEY ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1027 (Barcode: 8052405141064) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1983 - 1994 Released: 2013
This superb Box Set collects all the recordings by legendary American (Canadian by birth) pianist / composer Paul BleyFind albums by this artist released the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. The set includes ten albums (one not listed on the box´s packaging and subsequently explained as a bonus album) featuring various recordings by Bley as a leader or co-leader over a span of twelve years (1983–1994) made alongside the top Jazz players active in the 1980s and 1990s and is therefore a superb document of the era.
Bley (born 1932), one of my favorite musicians of all times, was one of the pioneers of Free Jazz in the late 1950s, and continues to be a most creative and innovative figure on the American Jazz scene, although he is less active lately, no doubt due to his age. His approach to piano was always extraordinarily unique and just a few notes are usually enough to recognize his playing. In his life he released over a hundred albums, which featured the crème de la crème of Jazz musician of the last seven decades.
Bley was always a very intimate musician and clearly preferred solo, duos or trios than bigger lineups. Of the ten albums included here, one is a solo album, four are duo albums, three are trio albums, and the last two are quartet albums. The participating musicians include drummers: George Cross McDonaldFind albums by this artist, Barry AltschulFind albums by this artist, Paul MotianFind albums by this artist and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, bassists: Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist, Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist, Red MitchellFind albums by this artist, Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist and Furio Di CastroFind albums by this artist, guitarists John ScofieldFind albums by this artist and John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist, and finally clarinetists / saxophonists Jimmy GuiffreFind albums by this artist and Keshavan MaslakFind albums by this artist.
This music is an absolute must to all Jazz enthusiasts, and the fact that it is available again is pure joy. Bley is a genius composer and instrumentalist and his legacy is well worth to be preserved and studied by the new generation of Jazz musicians.
Remastered, mini-sleeved and with a great bargain price – this Box Set is an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 05/05/2020Posted: 26/12/2015 | CD 10 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANTHONY BRAXTON ~ SEVEN COMPOSITIONS (TRIO) 1989
HATOLOGY 658 (Barcode: 752156065821) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2009
This is a long overdue reissue of the legendary album by American musician / composer / bandleader Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist, one of the most iconic figures of the late 20th Century Free Jazz and Avant-Garde music scene and probably the most important Jazz pioneer in the post John ColtraneFind albums by this artist era. The album captures a recording of a trio, one of Braxton´s favorite settings, with him playing saxophones, clarinet and flute, accompanied by German bassist Adelhard RoidingerFind albums by this artist and legendary British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The music includes five original compositions by Braxton, one by Oxley and one standard. The level of virtuosity in interplay is simply astounding and this album surely deserves an honorable place in any serious Free Jazz collection. The intercontinental meeting of improvising forces and talents works beautifully, soaring to previously undiscovered heights. This is an absolutely essential example of Free Jazz, for those who are connoisseurs of the genre, which is not to be missed, especially for the second time around.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BILL DIXON ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1009 (Barcode: 8024709115621) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1980 - 1998 Released: 2010
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary American trumpeter / composer Bill DixonFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Dixon needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that his output until his death in 2010 epitomizes the idioms of Free Jazz / improvised Music and places him among the leaders of the genre. The music ranges in format from septet to duets with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. Other musicians playing on these nine albums include: trumpeters Arthur BrooksFind albums by this artist and Stephen HaynesFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Stephen HorensteinFind albums by this artist, bassists Alan SilvaFind albums by this artist, Mario PavoneFind albums by this artist, William ParkerFind albums by this artist and British bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist (Silva and Pavone / Guy and Parker play as double-bass section), drummers Laurence CookFind albums by this artist and Tony Oxley and others. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 12/04/2020Posted: | CD 9 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ THE TWO FACES OF FAME / THE THIRD FACE OF FAME
BGO 708 (Barcode: 5017261207081) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1968 Released: 2006
Contrary to popular opinion, British singer / songwriter / keyboardist Georgie FameFind albums by this artist was born to be a Jazz singer. Although his early career developed during the fabulous late 1960s and was mostly visible on the Pop scene, with several hit singles, his albums were another story entirely. Backed up by the cream of the crop of British Jazz musicians, Fame delivered his superbly sensitive vocals with elegance, always spiced with a dash of the typical British humor. Looking at the list of musicians playing on these two albums one can find such names as John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist (guitar), Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist (drums), Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist (piano), Jeff ClyneFind albums by this artist (bass), Peter KingFind albums by this artist (sax), Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Lynn DobsonFind albums by this artist (sax) and many more – a list that reads like a who´s who of the burgeoning late 1960s UK Jazz scene. Fame tackles quite a few vocal standards on these album, many of the great American songbook classics as well as some newer songs by British composers. Overall these two albums are a great example of how great music lasts forever and the 40 years that passed since they were recorded seem to make it even better, given the shape of contemporary music mayhem. Absolutely delightful!
| | | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | FASOLI / GOODRICK / DANIELSSON / OXLEY ~ BODIES
AZZURRA 1327 (Barcode: 8028980739323) ~ ITALY ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1989 - 1990 Released: 2018
This is a reissue of an album by an international Jazz quartet led by Italian saxophonist / composer Claudio FasoliFind albums by this artist, with American guitarist Mick GoodrickFind albums by this artist, Swedish bassist Palle DanielssonFind albums by this artist and British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight tracks, all of which are original compositions by Fasoli.
The music is a wonderful example of modern European Jazz, based on wonderful melodic themes and performed with a lot of Freedom and space for individual expression within the quartet setting. All four members of the quartet are true Masters of their instruments and have gained a lot of experience playing with top Jazz musicians for many years. Although Goodrick comes from the US, his approach to Jazz has always been closer to European Jazz that most of his compatriots, and his rapport with the three Europeans is completely natural and open-minded.
The presence of Oxley is especially interesting here, both in the role of a “traditional” drummer and as a great innovator, playing avant-garde oriented parts, which by the time this album was recorded was his main area of interest. Any way one approaches his contributions here, those are absolutely stellar of course.
Goodrick uses the guitar synthesizer in addition to electric guitar, which adds to the unique sound of the quartet. Danielsson is the absolute anchor for the music here and his brilliant pulsation keep the music afloat. Fasoli is excellent, as always, but his ability to weave the exquisite melodic themes is especially important herein to give the album a coherent direction.
Overall, this is a little known gem, which deserves to be discovered, offering brilliant musicianship and highly advanced approach to the Jazz ensemble as a cooperative unit, able to make music that makes sense even when the traditional framework is almost completely abandoned. This is a great addition to any serious European Jazz record collection.
| | Updated: 24/06/2023Posted: 24/06/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MICHAEL GIBBS ~ MICHAEL GIBBS / TANGLEWOOD 63
VOCALION 4253 (Barcode: 765387425326) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2005
Composer / arranger / bandleader / trombonist Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist was born in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). In his early twenties he moved to the US, where he studied both Jazz and Classical music at the Berklee College of Music, the Boston Conservatory and the Tanglewood Institute, where he studied with renowned classical composers Aaron CoplandFind albums by this artist and Lukas FossFind albums by this artist. In 1965 Gibbs settled in London and immediately was absorbed into the burgeoning local Jazz scene, first as a trombonist, and later when he stopped to play the instrument, as a composer, arranger and bandleader. Over the years he assembled an impressive body of work as a composer, which has been considered as some of the most innovative and daring forays into the fusion of Classical, Jazz and Rock. He recorded many of his compositions using large ensembles, which comprised of the best British and later also European Jazz musicians, all of which are considered masterpieces. He also composed music for cinema and created many incredible arrangements for albums in the Rock and Jazz areas. This album combines his two first albums, composed for and performed by huge ensembles including brass, string and rhythm sections and including around 30 musicians. The names of the participants resemble the “who’s who” of the British Jazz scene at the time and the main soloists are: Chris SpeddingFind albums by this artist, Ray RussellFind albums by this artist (guitar), Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist (sax), Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist (piano), Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, Brian OdgersFind albums by this artist (bass), Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, John MarshallFind albums by this artist (drums) and many more. The music is quite incredible of course, very difficult to classify, as it flows between genres and musical landscapes disregarding any preconceptions. Gibbs is a master at creating an internal tension in his scores, which is often expressed by the role the brass and rhythm sections play against each other, with the brass section representing the jazzy elements and the rhythm section (especially the guitar) the rock elements. The music is often contemplative and moves slowly, similarly to many of the modern Classical music pieces, influenced obviously by the composer’s teachers and resembling sometimes even the work of Philip GlassFind albums by this artist. Definitely not easy listening, but a highly rewarding intellectual experience. For the lack of a better alternative I’ve decided to classify it under Jazz, but this music is truly beyond classification and constitutes a class of its own. Fascinating!
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  | JACHNA / MAZURKIEWICZ / BUHL ~ GOD`S BODY
AUDIO CAVE 2018/006 (Barcode: 5905669566551) ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2018
This is the second album by the Polish Improvising Music trio comprising of trumpeter Wojciech JachnaFind albums by this artist, bassist Jacek MazurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Jacek BuhlFind albums by this artist. Jachna and Mazurkiewicz employ also various electronic devices to produce sound. The album presents seven original compositions, co-credited to all members of the trio.
The music is an organic development of the music on the trio´s debut album, spontaneous yet well organized, undoubtedly influenced by the fact that it was recorded in the studio rather than live, where Improvising Music is usually recorded. This time the music is certainly more relaxed and often even lyrical, and the use of electronics is subtle and more sophisticated.
Jachna, with over two dozen albums under his belt as a leader, co-leader and band member, is certainly emerging as one of the leading personalities on the Polish Improvising Music scene, not only as a superb performer but also as a "mover" who constantly seeks for new opportunities to develop and create new musical environments. Jachna´s steady progress over time, which I have been lucky to follow at first hand since several years, is a wonderful chronology of his personal development, as well as a superb illustration of the renaissance of the Polish Jazz scene, which he exemplifies perhaps better than most.
The cooperation between Jachna and Buhl also goes back several years, and their phenomenal telepathic bond is clearly present on this album. Buhl takes the notion of "drumming" way beyond the conventional concept, with puts the traditional role of time keeping completely out of the picture. His contributions on this album are as much revolutionary and innovative as the work of Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist in the late 1960s. Mazurkiewicz completes the molecular bond of the trio with his beautifully harmonic work and rhythmic pulsations, which are crucial in absence of traditional drum parts.
Overall this is a beautiful and highly rewarding musical experience, which in spite of its Improvised Music labeling, is quite accessible to a large Jazz loving audience. For the many fans these musicians already have, this is a must of course, but at the same time this is a great opportunity to get exposed to some superb music, regardless of stylistic connotations. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 24/07/2018Posted: 24/07/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BARTLOMIEJ OLES / TOMASZ DABROWSKI ~ CHAPTERS
FENOMMEDIA 012 (Barcode: 5907604327128) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015
Trumpet / drums duo recordings are a very special chapter in Jazz history and they include some fascinating interplays recorded over time by American Jazz musicians, such as the legendary Don CherryFind albums by this artist / Ed BlackwellFind albums by this artist or Max RoachFind albums by this artist / Dizzy GillespieFind albums by this artist recordings. Some American / European trumpet / drums duos are also worth mentioning, such as the Leo SmithFind albums by this artist / Gunter SommerFind albums by this artist, Dave DouglasFind albums by this artist / Han BenninkFind albums by this artist or Bill DixonFind albums by this artist / Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, documented on their respective recordings. On the contemporary Polish Jazz scene this relatively rare pairing of instruments seems to be quite favorable, with such excellent examples like Wojciech JachnaFind albums by this artist / Jacek BuhlFind albums by this artist, Artur MajewskiFind albums by this artist / Kuba SucharFind albums by this artist and others. Trumpeter / composer Tomasz DabrowskiFind albums by this artist already has one trumpet / drums album under his arm, recorded with the American drummer Tyshawn SoreyFind albums by this artist and now he joins the brilliant drummer / composer Bartlomiej OlesFind albums by this artist in a new trumpet / drums duo, captured on this album.
Bartlomiej Oles is of course known to all Polish Jazz connoisseurs as half of the Oles Brothers rhythm section, which in time achieved a legendary status as one of the best modern Jazz rhythm sections around, but this album focuses on his work as composer. Of the ten pieces presented on this album, Oles composed eight, and co-composed one with Dabrowski, with the remaining piece, which closes the set, being a Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist composition.
In comparison to the trumpet / drums albums listed in the opening paragraph, this recording is definitely the most lyrical and deeply melodic of them all. Oles demonstrated his lyricism and love of melody over the years in the numerous compositions he contributed to the vast Oles Brothers recorded legacy. Additionally, his treatment of the drums as a melodic instrument has always been his particular trademark, as he almost never simply sets a rhythm but rather plays the drums in par with his musical partners in various ensembles. The intimacy of just two instruments is an ideal opportunity to place these compositional and performance qualities at the center of the listener´s attention.
Dabrowski, whose meteoric rise to fame is fully justified, seems to be an ideal partner aiding Oles to achieve his goals. His virtuosic attack, combined with the intrinsic lyricism, turn his trumpet into a seemingly unlimited tool able to express an enormously diverse set of emotions, from whisper to shout, anger to joy, despair to mellow melancholy. Playing side by side with Oles, who is of course more experienced and mature, pushed Dabrowski really hard to reach and than cross his limits, which resulted in the best performance of his life so far. Oles managed to catalyze and crystallize Dabrowski´s unique style and mannerism, molding them into a perfect musical entity.
There is so much music on this album that a true comprehension and appreciation of it requires several listening sessions even for the most experienced music lovers. Peeling off the layers of aesthetic and emotional essence captured herein by these two Masters is a delightful and rewarding experience. There is no doubt that this is a monumental achievement in every sense and a model of lofty, almost spiritual communication between an Artist and his audience.
Personally I have a deep satisfaction from the fact that I have always considered these two musicians as representatives of what is best about Polish Culture in general and Polish Jazz in particular: honesty, consistency and a proper usage of a God given talent. Thank you both for such a wonderful gift!
| | Updated: 02/01/2017Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY OXLEY ~ BEAMING
CONFRONT 13 ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2019 Released: 2020
This is an album by iconic British Free Jazz / Improvising Music pioneer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist recorded with German percussionist Stefan HolkerFind albums by this artist, who is a member of Oxley’s Celebration OrchestraFind albums by this artist. Oxley is in charge of the album’s concept and electronics, whereas Holker plays acoustic percussion. The album presents a six-part improvised sonic painting divided into what Oxley calls “frames”.
Aged 81 at the time of the recording (2019) Oxley still fronts the European Music Avant-Garde as boldly as he did for many decades, proving that age is after all a state of mind, rather than a chronological phenomenon.
The music is, as expected, completely associative and the listener remains at liberty to interpret whatever comes into his mind at any given moment. Nevertheless, the aural experience presents a coherent continuum of sounds, which rather than telling a story tries to induce the storytelling within the listener’s brain, which results in as many different stories as individual listeners, or even listening sessions. The fact that the music is created solely by percussion instruments is insignificant as far as the result is concerned, since it sounds like performed by a full orchestra.
Oxley’s music is as unique as music can be and obviously is not able to communicate with everybody. It takes a lot of openness and submissiveness to embrace this music and let it into one’s mind and heart, which are not very common characteristics among music listeners, especially these days. But for those who are able to embrace his music, Oxley is a true Magician.
It is truly rewarding to see / hear Oxley being active and creative again and although Improvised Music usually works much better live that on record, this is one of the few cases where the music stands proudly on its own without the physical presence of the musicians. Of course all those who know Oxley’s music need little encouragement to reach out and grab a copy of this Gem!
| | Updated: 10/02/2021Posted: 10/02/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY OXLEY ~ FEBRUARY PAPERS
DISCUS 099 (Barcode: 5051078983028) ~ UK ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2020
This is a reissue, first time on CD, of an iconic album by British Jazz drummer / composer / bandleader Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions by Oxley, recorded by three lineups: a quartet with violinists Philipp WachsmannFind albums by this artist and David BourneFind albums by this artist and bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist (two tracks), a trio with Wachsmann and guitarist Ian BrightonFind albums by this artist (two tracks) and finally solo percussion and electronics (three tracks).
Oxley held a pivotal position in British Jazz since the mid 1960s, when he became the house drummer at Ronnie Scott´s club in London, which gave him an opportunity to play with the visiting prominent American Jazz stars and top British Jazz musicians. He was highly respected and always considered as truly extraordinary player, with his own perception of the role of drums within the Jazz idiom, but more importantly the concept of Jazz itself and its transformation into Improvised Music, which was developing at the time. Hearing Oxley performing live was for me always an extraordinary experience, regardless of the circumstances. Even within a most "straightforward" mainstream environment, his drumming was always on a different conceptual plane, although he managed to "keep time" perfectly and without a hitch.
Since the late 1960s Oxley started to be featured on a long series of revolutionary British Jazz albums recorded at the time, many of which remain as absolutely essential examples of modern British Jazz and serve as unsurpassed achievements of that boisterous creative period, like those recorded with Gordon BeckFind albums by this artist, Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist and others.
His recording career as a leader started in 1969 with the release of two albums for CBSFind albums on this label: "The Baptised TravellerFind albums with this title" (1969) and "4 Compositions For SextetFind albums with this title" (1970), which in retrospect are considered as absolute gems of British Jazz discography. Those were followed by the album "IchnosFind albums with this title" (1971) released on RCAFind albums on this label. Following the disappointment with the major labels, which showed no interest in promoting these albums, Oxley joined guitarist Derek BaileyFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Evan ParkerFind albums by this artist as co-founder of the IncusFind albums on this label label, which was one of the first independent artist owned labels in Britain. He recorded two albums for the label: the eponymous "Tony OxleyFind albums with this title" (1975) and finally this, his fifth album as a leader "February PapersFind albums with this title" (1977).
The music on this album has nothing to do with Jazz in the conventional meaning of the idiom, but it is a perfectly logical continuation of the musical development that is documented on the four a.m. albums. Oxley breaks the conventional barriers and pushes the envelope towards Avant-Garde, which calls for new forms of expression not related to melody, harmony or even the usual sound expected from the instruments. Such extensive use of electronics was almost completely unheard of at the time of course and although early Improvised Music was already present on the scene, it was rarely as uncompromising and far-fetched as what Oxley decided to capture herein. Although bold spirited, the music offers a delicate, almost intimate sound and allows the listener to absorb every nuance of these performances.
The solo percussion / electronics pieces are of course the most surprising ones here. Improvised music is usually about group improvisation, but Oxley is one of the first improvisers to undertake the daring effort to freely improvise on his own, proving that such form of expression is both possible and valid.
Listening to this album today, with over four decades of perspective, enables me to extend my appreciation of this momentous historic effort from a new angle. Improvised Music is of course alive and kicking today and I am constantly exposed to a huge number of such recordings. I have to say that most of those contemporary efforts sound pretty pale in comparison to what Oxley managed to capture for posterity then. Despite the limited possibilities, surely compared to what is available today as far as electronic devices are concerned, his imagination and creativity remains unchallenged.
Kudos to Martin ArcherFind albums by this artist, the man behind DiscusFind albums on this label Records, for bringing this piece of musical history back to circulation – much appreciated! For Avant-Garde / Improvised Music enthusiasts, this is a Holy Grail!
| | Updated: 02/01/2021Posted: 03/10/2020 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY OXLEY ~ UNRELEASED 1974-2016
DISCUS 129 (Barcode: 5051078993126) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1974 - 2016 Released: 2022
This is an archival album compiling recordings by British Jazz drummer / violinist / composer / improviser / electronicist Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, recorded between 1974 and 2016 with some of the top British / European Avant-Garde musicians. The first three tracks from 1974 present a quintet with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Dave HoldsworthFind albums by this artist, pianist Howard RileyFind albums by this artist and trombonist Paul RutherfordFind albums by this artist. Although recorded in 1974, the music was much later into the form present on this album in later dates between 2005 and 2020. Next track from 1981 presents a quintet with guitarist Hugh MetcalfeFind albums by this artist, Riley, saxophonist Larry StabbinsFind albums by this artist and violinist / electronicist Philipp WachsmannFind albums by this artist and finally the last track presents a duo with German percussionist Stefan HoelkerFind albums by this artist. All the music was all composed by Oxley.
The album is a spectacular showcase of British / European Improvised Music at its best and has very limited to what most people consider as Jazz, sonically exploring interstellar space rather that our humble earthy neighborhood, but obviously preserving the improvising spirit and using sound as a metaphysical medium to express emotion and artistic expression.
The three early tracks form 1974 are perhaps the most remarkable, considering the date of recording, which proves that Oxley already at that time was light-years ahead of most the other musical explorers at the time. The absolute freedom from any references and restrictions characterizes these recordings as completely pioneering at the time, and honestly standing up to anything created in Improvised Music ever since.
Kudos to Oxley for releasing these recordings from his personal vaults and to Martin ArcherFind albums by this artist for releasing them faithfully on his DiscusFind albums on this label label, making them available to the world. You make us all spiritually richer being able to listen to this music.
Overall, this is a tremendously important historical material, which opens yet another window into the musical legacy of one of the most important British / European Improvising Music personas, which are both delightful and enlightening. An absolute must for Improvising Music followers!
| | Updated: 05/04/2022Posted: 05/04/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | TONY OXLEY / ALAN DAVIE ~ ELABORATION OF PARTICULARS
CONFRONT 20 ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1977 - 1978 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by the British duo comprising of drummer / electronic music composer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist and musician / painter Alan DavieFind albums by this artist, who plays piano, percussion and ring modulator on these studio recordings. The album presents eight tracks of freely improvised conversations between the two musicians.
Oxley and Davie met in the early 1970s and played together for the entire decade, and later on stayed friends until Davie’s death in 2014. The music was recorded over a period of two years. In the brief liner notes Oxley describes the experience of performing with Davie as “another thing entirely”, which listening to the music herein perfectly describes. He also states that his music “has evolved and developed enormously” since…
In retrospect the material sounds pretty evolved and developed already at that time, compared to what was happening in Jazz or Improvised Music, especially those involving electronics, at the time. Oxley and Davie were obviously pioneers of electro-acoustic Improvised Music, and the music they created together remains as fresh and innovative as it was at the time of the recording.
Listening to these recordings raises quite complex questions as to the nature of music and obviously requires a much broader definition of music beyond melody, harmony and rhythm, which this music obviously lacks according to the norms of the traditional approach. This music is not only freely improvised, but it also employs unconventional sounds, which cannot be defined or even annotated in the conventional notation systems.
And yet this music certainly boasts other aspects of music, like telepathic communication between the performers, high emotions and coherent aesthetics, creativity and inventiveness, all of which obviously cannot be written down on a piece of paper (or computer file).
Therefore, for music lovers able to appreciate music beyond the obvious, music that demands open-mindedness and open heart, music that challenges and inspires cerebral activity, this is something they would not want to miss.
Kudos to Mark WastellFind albums by this artist and his ConfrontFind albums on this label Recordings (confront indeed!) for swimming against the current and keeping life interesting, and Tony of course for opening the vaults - well done Gentlemen!
| | Updated: 23/07/2021Posted: 23/07/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | ENRICO RAVA ~ THE COMPLETE REMASTERED RECORDINGS ON BLACK SAINT & SOUL NOTE
CAM JAZZ 1002 (Barcode: 8024709111326) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1972 - 1994 Released: 2010
This superb Box Set collects all the albums recorded by the legendary Italian trumpeter / composer Enrico RavaFind albums by this artist on the twin Italian independent labels: Black SaintFind albums on this label and Soul NoteFind albums on this label. Rava needs no introduction to any serious Jazz connoisseur; suffice to say that from the early days of the European Jazz he was always there on the frontier lines, expanding the genre and breaking new ground tirelessly. Over the years he played with the greatest Jazz players from all over the world and served as a teacher to generations of young Italian and other European Jazz musicians. His virtuosic playing and excellent compositions are always a source of great musical joy. Rava is often compared to his Polish soul brother trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and their both share the incredible European sensitivity and sense of melody, which set them apart from their American counterparts. The musicians playing on these five albums include: saxophonist Pietro TonoloFind albums by this artist, pianist Franco D`AndreaFind albums by this artist, bassist Giovanni TommasoFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Gianluigi TroveriFind albums by this artist and many others. Remastered, mini-sleeved, and with a great bargain price – this Box Set an absolute must for any serious Jazz collector.
Side Note
The Italian independent record label Black SaintFind albums on this label was founded by the music critic / author / producer Giacomo PellicciottiFind albums by this artist in 1975. It was taken over by the producer Giovanni BonandriniFind albums by this artist in 1978 and a year later (1979) a sister label, called Soul NoteFind albums on this label, was established. The twin labels were run by Giovanni and later his son Flavio BonandriniFind albums by this artist, until they were sold in 2008 to the Italian KEPACH Music Group, which already owned the CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, and which also bought another Italian independent record label Dischi Della QuerciaFind albums on this label.
The mission of the Black Saint / Soul Note labels was to record and document the Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Garde scene, mostly from the US but also from Europe, which continued between mid 1970s and late 1990s and produced a staggering collection of almost 550 albums recorded by world's most important Jazz innovators active at the time, providing an opportunity to American (mostly Afro-American) musicians, who would have never managed to make these recordings at home, ridden by racism, alienation and closed-mindedness. Without these two labels most of this fantastic human creativity would have been never documented.
However, the Black Saint / Soul Note Box Sets produced under the CAM JazzFind albums on this label moniker are an archetypal example of how good intentions turn sour. Although these new editions often bring back to life some of the best music ever made on this planet, which in many cases has been lost in the tides of time and was unavailable on the market for ages, they suffer from an unforgivable disregard to the essence of cultural values and general sloppiness, contrary to human decency, which requires us to treat our cultural legacy with respect and loyalty.
These Box Sets have no booklet which presents researched historical background and exact discographical information of the albums included, and most importantly an overview of the music and its meaning and contribution to the Jazz Art form. Although the original LP sleeves are reproduced, the information is in most cases too small to be readable at all. In short the fact that these Box Sets are meant to be inexpensive, does not mean that they have to be cheap!
| | Updated: 03/07/2020Posted: | CD 5 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ ANGLE / THE DAY WILL COME
HUX 141 (Barcode: 682970001418) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2014
This is a reissue of the second and third albums by British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, both recorded in a trio format with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummer Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. Saxophonist / flautist Barbara ThompsonFind albums by this artist plays on one track of the debut album, which presents eight original compositions, all by Riley. The second album presents twelve original compositions, six each by Riley and Guy. These two albums were originally released in 1969 and 1970 respectively, by CBSFind albums on this label (the European branch of ColumbiaFind albums on this label). This reissue is in fact a reissue of the 1999 remastered editions of these two albums, which disappeared from the market immediately following their release.
Together with these two albums, CBS, initially under the Realm Jazz moniker and later just as CBS, released also several albums by other British Jazz musicians such as the first two albums by drummer / composer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, the first three albums by guitarist Ray RussellFind albums by this artist and debut albums by vibraphonist Frank RicottiFind albums by this artist and saxophonist Elton DeanFind albums by this artist, as well as albums by groups like Rock WorkshopFind albums by this artist, Soft MachineFind albums by this artist and others. All these are exceptional examples of completely non commercial / highly artistic music released by a Major record label, a phenomenon which reflected the spirit of that particular era and lasted for a very brief period of time, sadly never to be repeated again
By the time this music was recorded, i.e. by the late 1960s, British Jazz underwent a dramatic transformation, a quantum leap no less, from imitation to innovation. After copying the American Jazz tradition for decades, the post WWII generation rebelled and rapidly found its own methods of expression, embracing such diverse influences as contemporary European Classical music, World-Music and Rock and amalgamating them into a new identity, which would become first modern British Jazz and soon after copied all over Europe, including even the countries behind the Iron Curtain, modern European Jazz. In the aftermath of these remarkable events British Jazz scene was encompassing a diverse rage of stylistic alternatives, from Jazz-Rock and Jazz-World Fusions, via modern mainstream to a whole range of alternative / Avant-Garde experimentation including Free Jazz and Improvised Music.
It takes just a brief moment into the first album to realize that Riley belongs to the Avant-Garde oriented group of British musicians, who value freedom of expression and individuality more than convention and acceptance. Even on these two early albums he is already well advanced in his experimentation, keeping melody only as an entry point to his music, which is entirely based on the dialogue (or in this case trialogue) and collective improvisation, rather than on following the chord progressions of standards and keeping regular time signatures. Guy, who was just over twenty years old when this music was recorded, proves to be an ideal partner, a born adventurer and complete nonconformist. His bass playing on these two albums is an encyclopedic textbook of improvised music moves for fellow bassists, developed completely spontaneously and subconsciously. But it is Jackson, who is the biggest surprise on these albums, considering his almost entirely conventional background before these sessions as one of Britain´s most sought after modern mainstream drummers. His wonderful integration with Riley and Guy here is simply sensational and a superb proof of his open-mindedness and musicality.
In the years that followed these sessions Riley would record many more wonderful albums in many different settings, but these two albums would always symbolize his individuality and prophetic vision. The early signs of his exceptional abilities, which were about to push the boundaries of music and contribute to its development, influencing generations of players, are clearly evident herein, turning these albums into instant classics.
The most startling realization one is faced with, while listening to these two albums, is the fact that not only the music did not age or lost any of its relevance, but it still is right there on the forefront of the musical Art Form, exactly where it was almost fifty years ago. These iconic recordings have earned their position in the Pantheon of British Jazz right from the moment they were recorded, and their unavailability during most of the time that passed since was a crime against culture, somewhat repented by this current reissue.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 2 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ BBC SESSIONS 1968-1970
RHYTHM AND BLUES 100 (Barcode: 5060331753827) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1968 - 1970 Released: 2024
This is an archival album, which presents recordings by the brilliant British Jazz pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummers Jon HisemanFind albums by this artist or Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, five with the trio with Hiseman recorded in 1968 and eight with the trio with Jackson recorded between 1969 and 1970. Most of the material was composed by Riley or Guy, but there are also a couple of standards and one tune by Annette PeacockFind albums by this artist. The material originates from the first three albums by the trio: “DiscussionsFind albums with this title”, “AngleFind albums with this title” and “The Day Will ComeFind albums with this title”, all essential British Jazz recordings.
Riley is by far my favorite British Jazz Avant-Gardist, and his extensive recorded legacy is one of the pillars of the genre. He is mostly known for his work in the classic Jazz piano trio format, like the two trios preset here and the later trio with Guy and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. But he recorded in other ensembles with the crème de la crème of the British scene over the years and practically all his albums are instant classics. Sadly, my impression is that he never received the proper recognition as one of the Godfathers of the genre and many of his albums are almost completely unknown.
For me, Riley is one of the most remarkable Jazz Artists, blessed by a remarkable ability to think out of the box. Although that specific quality should be integral to all Free Jazz / Improvised Music / Avant-Gardists, in fact is rather a rare quality, and many musicians belonging to these genres repeat patterns rather than inventing them. From the very early days of his career, like on these sessions, Riley’s approach to improvising was completely innovative and unlike anything / anybody else. His playing, completely Free on one hand, is also superbly melodic, on the other, despite how far he moves away from the source / original melody. This is particularly easy to spot in his interpretations of standards, but even more fascination while playing his original compositions.
This album is a wonderful document, especially in view of the fact that this music is previously unreleased and offers a superb addition / extension to the three a.m. studio albums by Riley, which are of course also timeless gems. Although reissued, they are not easy to find, and absolutely worth the effort.
Overall, this is an absolute must for every British Jazz lover and Avant-Garde Jazz enthusiast, anywhere on this planet. It offers some of the cleverest, most sophisticated and aesthetically satisfying music, which lost nothing of its power and zetz over time, and is still a stunning listening experience!
| | Updated: 25/09/2024Posted: 25/09/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ FLIGHT
FMR 026 (Barcode: 786497181124) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 1995
British pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist has been a pivotal figure of the modern British Jazz and later Improvised Music since the late 1960s. Completely unorthodox and original, his approach to music making is a complete innovative universe, in which he and some of his close collaborators created the next plane in the history of Jazz in particular and music in general. Although the European Avant-Garde exploded a few years later then the first wave of US Free Jazz pioneers like Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist, Albert AylerFind albums by this artist, Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, it developed in a new direction rather than copying or following the path initiated by the US giants. As radical as the US Free Jazz might have appeared at the time, it was after all deeply rooted in the Jazz tradition and in many respects developed as an extension of Bebop.
The Europeans, most of them in their twenties when they initiated the European Free Improvisation school, had little, if any, experience playing Bebop and the new direction was developed spontaneously rather than consciously (or sub consciously). The social upheaval and general anti-establishment wave that swept Europe in the late 1960s might have served as a psychological background for these musical developments, as the quest for freedom of expression and rebellion against established musical forms was the central motif of the European Free Improvisation movement. Young European musicians in Britain, Germany, France, Netherlands and even behind the Iron Curtain (Poland, East Germany) decided to take a bold step towards exploration of a new musical universe, unbound by any preconceptions and limitations - harmonic, rhythmic or otherwise.
The movement started in the late 1960s but only truly crystallized by the early 1970s, and this album is certainly one of the first focal point of European Free Improvisation. It was Riley’s fourth solo album following his daring debut DiscussionsFind albums with this title from 1967 and two trio albums recorded for CBSFind albums on this label (AngleFind albums with this title & The Day Will ComeFind albums with this title). Exceptionally gifted bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist, who was a member of Riley’s trio from the very beginning, took part in all the recordings, and would be his partner for many years to come. However, the decisive factor and the catalyst, which turned this recording into a momentous leap forward was the participation of one of Europe’s most inventive and original drummers – Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The resulting trio – Riley / Guy / Oxley – turned out to be an unstoppable musical hurricane of exploration and spontaneous invention beyond anything previously encountered.
The album starts with a furious barrage of a 20 minutes long collective improvisation, which moves between trio, duo and solo performances of immense intensity and complexity. Some incredible sounds are extracted from the respective instruments, creating an incredible collage of sonic expressions. In complete contrast, the second part of the album is a complete anti-climax, with the trio performing some contemplative music, quiet and delicate and at times almost lyrical, as on the two ballads. Make no mistakes here – this is not a return to mainstream Jazz. These quiet pieces are as free and improvised as they come, but the fury of expression is subdued here and replaced by the balance between sound and silence, interplay and caressing the instruments. Overall this is a monster album, revolutionary, innovative and groundbreaking.
Released originally on the legendary TurtleFind albums on this label label, this reissue finally brings this musical treasure back to life, for all the people who never had the opportunity to hear it at the time. Although Riley would prove to be very prolific and record many exceptional albums in the future, this one is especially dear to my heart, as it opened windows nobody previously knew existed. A musical Magnum Opus, beyond essential!
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOWARD RILEY ~ SYNOPSIS
EMANEM 4044 (Barcode: 5030243404421) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2000
This is a reissue of the 5th album by British pianist / composer Howard RileyFind albums by this artist, recorded in a trio format with bassist Barry GuyFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. The album was originally released on the IncusFind albums on this label label, and this reissue presents the entire session with five tracks, as opposed to the original four tracks album. All the music was composed by Riley.
By the time this album was recorded, Riley was already recognized as one of the core members of the young British Avant-Garde, which took the scene by a storm, often vehemently opposed by the British Jazz “establishment”, which included traditional / mainstream musicians and most of the Jazz press. But of course the new music was hardly bothered by anybody’s opinion and exploded rapidly, defining a new Jazz aesthetic, inspired, but completely independent from the American Free Jazz scene, and effectively much closer conceptually to what was happening in Europe at the time on both sides of the Iron Curtain.
Spearheaded both by musicians and activist (i.e. club owners, small independent record labels and “radical” journalist), the British Jazz Avant-Garde in the 1970s wrote one of the most glorious chapters in the history of British Jazz, and this album is one of numerous examples of what was happening then, and the three musicians taking part in this recording are key figures of that movement; Riley with his trios, Guy with his London Jazz Composers OrchestraFind albums by this artist and Oxley with his quintets an sextets. The collection of the albums recorded by these musicians alone, recorded between late 1960s and mid-1970s is an overwhelming body of exceptional, revolutionary and often prophetic music.
Overall, this is a brilliant example of the British Free Jazz / Improvised Music classic period, which lost nothing of its power and striking, innovative out-of-the-box thinking, which became in time an archetypal specimen of the genre. For British Jazz lovers, who include the Avant-Garde milieu in their favorite pleasures, this is an absolute must of course.
| | Updated: 17/12/2024Posted: 17/12/2024 | CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | RONNIE SCOTT QUARTET ~ BBC JAZZ CLUB 1964-1966
RHYTHM AND BLUES 063 (Barcode: 5060331752219) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1964 - 1966 Released: 2020
This is an archival album by the British Jazz quartet led by legendary saxophonist Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist, known worldwide as the co-owner / co-founder (with Pete KingFind albums by this artist) of London’s most iconic Jazz Club, established in 1959 and located first at 39 Gerrard Street and in 1965 moved to the nearby current location (yes the club is still functional today) at 47 Frith Street. In all those years the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club became the de facto European Mecca not only for British Jazz, but for top Jazz Artists from all over the world.
The album presents three sessions featuring the quartet: three tracks from 1964 (with an announcement by Scott) with pianist Stan TraceyFind albums by this artist, bassist Malcolm CecilFind albums by this artist and drummer Jackie DouganFind albums by this artist; three tracks from 1965 with Tracey, bassist Rick LairdFind albums by this artist and drummer Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist; and finally five tracks from 1966 (with announcements by Humphrey LittletonFind albums by this artist) with Tracey, bassist Freddy LoganFind albums by this artist and drummer Bill EydenFind albums by this artist with great American vocalist Mark MurphyFind albums by this artist (resident at that time in UK) on two tracks, accompanied only by the piano trio.
The music is all mainstream Jazz and all the tracks are standards, but it shows Scott as an excellent player with a personal delivery and a keen eye (well ear) for the musicians he selected for the quartet, which were definitely some of the finest players around at the time. Tracey of course was also a full-fledged composer and leader of his own, and was the house pianist at Ronnie’s Jazz Club for over seven years (1960-1967), definitely not by chance.
Although Scott himself was not swept by the charms of the British Jazz revolution, which created a new sound and approach to the music, and remained faithful to the American (mostly Bebop) tradition, he was very open-minded as a person and respected the young and experimenting generation. He offered the club at the old location for as long as the lease lasted, which was named the “Old Place”, to be used by young musicians to rehearse and perform and the “house musician” position was offered to such distinguished modernist as Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist.
Overall this album is a nice reminder of Scott – the saxophonist and is a valuable addition to his recorded legacy, especially since this material is available here for the first time and offers quite reasonable sound quality.
| | Updated: 10/07/2021Posted: 10/07/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SKIDMORE / OXLEY / HAURAND ~ S.O.H. LIVE IN LONDON
JAZZWERKSATT 016 (Barcode: 4250079757824) ~ UK ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2007
This is an archival live recording by the wonderful trio consisting of British Jazz saxophonist Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist and German bassist Ali HaurandFind albums by this artist, known collectively as S.O.H.Find albums by this artist The trio performs four extended pieces, all being original compositions by the trio members with one tune co-composed by the Dutch pianist Jan HuydtsFind albums by this artist.
The trio, which was active between 1978 and 1984, recorded just a couple of obscure albums released on small independent European labels and this live recoding, which saw the light of day only more than twenty years after it was recorded, is a substantial addition to its discography. Both Skidmore and Oxley are among my favorite British Jazz musicians and both made tremendous contributions to the development of British and than European Jazz, as did Haurand, not only as a musician but also as organizer and bandleader of such formidable international groups like the European Jazz QuintetFind albums by this artist which than developed into the European Jazz EnsembleFind albums by this artist, which exists to this very day.
The music is a classic example of European post-Coltrane Free Jazz, based on intensive and highly emotional performances by the trio members. Skidmore is a brilliant improviser and his lengthy solos are unstoppable, to the delight of all Free Jazz enthusiasts. Oxley, who is without a doubt the most original Jazz drummer ever, is a monster and his solo work on this album is some of the finest recorded evidence of his genius. Haurand fills in very well and supports his cohorts with his energetic pulsations. The overall sound of the trio is a modern version of the "wall of sound" effect, initiated by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist two decades earlier, but with more emphasis on sophistication rather than on raw power.
Overall this is a tremendous piece of highly charged music, which captures one of the most interesting European Jazz ensembles active in the late 1970s / early 1980s at its peak form and portrays the British / European Jazz scene at the time. An absolute must for British Jazz enthusiasts / collectors!
| | Updated: 11/01/2017Posted: 11/01/2017 | CD 1 Slipcase Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALAN SKIDMORE ~ A SUPREME LOVE
CONFRONT 33 (Barcode: 5060446128084) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 - 2019 Released: 2023
This is a colossal career-spanning archival 6CD Box Set by British Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, which presents recordings between 1961 and 2019, documenting almost six decades of music making by one of British Jazz most prominent figures. Although most of the music was played by ensembles led by Skidmore, it also includes his work with Alexis KornerFind albums by this artist´s Blues IncorporatedFind albums by this artist, S.O.S.Find albums by this artist and S.O.H.Find albums by this artist trios, UbizoFind albums by this artist, Mask OrchestraFind albums by this artist and even Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. Most of the music was composed by Skidmore, but, as the title suggests, a significant portion of it was composed by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, with Skidmore admitting to being his devoted disciple. A vast majority of the 46 tracks included in this Box Set are previously unissued.
Over the years Skidmore played with the absolute crème de la crème of the modern British Jazz musicians, including John SurmanFind albums by this artist, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Ron MathewsonFind albums by this artist, John TaylorFind albums by this artist, Dave HollandFind albums by this artist, Chris LaurenceFind albums by this artist and many others, as well as many pioneering European and American Jazz musicians.
The music is presented chronologically and beautifully illustrates the gradual metamorphosis of Skidmore from Blues and mainstream Jazz player towards more adventurous areas towards the exploration of Free and Avant-Garde Jazz, which occurred by the end of the 1960s. The last two CDs are dedicated to the exploration of the music of John Coltrane, including a live performance at the legendary Café OTO from 2019 on CD6.
The music is of course brilliant from start to finish, and the release of this Box Set is a truly festive occasion to hear so much music previously hidden from the public ear, all of which is essential to every true British Jazz fan around the globe. The level of the performances is stellar of course, with Skidmore displaying his amazing technique and passion, which obviously are old news for any British Jazz follower, but appear herein in their full might and splendor. Thank God for the depth of Skidmore’s private archives, which made this Box Set possible, and perhaps those might be reexamined in order to find more of such treasures? Of course thanks to Mark WastellFind albums by this artist, the owner of ConfrontFind albums on this label Recordings, for making this dream come true.
Overall, this is an absolutely essential piece of British Jazz history, with hours upon hours of brilliant music, which sees the light of day for the first time. It presents the development of the British / European Jazz scene from the perspective of just one of its many heroes, but considering the incredible gathering of musicians who play on these tracks, it becomes way more than just a story of one man, as important as he might be thanks to his own achievements, constituting in fact a reflection of an Era.
| | Updated: 01/10/2024Posted: 21/06/2023 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALAN SKIDMORE ~ ONCE UPON A TIME…
VOCALION 8406 (Barcode: 765387840624) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
The title of the debut album by saxophonist / composer Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist is indeed appropriate for the occasion, as this is a recording of such beauty and excellence, that is happens extremely rarely. Alan, son of veteran British Jazz figure Jimmy SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, earned his own reputation by storming the modern British Jazz in the late 1960s. He participated in numerous pivotal recordings as sideman, and his debut turned out to be just it – the absolutely perfect example of what was happening at the time. If I had to select just one album, which represents the British scene at that time, this would be it. Skidmore on tenor sax leads a perfect quintet with Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist on trumpet, John TaylorFind albums by this artist on piano, Harry MillerFind albums by this artist on bass and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist on drums (yes they were John SurmanFind albums by this artist’s rhythm section as well). Of the six exquisite compositions present, two are by John Surman, and the rest by Tony Oxley, John WarrenFind albums by this artist, John Taylor and Alan Skidmore, each contributing one composition. Whatever I’ll say here does not come even close to listening to this music, so do yourself a favor and grab a copy – this is something I’ve been listening to for almost 40 years and it still grabs me each and every time, so it must be really special. Essential stuff!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ LEOSIA
ECM 1603 (Barcode: 731453169326) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1997
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, dedicated to his late Mother, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. Stanko´s compositions on this album are more melodic and lyrical than usual, perhaps in view of the fact that he intentionally wished to concentrate on melody here. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both extremely melodic players themselves. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
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  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MATKA JOANNA
ECM 1544 (Barcode: 731452398628) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1995
Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, one of the great Lions of European Jazz, now in his fifth decade of the tireless journey dedicated to discovering uncharted territory. Despite his advanced age, his powers as a player and composer seem to be ever growing and in contrast to Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, with whom he is often compared (a comparison, which in most cases makes no sense whatsoever) he still retains the position of the main soloist on his albums and his compositions are more detailed intricate than ever and as much melodically and harmonically advanced as always. This incredible album, finds Stanko again in the company of Swedish musicians: pianist Bobo StensonFind albums by this artist and bassist Anders JorminFind albums by this artist and surprisingly in first-time cooperation with British drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist – probably the greatest living drummer on this planet, who unfortunately records ever so rarely. This is the first of the two albums Stanko recorded with this quartet. The album is dedicated to the Polish film director Jerzy KawalerowiczFind albums by this artist, whose film "Matka Joanna Od Aniolow" (1961) was a groundbreaking masterpiece of the Polish post-WWII cinema. The music was composed mostly by Stanko, but also co-composed by the quartet members and includes one composition by Oxley. This is one of the last albums, on which Stanko´s compositions are very sparse and the music is mostly freely improvised. The quartet is perfect together, with Stenson and Jormin fitting the bill perfectly, being both greatly gifted players. Oxley, as usual, is simply outstanding, ornamenting the music with his idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and the role of percussion in Jazz, but keeps his outbursts well in the overall framework of the music. This is phenomenal music, some of the best ever made on this planet, and if anyone tells you differently, he´s simply deeply confused. An absolute must!
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  | JOHN SURMAN ~ ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
ECM 1463 (Barcode: 731451198120) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992
This is a masterful quartet recording by British saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist, accompanied by two American masters: pianist Paul BleyFind albums by this artist and bassist Gary PeacockFind albums by this artist and British drummer extraordinaire Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist. Surman gives a lot of credit to his partners on this album as compositions by all three of them are included herein with one composition coming from outside of the quartet, which is by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist. Surman contributes four of his original composition here. This is one of the most Jazz oriented and certainly Free Jazz oriented albums Surman recorded in the later part of his illustrious career and one of my personal all time favorites. Somehow the best of all the participants is encapsulated on this album; the virtuosity, the imagination, the interplay and the telepathic conversations are overwhelming. Oxley´s rare appearance is especially important and his completely unique approach to rhythm and percussive sounds is brilliantly documented here, particularly in view of the incredible sound quality of this recording, as usual with the ECMFind albums on this label catalogue. This is a masterpiece in every respect, and although most things done by Surman are quite outstanding, this one is particularly brilliant. Anybody with a pair of ears, which have been fairly recently cleaned, should find this irresistible. See also the "In The Evenings Out ThereFind albums with this title" album recorded by the same quartet!
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  | JOHN SURMAN ~ HOW MANY CLOUDS CAN YOU SEE?
VOCALION 8428 (Barcode: 765387842826) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 - 1970 Released: 2006
2nd solo release by saxophonist / composer John SurmanFind albums by this artist and one of the most pivotal recordings of the era, which defines modern British Jazz. If Surman was still searching for a clear direction on his debut album, recorded just a year earlier, he surely found it here. This is phenomenal music, from start to finish. The basis of the group that recorded this album is Surman’s quartet with Surman on baritone and soprano sax and bass clarinet, John TaylorFind albums by this artist on piano, Barre PhillipsFind albums by this artist on bass and Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist on drums. On two tracks the lineup is expanded with the addition of other great players like Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist on trumpet, Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist, John WarrenFind albums by this artist and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist on saxophones and Chris PyneFind albums by this artist and Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist on trombone and a few others. Surman’s previous rhythm section with Harry MillerFind albums by this artist on bass and Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist on drums is present on one track. The music was all composed by Surman except one track, which was composed by his collaborator, also baritone saxophonist John Warren (see their album together Tales Of The AlgonquinFind albums with this title). In short, this is one of the greatest recordings of the modern British Jazz formative years and a must in any serious record collection.
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  | JOHN SURMAN / ALAN SKIDMORE / TONY OXLEY ~ JAZZ IN BRITAIN `68-`69
VOCALION 8418 (Barcode: 765387841829) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 - 1969 Released: 2006
Saxophonists John SurmanFind albums by this artist and Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist are three of the most distinguished representatives of the burgeoning British Jazz scene in the late 1960s and 1970s. Each of them has a most impressive recorded legacy from that period and of course in the years to follow. This album, initially released in 1972, collects five stunning and previously unreleased outtakes, recorded at several sessions involving these three musicians, most of which originate from the sessions for Skidmore’s debut album. Each and every one of these tracks is absolutely superb, and considering the fact these are outtakes, this is ample evidence of the unbelievably high standard of the music at the time. The first track presents the unaccompanied saxophone trio comprising of Alan Skidmore (tenor), Mike OsborneFind albums by this artist (alto) and John Surman (baritone), which would later become known as S.O.S.Find albums by this artist and record albums under that name. On the next track the lineup is expanded to an octet with the addition of Harry BeckettFind albums by this artist (flugelhorn), Malcolm GriffithFind albums by this artist (trombone), John TaylorFind albums by this artist (piano), Harry MillerFind albums by this artist (bass) and Alan JacksonFind albums by this artist (drums). The third track is actually recorded in two parts, with a personnel change between the two parts: part one is a quartet (Surman, Taylor, Miller & Jackson), that features a rare appearance of Surman on piano, and part two a quintet (Skidmore, Wheeler, Taylor, Miller & Oxley) introducing Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist (trumpet) and Tony Oxley (drums). The remaining two tracks are recorded by the same quintet. Surman composed three of the pieces and his fellow saxophonist John WarrenFind albums by this artist composed another one. The music is absolutely divine from start to finish in every respect – the compositions, the solos and the interplay are all breathtaking. My personal favorite is the incredible work by Oxley, by far one of the most innovative and inventive drummers in Jazz. Oxley’s approach at the time is somewhat similar to the incredible work done by the young Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist, when he joined the Miles DavisFind albums by this artist quintet. Overall this is one the finest examples of British Jazz ever recorded and an absolutely essential document of the era.
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  | CECIL TAYLOR / TONY OXLEY ~ …BEING ASTRAL AND ALL REGISTERS – THE POWER OF TWO…
DISCUS 106 (Barcode: 5051078984629) ~ USA ~ Avant-Garde Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2020
With the turn of the Millennium American pianist Cecil TaylorFind albums by this artist halted his recording activity almost entirely, but continued to play concerts for another decade or so, many of which were recorded. That last decade of his musical activity is almost completely defined by the performances in a duo setting with the British percussionist Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist, with whom Taylor had a long-standing collaboration since the 1980s when his activities moved to Europe, some of which were released in the years that followed.
The musical synergy between Taylor and Oxley is one of the most natural and artistically fulfilling manifestations of the "Art of the Duo" idiom. After all these two musicians share many common qualities: they are revolutionaries, pioneers, visionaries and free spirits, who expanded the realms of music perhaps more significantly than is commonly acknowledged. It is not only what they managed to create over the years but also how they did it: boldly, uncompromisingly, and above all consistently.
There are many reasons why Taylor and Oxley fit together so well, speak the same musical language and communicate telepathically. Taylor´s playing was always associated with the characteristic percussive polyrhythmic attack on the piano, which is well complemented by the multitude of drumming paraphernalia used by Oxley during his recordings / performances in order to create a kaleidoscope of not only rhythms but notes as well. This "exchange" of roles, i.e. drumming on the piano and playing on the drums is what bonds them so well together.
This album is a perfect continuation to the reissue of the "February PapersFind albums with this title" album by Tony Oxley, released earlier this year on Discus Records, bringing some of the most ambitious and significant music on this planet to the connoisseurs, always ready to enjoy it to the last drop.
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 02/01/2021Posted: 02/01/2021 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WINSTONE / WHEELER / FRESU / TAYLOR / DAMIANI / OXLEY ~ LIVE AT ROCCELLA JONICA
SPLASC(H) 508 (Barcode: 716642050821) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2003
This is a reissue of a rather obscure live recording by a dreamy Anglo-Italian sextet comprising of British vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and drummer Tony OxleyFind albums by this artist and Italian trumpeter Paolo FresuFind albums by this artist and bassist Paolo DamianiFind albums by this artist. Together they perform five original compositions, three by Wheeler (two of which are joined into a medley) and two by Damiani, one of which lasts for over twenty three minutes.
The music is typical modern European Jazz, based on solid melodic themes but open to individual interpretations, which are expressed here by the solos performed by all the participants. The melodies are first presented by Winstone using her amazing vocalese statements and then are picked up by the rest of the sextet and subjected to open improvisation.
The album is full of wonderful soloing and the double trumpet lineup is especially attractive with Wheeler and Fresu playing in tandem or jointly, creating some truly amazing statements. Taylor as always lays the harmonic background for the music and adds fiery solos on the way and the rhythm section keeps things moving ahead. Oxley´s drumming is definitely one of the most "straightforward" performances of his ever captured on record.
Winstone´s neck breaking solos are the absolute highlight of this album and her full power of improvisation and amazing virtuosity are beautifully captured here. The informality of a concert setting and the extraordinary drumming by Oxley, which accompanies her vocal solos come together perfectly.
Although the sound quality of the recording, even in this remastered version, is far from perfect, the music is so powerful and unique that the sound imperfections can be easily ignored. Since the sextet came together only once for this specific appearance, the album is a time capsule and a perfect historical document of European Jazz at its best in the mid-1980s. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 13/07/2018Posted: 13/07/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
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