Record Reviews

JACK BRUCE ~ MONKJACK CMP 1010 (Barcode: 044351101023) ~ UK ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1995 Released: 1995 This is a wonderful and very personal album by the great Jack BruceFind albums by this artist, who abandons his bass playing and sticks only with piano and vocals on this one. Accompanied by Bernie Worrell on the legendary Hammond B3 organ, Bruce delivers a series of his composition (except for one Blues standard) to words by his life-long poet / companion Pete BrownFind albums by this artist as well as a couple of other lyricist. There is a wonderful intimacy here a superb recording quality (thanks to CMPFind albums on this label Records sound engineer / owner Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist), which makes this album a truly special affair. I can´t imagine any Bruce fan missing this one in their collection.

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MARCIO DOCTOR ~ RESTLESS WORLD PROVOCATEUR 1024 (Barcode: 5038491102427) ~ ARGENTINA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001 Argentinean percussionist / composer Marcio DoctorFind albums by this artist earned a lot of respect as the resident percussionist with one of worlds most renowned Jazz orchestras – the NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist. His desire to learn and expand his musical horizons brought him from his country of birth to Europe, where he eventually settled in Germany. His ambition to study with one of the world’s greatest percussionists Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist (also resident in Germany) was eventually fulfilled. This album, his debut as leader and composer, presents an ambitious and complex musical suite, which is subtitled: “Music for Woodwind Instruments and Percussion”. The album was recorded by an ensemble comprising of several other NDR Big Band members, including the phenomenal saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Ingolf BurkhardtFind albums by this artist. Famous German musician / composer / producer and sound engineer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist guests on electronics, adding some of his magic to the already widely unusual sound of the album, which he also engineered. The music is a dense, complex and strangely beautiful piece of contemporary Jazz, which could easily be also considered as contemporary Classical Music. The suite’s five movements are composed, but leave plenty of space for extended individual as well as collective improvisations. The virtuosity of the musicians is obvious every step of the way and their rapport phenomenal. This is one of those albums, which might sound intimidating at first, but grow on you with repeated listening. By no means an easy journey, but one full of intellectual rewards. Warmly recommended!

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JOACHIM KUHN ~ I`M NOT DREAMING / DYNAMICS ART OF GROOVE 80232 (Barcode: 885513802323) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1983 - 1990 Released: 2014 This is a reissue of two albums by German pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist, which were originally released on the German CMPFind albums on this label label, owned and operated by recording legend / producer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist. After a spell of activity in the Jazz-Rock Fusion idiom in the 1970s, Kuhn returned to experimentation in the Avant-Garde Jazz and contemporary Classical music in the 1980s, and these two albums reflect his work in that decade. "I`m Not DreamingFind albums with this title", recorded in 1983, marks the beginning of the association between Kuhn and Quintus and his CMP label. It was recorded by a quintet, which features two Germans: cellist Ottomar BorwitzkyFind albums by this artist (a Classical musician) and multi-instrumentalist Herbert ForschFind albums by this artist, and two Americans: the legendary trombonist George LewisFind albums by this artist and percussionist Mark NauseefFind albums by this artist (resident in Germany). Together they form a formidable ensemble, which performs seven original compositions by Kuhn. The music is floating somewhere between Free Jazz and contemporary Chamber Classical music, which is based on composed themes but is then expanded by extensive improvised passages. Over thirty years later this music is still as challenging and fresh as it was at the time of the recording, and remains a significant piece of the modern European Jazz history. "DynamicsFind albums with this title", recorded in 1990, is a solo piano album, which presents seven pieces, five of which were composed by Kuhn and two are interpretations of music composed by Eric DolphyFind albums by this artist and Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist. Again, rather than playing completely improvised music, Kuhn prefers to have a compositional framework to guide him, as he creates his improvisations. Kuhn is of course one of the most important European Jazz pianist and his solo piano albums are always examples of sublime musicality, impeccable aesthetics and of course brilliant technique. This is demanding, serious music, which demands concentration and dedication in order to be fully appreciated and understood, but eventually it is as much rewarding. This reissue brings back to life some of the great European Jazz, that sank into the background in time, but which certainly deserves to be cherished and remembered. Therefore the Art Of GrooveFind albums on this label label deserves to be shown gratitude for their work in this area.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 02/05/2016

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JOACHIM KUHN / ROLF KUHN ~ LOVE STORIES IN+OUT 77061 (Barcode: 798747706124) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003 This is a spectacular duo album by the Kuhn Brothers: pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist and clarinetist Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist. As the title suggests they perform ten love songs, nine of which are standards every Jazz fan knows well and one is an original piece co-composed by the brothers. The presence of the Kuhn Brothers also promises freedom and the music delivers plenty of it of course. Although separated by fifteen years of age and in many respects by musical background, the brothers always managed to find what unites them rather than what separates them, of which this album is a beautiful living proof. Therefore the music herein presents the melodic themes of each of the songs but also ventures into pretty advanced free improvised sections, although never losing the focus for a single second. The life´s story of the Kuhn Brothers is in many respects the story of modern European Jazz from its early days in the mid 1960s. Rolf, who encountered Jazz in the height of the Swing era, turned out to be a virtuoso player performing with American Jazz stars and yet returned to Europe to continue his career. Joachim started at a very early age experimenting with Free Form and Avant-Garde, swiftly becoming one of the leaders of the new European Jazz, which has broken free of the chains imposed by the rigid American tradition and stayed always at the vanguard of the genre. Nevertheless Joachim never underrated the Jazz tradition and if the opportunity called for it, he could play mainstream Jazz or Jazz-Rock Fusion better them most. The brothers kept close ties over the years and recorded numerous albums together, of which this is one of my all time favorites. There is a telepathic understanding and interplay between the brothers, which is hardly surprising considering their close ties. Rolf plays the "sane", melodic phrases most of the time, whereas Joachim is all over the place with his wild chord structures and arpeggios and the resulting music is simply stunning. Again the Art Of The Duo idiom proves that two great musicians can sound better than an entire symphonic orchestra Of course there are also the European Jazz characteristics that this music boasts continuously: elegance, sophistication, intelligence and depth. Although seemingly relaxed and modest at first, this music has so much substance and intensity, that even after numerous repetitive listening sessions it reveals new vistas each and every time. In addition this music was spectacularly recorded by the great Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, and the sound quality is simply divine. This is an absolute must to very European Jazz / Art Of The Duo connoisseur!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 14/08/2016

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ROLF KUHN ~ INSIDE OUT INTUITION 750447327627 (Barcode: 750447327627) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1999 Released: 1999 This is an exquisite album by German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, one of my all time favorite musicians, recorded in several different lineups and including American guest stars: saxophonists Michael BreckerFind albums by this artist and Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and also Rolf´s younger brother pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist. The rest of the musicians are members of the younger generation of the German Jazz scene. Together they perform nine tunes, four of which are originals by Rolf Kuhn, three are by Joachim Kuhn, one is by Konitz and the remaining one is a Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist standard. The album was recorded by the legendary sound engineer / producer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, owner of CMPFind albums on this label Records, and the sound quality is simply breathtaking. Kuhn´s clarinet sound, which has been his trademark for decades, is absolutely unique, combining the traditional Jazz approach originating in the early Jazz days and European modernism. Kuhn, who often joins forces with his pianist brother, produced a substantial and consistently excellent body of recorded work over time, which in retrospect is an integral part of the European Jazz and one of its finest facets. This album is full of beautiful melodies, mostly reflecting the European lyricism and melancholy, superbly executed by all the participants, with many splendid solos and outstanding ensemble playing. The younger musicians seem to have no problem whatsoever to stand shoulder to shoulder with the veterans. Considering the fact that Kuhn was seventy years old when this music was recorded, he manages miraculously to keep his head and soul eternally young! This album is a classic example of the elegance, sophistication, panache and stylish flair, which characterize European Jazz at its best, and which manage to present relatively mainstream Jazz in a fresh and challenging way. I can´t imagine any true Jazz fan not enjoying this fantastic music, and therefore recommend it wholeheartedly. For clarinet lovers this album is simply beyond essential!

Updated: 05/02/2016Posted: 05/02/2016

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ROLF KUHN TRIO ~ AS TIME GOES BY BLUE FLAME 40292 (Barcode: 4002587402921) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1989 Released: 1991 This is an album by legendary German Jazz clarinetist / composer / bandleader Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist, recorded in the intimate trio setting with his younger brother, pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist and bassist Detlev BeierFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, two of which are original compositions by Rolf Kuhn, another two by Joachim Kuhn, one is co-composed by them and two are standards. The album was brilliantly recorded by Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, at the legendary CMPFind albums on this label studio. The music is an ideal amalgam of composed and improvised music, based on composed themes and then expanded by lengthy improvisations by all three musicians. It offers a relatively rare opportunity to hear the clarinet in the modern / Free Jazz environment, as well as get exposed to the brilliant work by Beier, who is definitely one of the finest German bass virtuosos, which is plainly evident herein. All three musicians have plenty of opportunity to expose their masterly skills and the telepathic rapport between them is absolutely stunning. Rolf’s sweet tone and heart-melting melodicism are perfectly matched by his improvisational skills and the intrinsic freedom, which are unmatched. I feel lucky to have been able to experience so many hours of his brilliant performances in person over the years and listening to this album vividly brings back memories of his presence, which I often miss. Joachim is, of course, as brilliant as always and his arpeggios and uncontainable fluidity fill the space behind his brother’s melodic statements, while Beier supplies, mind you all by himself, all the rhythmic support needed and more. Overall, this is one of the most beloved albums by Ralf Kuhn in my collection (and I have all of them of course). Brilliantly melodic, and Free spirited at the same time, this is Jazz as its most naked, striking form, which is completely timeless and everlasting. Miss you, my Friend!

Updated: 02/08/2024Posted: 02/08/2024

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ROLF KUHN UNIT ~ STEREO MPS 4029759102908 (Barcode: 4029759102908) ~ GERMANY ~ Avant-Garde Jazz Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015 This is a sensational album by veteran German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist and his quartet, which also includes guitarist Ronny GraupeFind albums by this artist, bassist Johannes FinkFind albums by this artist and drummer Christian LillingerFind albums by this artist. Together they perform ten pieces, six of which were composed by Kuhn, two by Graupe, one by Fink and one by Gordon JenkinsFind albums by this artist. The album´s liner notes are completely uninformative about all the relevant details, like who plays what, who composed what and when the music was record, which is a gross negligence. At least it states that the album was engineered by the legendary Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, and it sounds accordingly amazing. Aged 85 at the time this music was recorded, Kuhn seems to be younger and more vigorous musically then all his contemporaries, and to be honest most other musicians way younger then him. This quartet incorporates two young Berlin based musicians, who are considered to be representatives of the "now" German Jazz scene, mostly playing extreme contemporary Avant-Garde (Graupe and Lillinger were members of Hyperactive KidFind albums by this artist now known as Gropper / Graupe / LillingerFind albums by this artist trio). Fink is a representative of the mid-generation and also mostly associated with Free Jazz. The sheer audacity to play along these musicians, many decades younger than him, and feel completely integrated with them makes Kuhn an absolute marvel. The music is completely up to date, amalgamating Free Jazz, some electronics, Avant-Garde and Jazz tradition. This is probably the most experimental album Kuhn ever recorded, even though he often flirted with Free Jazz during his extensive career. His presence influences Graupe and Lillinger to actually play melody and rhythm, which they almost never do in their organic environment. This means that although the music is very adventurous, it is completely coherent and accessible even to listeners who have little experience with music of this kind earlier on. More experienced listeners will discover a whole new universe of music herein, with layer upon layer of complexity and ingenuity. The individual statements and the interplay between the quartet members are among the most marvelous musical moments of contemporary European Jazz, which has no parallels. This music is beyond time and space and takes the listener on a voyage of endless possibilities. The life and work of Rolf Kuhn are a wonderful example of the limitless power of talent and mind over obstacles and limitations. His illustrious recorded legacy is an endless source of sublime musical pleasures and this album is simply the jewel in the crown, the cherry on top, the top of the heap… Thank you Rolf for so many years of musical joys; Hats off and may you live forever!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 23/09/2016

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GEBHARD ULLMANN / BASEMENT RESEARCH ~ HAT AND SHOES BETWEEN THE LINES 71238 (Barcode: 608917123821) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is an album by German saxophonist / bass clarinetist / composer Gebhard UllmannFind albums by this artist and his international Basement ResearchFind albums by this artist quintet, which also includes American trombonist Steve SwellFind albums by this artist, British saxophonist Julian ArguellesFind albums by this artist (playing baritone saxophone here), German / French bassist Pascal NiggenkemperFind albums by this artist and American drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions by the leader, recorded by the legendary sound engineer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist. The music is a classic European Free Jazz recording, based on composed themes but offering a lot of open space and freedom of individual improvisation, overall pretty well “organized” / “well behaved”, which manages to eschew total havoc and chaos. The quintet plays admirably well together, producing coherent statements and ever-changing fabric of difficult, but exciting music. Although two-thirds of the quintet are American musicians, this music is obviously way more European in nature and sound, perhaps somewhat more tamed than American Free Jazz, but definitely way more effective. All the members of the quintet are of course seasoned and well-known musicians within the Free Jazz scene, with impressive recorded legacy behind them. As a result, the individual statements included herein are all truly inspired. Personally I am most impressed by the ensemble sound, which sounds really impressive and brilliantly lucid, obviously emphasized by the splendid sound quality of the album. Overall, this is an excellent example of the European Free jazz, which offers exciting ensemble playing and virtuosic individual statements, which all come together in a precise, listenable way. This music obviously requires effort and open-mindedness to be enjoyed, but is definitely highly rewarding and as such recommended!

Updated: 16/04/2022Posted: 16/04/2022

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BENJAMIN WEIDEKAMP ~ SERIELL, NICHT SERIOS WHYPLAYJAZZ 011 (Barcode: 4050486096789) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014 This is the debut album by the German clarinetists / saxophonist / composer Benjamin WeidekampFind albums by this artist and his quartet, which also includes clarinetists / saxophonist Uli KempendorffFind albums by this artist, guitarist Ronny GraupeFind albums by this artist and drummer Christian MarienFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, all by Weidekamp and was recorded by the legendary Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist, with the sound quality of this recording being excellent, as expected. Active on the Berlin Jazz scene since the turn of the Millennium, Weidekamp was as the leader of several different ensembles (Odd ShotFind albums by this artist, Olaf TonFind albums by this artist, Stereo LisaFind albums by this artist) and participated in other Improvised Music ventures. He founded this quartet in 2010 but the debut recording followed only a few years later. The music presented on this album is very Avant-Garde, near the extreme edge of Improvised Music, which of course means that it is completely uncommunicative to the vast majority of the people, who listen to music, even the most open-minded among them. It is constructed of shredded melody pieces, often repeated continuously in a manner similar to minimalist / serial music, which seemingly have no beginning or end and stay on the same emotional level for extensive periods of time. Balinese and other Far East folkloristic motifs also come to mind as do many other Avant-Garde explorations, many of which were tried out already decades ago. As much as I support individuality and originality, this kind of extremism serves in my view only the musicians, who play this music, contributing very little to the actual aesthetics of music as such. Although some listeners might find this music interesting or even fascinating, it rests largely within the artistic self-indulgence zone. Of course it is also possible that I have no idea what I am talking about and this music simply is beyond my limited comprehension. Whichever way, I´ll probably not return to this album in the foreseeable future.

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

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