Record Reviews

VOLKER KRIEGEL ~ TWO CONCERTS MOOSICUS 1312 (Barcode: 885513131225) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1979 - 1990 Released: 2019 This is an archival album presenting live recordings by iconic German guitarist / composer / bandleader Volker KriegelFind albums by this artist and his bands. The first CD presents a concert recorded in Lagos, Nigeria in 1979 by the Mild Maniac OrchestraFind albums by this artist, which included keyboardist Thomas BettermannFind albums by this artist, bassist Hans Peter StroerFind albums by this artist, drummer Evert FratermanFind albums by this artist and percussionist Hans BehrendtFind albums by this artist, expanded with two brass players: saxophonist Wolfgang EngstfeldFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ulrich BeckerhoffFind albums by this artist. Several local musicians guest on two jam tracks. The band plays three original compositions by Kriegel, one by Stroer, one Brazilian tune and the a.m. two jams. The second CD presents a concert recorded in Bochum, Germany in 1990 by a quintet with Bettermann, saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist, bassist Michael SchurmannFind albums by this artist and drummer Thomas AlkierFind albums by this artist. They perform four original compositions, two each by Kriegel and Bettermann. Kriegel, who sadly departed way too prematurely in 2003, was one of the most original Jazz / Fusion guitarists on the world scale and one of the most important German Jazz musicians. His albums, most of which were released on the legendary MPSFind albums on this label label, are all absolute gems and reflect splendidly the development of the local scene. His ensembles always included top German musicians and his compositions were ideal vehicles for the musicians to play their hearts out. His completely unique guitar style remains as one of the unparalleled highlights of European Fusion. This album is one of four releases (so far) of material from Kriegel’s personal archives by the MoosicusFind albums on this label label, which are great historical documents and all offer wonderful musical experiences. Overall, this is a superb album, which offers some of the best European Fusion ever recorded and as such is a must in any serious Fusion collection. For guitar freaks this material is worth its weight in gold. Hopefully, it might bring some young music lovers to discover this true Master!

Updated: 08/04/2022Posted: 08/04/2022

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LA VOCE ~ MUSIC FOR VOICES, TRUMPET AND BASS JARO 4208 (Barcode: 4006180420825) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997 This is the only album by the ensemble La VoceFind albums by this artist, which consists of German trumpeter Ulrich BeckerhoffFind albums by this artist and bassist Hartmut KrachtFind albums by this artist and a vocal trio: British Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, Brazilian Rosani ReisFind albums by this artist and Italian Giacomo di BenedettoFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve pieces, mostly composed or co-composed by Beckerhoff with other ensemble members, with one traditional melody and two Brazilian standards. The music is an eclectic collection of Jazz-World Fusion pieces beautifully arranged for the ensemble, which balances between the vocal parts and trumpet solos, with the bass being the only rhythmic thread. The atmosphere is delicate and somewhat mysteriously lyrical, and although influenced by many World Music elements, is basically very European in its sophisticated ambience and openness. The vocalists perform an entire spectrum of vocal artistry, from superb vocal harmonies to individual vocalese outings and even a satirical version of Rap, and the album is a wonderful collection of vocal treasures, which connoisseurs of eclectic vocal Jazz performances should be delighted with. Beckerhoff´s trumpet playing is somewhat similar to Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist´s artistry and therefore the pieces that feature duets between him and Norma Winstone have a familiar resonance to them. Kracht does a truly remarkable job keeping the entire performance in check rhythmically and his round and fully-bodied bass pulsations are a true fundament upon which the music rests. Overall this is a beautiful, unique and sadly little know project, which still sounds fresh and meaningful over twenty years after it was recorded, and will surely withstand the tides of time successfully in the future. Wholeheartedly recommended and if you can get it, grab a copy!

Updated: 10/12/2018Posted: 10/12/2018

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend