Record Reviews

MARIUSZ SMOLINSKI ~ MYSLIWSKI NA GLOS NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz & Poetry Recorded: 2023 Released: 2024 This is the 2nd album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Mariusz SmolinskiFind albums by this artist, recorded again in a classic piano trio setting with bass guitarist Bartosz KuczFind albums by this artist and drummer Piotr BudniakFind albums by this artist. Cornet player Artur MajewskiFind albums by this artist guests on one track. Two speakers recite fragments from three novels written by Polish author Wieslaw MysliwskiFind albums by this artist at the start of each of the six tracks, which remain title-less, all composed by Smolinski and inspired by Mysliwski’s works. Although not strictly a “Jazz & Poetry” project, this album is close enough to belong to the category. In contrast to the debut album, this recording presents straightforward Jazz played on acoustic piano, and the only “link” to the Fusiony debut is the sound of the electric bass guitar. The compositions are also way more advanced and offer a beautiful melodic themes, full of typical Polish lyricism, excellently weaved and obviously inspired. The trio performances are also absolutely perfect and the presence of the electric bass guitar is refreshing and ornaments the music structurally and rhythmically, with obvious technique and feel. Smolinski plays with confidence, without any excessive soloing, which would have been out of place in this delicate lyrical environment. Budniak is also perfect for the job, precise, inventive and most importantly supportive. Overall, this is a wonderful piano trio album, which should keep Jazz lovers around the globe perfectly happy. This is pure Jazz, completely devoid of fleshy exhibitionism and pretenses. The Polish texts are kept to a minimum, and should not disturb listeners, who do not speak the language, and are a nice spicing for those who do. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 29/01/2025Posted: 29/01/2025

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