Record Reviews
22 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | BIG BAND KATOWICE ~ MUSIC FOR MY FRIENDS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.52)
MUZA 1052 (Barcode: 5907783420528) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2007
Katowice, the Capital of Upper Silesia - Poland´s industrial region, was very important to the development of the Polish Jazz scene due to the fact that the local Music Academy was the first and for many years the only higher educational facility teaching a Jazz programme which awarded a degree in Music. The highly dedicated faculty and stuff directed generation after generation of young Polish musicians towards a career in Jazz music and in time the majority of the local Jazz scene was indeed a collection of the Katowice Music Academy alumni, the names of which are simply too numerous to mention. This phenomenon emphasizes the crucial importance of music education and its contribution to Culture. This album presents a Jazz Big Band led by trumpeter / composer Zbigniew KalembaFind albums by this artist and comprising of the students of the Katowice Music Academy and guest soloists, some of which were ex-students, such as guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist, pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and many others. They perform eight compositions, five of which are originals and three standards, all beautifully arranged and passionately performed. The majority of the music has a distinct Jazz-Rock Fusion feel, which is not surprising as the genre ruled the local scene in the late 1970s. Since the Polish Jazz series includes only a handful of Big Band recordings, this is a most valuable addition to the overall presentation of the Polish Jazz scene. Warmly recommended!
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  | EXTRA BALL ~ AKUMULA-TORRES
POLJAZZ / ANEX 215 (Barcode: 5907513047445) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1983 Released: 2006
Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion band Extra BallFind albums by this artist was the best and most dominant ensemble on the local scene in the late 1970s. Founded by the best young Polish Jazz musicians at the time, members of the second generation of the country´s splendid tradition, they displayed an amazing level of individual talents both as players and composers. Led by guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, the initial incarnation of the band also included saxophonist Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. Although the band practically ceased to perform and record by the end of the 1970s, Smietana organized an ad-hoc lineup for the recording of this, the last album by the legendary band, recorded live at the Warsaw Aquarium Jazz club. The lineup includes trumpeter Adam KawonczykFind albums by this artist and bassist Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist from the last active incarnation of the band, with drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist and Cuban percussionist Jose TorresFind albums by this artist, who lives in Poland. Saxophonist Henry MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and conga player Adam KawonczykFind albums by this artist guest on the album. Stylistically this album marks a more percussive approach to music mixed with traditional Jazz elements, but is excellent in every sense, as everything the band recorded. An absolute must!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EXTRA BALL ~ AQUARIUM LIVE NO.3
POLJAZZ / ANEX 305 (Barcode: 5907513047605) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2009
Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion band Extra BallFind albums by this artist was the best and most dominant ensemble on the local scene in the late 1970s. Founded by the best young Polish Jazz musicians at the time, members of the second generation of the country´s splendid tradition, they displayed an amazing level of individual talents both as players and composers. Led by guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, the initial incarnation of the band also included saxophonist Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jan CichyFind albums by this artist and drummer Benedykt RadeckiFind albums by this artist. These live performances are the last recording by the original lineup, except for drummer Marek StachFind albums by this artist, who replaced Radecki. Recorded live at the Warsaw Aquarium Jazz club, this is an amazing performance with a band at their highest peak, but torn internally as to the musical direction, which led to their demise soon after, with Sendecki and Olejniczak forming Sun ShipFind albums by this artist. The inclusion of two Jazz standards clearly points out the tendency of some band members to return to the more traditional Jazz forms rather that continue the Fusion path. Smietana´s superb guitar licks will amaze every Fusion fan, who was never exposed to his performances and Sendecki´s keyboard wizardry is simply astounding. This is an excellent album, which all Fusion lovers on this planet should be proud to have in their collections. An absolute must!
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  | EXTRA BALL ~ BIRTHDAY (POLISH JAZZ VOL.48)
POLSKIE RADIO 0545 (Barcode: 5901448115453) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2005
Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion band Extra BallFind albums by this artist was the best and most dominant ensemble on the local scene in the late 1970s. Founded by the best young Polish Jazz musicians at the time, members of the second generation of the country´s splendid tradition, they displayed an amazing level of individual talents both as players and composers. Led by guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, the initial incarnation of the band also included saxophonist Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jan CichyFind albums by this artist and drummer Benedykt RadeckiFind albums by this artist. Smietana and Sendecki wrote the material for this, their debut album, which is truly outstanding in every sense. The melodies are complex and well developed, covering a wide range of cultural influences, both from the Jazz tradition and from other sources like folklore and European Classical music and Rock. The level of musicianship is amazingly high, definitely well beyond what one might expect from people in their twenties. Smietana´s superb guitar licks will amaze every Fusion fan, who was never exposed to his performances and Sendecki´s keyboard wizardry is simply astounding. This is an excellent album, which all Fusion lovers on this planet should be proud to have in their collections. An absolute must!
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  | MICHAEL GIBBS ~ NONSEQUENCE
PROVOCATEUR 1027 (Barcode: 5038491102724) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
British composer / arranger / bandleader Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist is one of the pillars of modern British Jazz. His outstanding 1970s recordings serve as musical milestones in the development of Jazz and Jazz-Rock Fusion composition and his bands of the period, which always included some of the best players on the scene, are remarkable achievements remembered and cherished to this very day. After the decline of the British Jazz scene Gibbs returned to the US, where he concentrated on teaching and composing works for many different media (TV, cinema, performances and concerts) in a variety of musical genres, including of course Jazz and contemporary Classical Music. Although many of his compositions were released as soundtrack albums, he recorded only three “real” / dedicated Jazz albums in the last 30 years. Therefore his new album on ProvocateurFind albums on this label Records is a major event and a delight for his many fans and admirers. The album presents an ambitious project involving a recording on two continents (Hamburg and New York) by two big ensembles (the NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist in Hamburg and a specially assembled band in NY), presenting music mostly written by Gibbs with just a few of his unique arrangements of compositions by other composers. The NY band includes some of the most illustrious names on the contemporary Jazz scene, like Lew SoloffFind albums by this artist and Randy BreckerFind albums by this artist (trumpet), Chris HunterFind albums by this artist and Alex FosterFind albums by this artist (saxophone), Hiram BullockFind albums by this artist (guitar) and Steve SwallowFind albums by this artist (bass) among others. The NDR Big Band includes many marvelous players, but most notably saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The music is everything one might expect from Gibbs – marvelously melodic, beautifully crafted, devilishly cleverly arranged and superbly executed by both ensembles. Gibbs skillfully gets the best out of the big band setting, using the incredible dynamics it allows for and interposing multi-layered harmonic and rhythmic structures against each other to achieve an incredibly dramatic effect. Several excellent solo parts ornament the album like cherries on a cake and the different moods and tempi never allow for even a brief dull moment. The music reflects perfectly the composer’s versatility and open-mindedness, which have always been his forte. This is one refreshing and delightful musical experience that I’d hate my friends to miss; so nothing else remains to be said other that recommending this album wholeheartedly. You won’t regret it!
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  | ALBERT MANGELSDORFF ~ MUSIC FOR JAZZ ORCHESTRA
SKIP 9039 (Barcode: 4037688903923) ~ GERMANY ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is an album by legendary German Jazz trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, recorded with the phenomenal NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist, which features some of the best German Jazz musicians, like trumpeter Ingolf BurkhardtFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and my Friend, Polish (resident in Germany) pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, five of which are the movements of suite, which gives the album its title, and the other two are additional pieces selected for this recording, all composed by Mangelsdorff. This album, recorded in 2002, was the last recording by Mangelsdorff, before he died in 2005.
The music is everything one might expect from Mangelsdorff and the NDR, superbly composed and executed, beautifully illustrating the European approach to Jazz Big Band, and featuring some outstanding soloing by Mangelsdorff and the NDR members. The music is complex and although based on coherent melodic themes, the arrangements call for extended multilayered interplays between the band sections, and the soloist improvise openly, often even Freely. This is about as sophisticated as Big Band Jazz gets and certainly quite different of the widespread perception of what a Jazz Big Band sound like.
Mangelsdorff’s role as one of the founding Fathers of the European Jazz is invaluable and his collected recorded legacy is a reflection of his Genius captured for posterity. He always was an “out of the box” thinker and I consider myself lucky to have met him and enjoyed his company and knowledge, which deeply influenced me over the years.
Overall, this is a brilliant and highly unique Jazz Big Band album, probably one of the best ever recorded in that format, featuring sensational performances by the band and the soloists, including Mangelsdorff, who was still at excellent form despite his age. For Jazz Big Band enthusiasts this is an absolutely essential recording, but all lovers of Mangelsdorff’s unique talent will find this album indispensable. Stunning stuff!
| | Updated: 06/09/2024Posted: 06/09/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ AIR CONDITION
POLJAZZ / ANEX 317 (Barcode: 5907513047728) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2009
One of the Godfathers of Polish Jazz, saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, remained firmly in the position of the leading Jazz figure in his country for several generations. Starting in the early 1960s as member of the legendary Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist quintet and later leading his own groups, Namyslowski kept his ears open constantly to follow the developments on the ever changing worldwide Jazz scene and his groups always included young talented players, who became his disciples. The group Air ConditionFind albums by this artist included the immensely talented keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dariusz KozakiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist and an extended percussion section, and played a kind of Jazz-Funk, which could move an elephant´s ass, not falling behind any of the US groups playing in the same vein. This album was intended for the US market, where it was released (along with several other Polish Jazz albums) by the Inner CityFind albums on this label label, admittedly without much commercial success. As usual, Americans were simply not ready to recognize any kind of Jazz happening outside of their home turf. In retrospect, this album is still a lot of fun and as Funky as they get. Sendecki´s keyboard wizardry is stunning, as always, and the leader plays plenty of nasty sax chops. Recommended!
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  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ FOLLOW YOU KITE
WARNER MUSIC POLAND 190296307577 (Barcode: 190296307577) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1980 Released: 2022
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / bandleader and a Godfather figure on the local scene, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, recorded with his sextet called Air ConditionFind albums by this artist, which also included keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dariusz KozakiewiczFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Wojciech KowalewskiFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jerzy TanskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, all by the leader.
The album was one of the very few Polish Jazz recordings released at the time, which were not included in the legendary “Polish Jazz” series, and was now released in the new “Polish Jazz Masters” series.
The music is all on the lighter side of the Jazz spectrum, supposedly part of the flourishing Fusion movement, that arrived in Poland a bit later than in Europe and even in other countries behind the Iron Curtain. Namyslowski, deeply rooted in the modern Jazz and Jazz-World Fusion genres, embraced Fusion following his short stint in the US, but that love affair was short lived. The same lineup recorded the same year another album, with included different material, called simply “Air ConditionFind albums with this title”, which was released by the PoljazzFind albums on this label label and also by Inner City in the US.
But as always with Namyslowski, he was able to weave immensely beautiful tunes, with strong melodic lines, which were ideal vehicles for his sidemen to show their chops. The absolute star of this album is the very young and insanely talented keyboardist Wladyslaw Sendecki, who was to become one of top polish Jazz pianists in the years to come. His keyboards parts, especially those played on the acoustic piano, are still absolutely stunning. Although Namyslowski was not a Fusion player, Scieranski was the epitome of Funk, and his bass playing is what gives this album the Fusiony tinge. Kozakiewicz, who is a brilliant Blues / Blues-Rock guitarist, is sadly lost here as this musical environment is not really his cup of tea.
Overall, this is a very nice historic Polish Jazz album, with great tunes and excellent performances by these splendid musicians, which is always great to return to, when in a nostalgic mood. The music lost nothing of its slick musicality and the reissue is a great tribute to Namyslowski, who sadly died in 2022.
| | Updated: 11/04/2023Posted: 11/04/2023 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | OLEJNICZAK / SENDECKI EUROPEAN QUARTET ~ BIRTHDAY LIVE #2
BLUE NOTE ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2013
This is a live recording at the Blue Note Poznan Jazz club, celebrating the club´s fourteenth Anniversary, by a wonderful quartet led by two extraordinary Polish Jazz heroes: saxophonist Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist and pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, with French bassist Laurent VernereyFind albums by this artist and British drummer Mark MondesirFind albums by this artist. Olejniczak and Sendecki share some of the glory days of the Polish Jazz in the 1970s, when they were both members of the legendary Extra BallFind albums by this artist ensemble and founders of the no less legendary Sun ShipFind albums by this artist ensemble. Both living now outside of Poland (Olejniczak in Spain and Sendecki in Germany) they are still an integral part of the Polish Jazz phenomenon, as this album proves beyond any doubt. The album includes seven pieces, two each by Olejniczak, Sendecki and Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist and the remaining one being a folk tune arranged by Sendecki.
The members of this quartet are some of the finest European Jazz musicians and the resulting album is simply exceptional in every respect. The music is all excellent from start to finish, modern full-fledged and highly spirited Jazz with numerous superb solo spots and an exceptional live ambience, which happens only rarely. It is obvious that everybody had a wonderful time and the musicians are simply giving everything they have, sharing, supporting and challenging each other constantly in perfect harmony and with telepathic thoughtfulness. Although the two soloists are naturally in the center of attention, one must immediately recognize the incredible role of the outstanding rhythm section, which stands shoulder to shoulder with the soloists at all times.
The saxophone and piano solos are all sensational and there is no exaggeration whatsoever in that statement. In many respects these performances are absolute classics, which should be taught at music schools as examples of what real Jazz is all about, especially European Jazz, as this is, again in many respects, a revelation of the European elegance and sophistication that makes all the difference. This music is completely devoid of ego trips and attempts to prove who can play faster or louder or prettier, it is simply a perfect teamwork, which is always the ground upon great Jazz music is firmly based.
The last tune on the album is dedicated to the memory of the great Polish Jazz bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist, who was not only a friend of the Polish musicians but also a dear personal friend of mine and whose tragic and premature death left a scar in the hearts of all of us.
There is not much more that needs to be said here, except for Gracias, Danke, Merci, Thanks and of course Dziekuje to all the people involved for this heartbreakingly beautiful music.
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  | SENDECKI & SPIEGEL ~ SOLACE
SKIP 9153 (Barcode: 4037688915322) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2021 Released: 2022
This is the second album by the duo comprising of Polish (resident in Hamburg) Jazz pianist / composer Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and German drummer / composer Jurgen SpiegelFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve original compositions, seven by Sendecki and five by Spiegel and one interpretation of a Pop song by Peter GabrielFind albums by this artist.
The music is quite diverse and cross-genre, based on clearly defined melodic themes, but embraces dynamic development, spontaneity and improvisation, with a possibility for both musicians to have a lot of fun and freedom to express their own ideas in the process. It is imperative not to approach this music strictly within Jazz dogmas, as it is not meant to be a Jazz affair per se, despite the fact that Sendecki has an obvious affinity and history within the genre. Since Spiegel originates from outside of the Jazz parameters, this music should be accepted for what it is rather than trying to frame it into what it is not.
The piano / drums duo seems to be a limited and difficult framework of making music together, but judging by what can be heard here, the proper attitude and amalgam of talents can produce a surprisingly powerful effect, which is able to reach a wide audience of music lovers, regardless of their musical inclinations and habits.
Sendecki is able to showcase his virtuosity here, skillfully introducing elements of Classical, Folklore and Jazz clues within his improvisations, but avoiding lengthy excursions into the abstract zone. Spiegel supports him amicably and respectfully, adding his own personal touches and keeping the music within a precise time frame, but managing to play creatively. There is an obvious feeling of camaraderie and partnership between the two musicians, mutual respect and the joy of making music together.
Overall, this is a coherent continuity from the duo’s debut album, which shows a clear path they wish to take together in the future. I am pretty certain that hearing this music live is able to provide a much stronger and immediate impact and pleasure to the listener, so catching them in a concert setting is strongly recommended. But listening to this album is definitely not a bad option as well!
| | Updated: 19/02/2022Posted: 19/02/2022 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | WLADYSLAW SENDECKI ~ PIANO
PROVOCATEUR 1039 (Barcode: 5038491103929) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007
Polish pianist / composer Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist is one of the finest representatives of European Jazz. As a child prodigy he started his classical studies at the age of 11 and performances at the age of 15. Once he discovered Jazz, his passion for music concentrated in this field and he became involved with the Polish Jazz scene, playing piano in famous Polish groups like Extra BallFind albums by this artist and Sun ShipFind albums by this artist, both of which pioneered the Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion movement. In 1981 Sendecki left Poland (as did many gifted musicians at the time) first to Sweden and later settled in Switzerland. In 1990 he moved to Germany (Hamburg) and took the resident piano chair with the excellent NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist. He played with other Polish expatriates (Leszek ZadloFind albums by this artist, Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist) in the Polski Jazz EnsembleFind albums by this artist, which also visited Israel by my invitation. This beautiful piano solo album was recorded 20 years after his last recording as a leader and is a most welcome return and a great opportunity for new listeners to get exposed to his great talent. He composed most of the music, including the three parts suite dedicated to painter Marc Chagall and the Art of painting. Three pieces by other composers are also included, reflecting his love of music by other talented composers. The album is an absolutely stunning piece of music, performed with virtuosity and deep musical sensitivity. Sendecki keeps his brilliant technique “in check”, not letting it overshadow his delicate and impressive improvisational exploits. For well-trained listeners, the Polish musical tradition, especially the piano legacy of Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, is quite evident (Chopin’s romanticism and soul-searching qualities influence all Polish piano players to this very day). The music flows beautifully from one piece to another and for me it was all over much too soon, which means it will be played again many a time. The sound quality of the album is (not surprisingly) excellent, as all the other recordings on the ProvocateurFind albums on this label label. Piano lovers, Jazz lovers or just plain music enthusiasts should find plenty of content here and even if the Artist’s name is completely unfamiliar to them, it is absolutely worth investigating. I for one am proud to have such a superb musician for a friend. Hopefully we won’t have to wait for 20 years to enjoy another album of his.
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  | WLADYSLAW SENDECKI ~ SOLO PIANO AT SCHLOSS ELMAU
ACT 9485 (Barcode: 614427948526) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2010 Released: 2010
This is a wonderful live recording of a solo piano concert by my friend, the great Polish pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. Sendecki, now living in Germany, is active in various settings in addition to his piano chair with the excellent NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist, probably the best European Big Band at the moment. This solo piano recording follows his previous solo piano album recorded three years earlier and is as beautiful. He plays mostly self-composed material and his incredible virtuosity and sensitivity as a player are truly overwhelming. An absolute must to all piano lovers!
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  | WLADYSLAW SENDECKI / ATOM STRING QUARTET ~ LE JARDIN OUBLIE / MY POLISH HEART
NEU KLANG 4198 (Barcode: 4012116419832) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2018
This is an album by the Polish (resident in Germany) pianist / composer Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, who is accompanied by the highly esteemed Polish Atom String QuartetFind albums by this artist (violinists Mateusz SmoczynskiFind albums by this artist and Dawid LubowiczFind albums by this artist, violist Michal ZaborskiFind albums by this artist and cellist Krzysztof LenczowskiFind albums by this artist). The album presents ten compositions, five of which are original composition by Sendecki, two were composed by his brother Stefan SendeckiFind albums by this artist, one was composed by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, another one by Polish Classical composer Karol SzymanowskiFind albums by this artist and finally one was composed by the German composer Wolf KerschekFind albums by this artist. Three of the compositions were arranged by the great British composer / arranger Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist.
The music focuses on relatively little known facet of Sendecki´s activity and is mostly dedicated to contemporary Classical music, with relatively limited Jazz references. The piano / string quartet setting suits this musical direction ideally of course and the chamber atmosphere prevails throughout. The piano concerto "My Polish Heart" was composed especially by Kerschek for Sendecki and was performed by him with the NDR Big Band, of which he is the resident pianist. The intimate version of this wonderful piece present here includes only part of the entire composition, but reflects the spirit of the work perfectly. All the pieces on the album are full of the characteristic Polish melancholy and lyricism, which can be found in all Polish music regardless of the genre: Classical, Jazz, Rock or Folklore.
The most Jazz oriented piece on the album is of course the "Komeda Hommage", which is a medley of two Komeda´s compositions, brilliantly combining the Jazz and Classical idioms thanks to the unique arrangement by Sendecki and the Atoms and taking a form of a beautiful suite.
This album requires very serious listening with attention to details and patience, as it offers a wealth of musical thrills in every aspect. The compositions, arrangements and performances are all loaded with deeply emotional content and are full of virtuosic performances, which are very difficult to be absorbed all at once. Each listening experience promises new discoveries of course.
Overall this is a wonderful album full of great music, which offers a Jazz-Classical Fusion of the highest caliber. Lovers of Polish music, regardless of style and fashion, should be delighted by what this album has to offer.
| | Updated: 11/11/2018Posted: 11/11/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | SENDECKI & SPIEGEL ~ TWO IN THE MIRROR
SKIP 9143 ~ POLAND ~ Smooth Jazz
Recorded: 2018 Released: 2019
This is the debut album by the duo comprising of Polish (resident in Hamburg) pianist / composer Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and German drummer / composer Jurgen SpiegelFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven original compositions, five composed by Spiegel, four composed by Sendecki, one co-composed by them both and one is an old composition co-composed by Sendecki and Polish Jazz guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, while they were both members of the celebrated Extra BallFind albums by this artist band.
The music is quite diverse, moving between romantic ballads and energetic explorations, all of which are only marginally related to Jazz, but have a strong Jazzy undercurrent. The piano / drums setting is by definition somewhat limited and in this specific case the attempt to present the drums on the same level with the piano creates a strange sonic balance that takes time to get used to.
Sendecki gets of course plenty of opportunity to display his virtuosic technique as much as his typically Polish melancholic streak, which works like a charm every time. Spiegel plays atypically, trying to stay with the melody more than traditionally be in charge of the rhythm, which is quite innovative. They are working together well, as appropriate for musicians of their statue, obviously having fun.
Overall since both these musicians don´t have to prove anything more as far as their careers are concerned, it is great to see them exploring new territory, which moves beyond the strict Jazz circle, creating music accessible to a wide audience without compromising artistic values.
| | Updated: 19/02/2022Posted: 17/05/2019 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | BRONISLAW SUCHANEK / DOMINIK WANIA ~ SKETCH IN BLUE
NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 786851249323) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2008
This beautiful bass / piano duo album presents a meeting between two generations of great Polish Jazz players. Veteran bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist was one of the most prominent players on the Polish modern Jazz scene, playing with top names, like Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist (see the groundbreaking legendary “Music For KFind albums with this title” album). He left Poland during the turbulent years of Socialist regime, first to Sweden and later to USA, where he lives now. He played with other Polish expatriates (Leszek ZadloFind albums by this artist, Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist) in the Polski Jazz EnsembleFind albums by this artist, which also visited Israel by my invitation. Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist is a Polish pianist, with an impressive list of musical achievements in spite of his young age. Wania traveled to Boston, to get his Masters degree in music and there he met Suchanek. This album is a result of their musical cooperation. Both players are virtuoso performers on their respective instruments and their cooperation is in perfect sync, creating great exchange of ideas and interplay. Both musicians contribute equally to the compositional content, each of them by writing four compositions and one composition being co-authored. There are some superb melodies here and of course great performances from start to finish, full of sensitivity and intelligence, typical European Jazz at its best. Wholeheartedly recommended!
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  | SUN SHIP ~ AQUARIUM LIVE NO.5
POLJAZZ / ANEX 303 (Barcode: 5907513047582) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
Excellent live recording in the legendary Warsaw Jazz club "Aquarium" by the Polish Jazz quartet Sun ShipFind albums by this artist, formed by keyboardist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist following his departure from the great Fusion band Extra BallFind albums by this artist, which he also co-founded some years earlier. Sendecki, as well as his three companions: saxophonist Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist and drummer Marek StachFind albums by this artist are all representatives of the second generation of the Polish Jazz scene, well educated and experienced musicians, who grew up in the shadow of their mentors like Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and others, carrying the great tradition of Polish Jazz further into the future. Somewhat tired of playing Fusion, which was the predominant style of the early 1970s, Sun Ship returns to modern Jazz based on solid melodic compositions and improvisational skill of the band members. The use of synthesizers in addition to the acoustic piano is the only "leftover" from the Fusion days, and most of the music is acoustic. Sendecki´s keyboard wizardry is plainly obvious and his fluid technique and great sense of melody are truly exquisite. Brilliant stuff!
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  | COLIN TOWNS ~ LEND ME YOUR EARS
PROVOCATEUR 1038 (Barcode: 5038491103820) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2005 - 2006 Released: 2006
British pianist / composer / arranger / bandleader Colin TownsFind albums by this artist, one the most talented and prolific European Jazz composers, cooperates often with Europe’s premiere Jazz orchestra, the German NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist from Hamburg. This album presents a series of original compositions by Towns, written especially for the NDR Big Band and performed by it. Having at his disposal such esteemed and well trained group of musicians, Towns is able to stretch his compositional and arranging skill to the limit, creating some of the most magnificent big band music ever recorded. The music covers a vast musical panorama, from exotic World Music influences, via chamber pieces and even electronics. Brilliantly performed (and superbly recorded), this is a beautiful example of music, which is fresh, intelligent and innovative, dazzling with its intricacy and moving with its melodic lyricism. The compositions include a six-part Jazz suite dedicated to and featuring the talents of Polish pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, who is the NDR Big Band’s resident pianist. There is ample space for some superb solos by the band’s members, including saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist, one of Europe’s most distinguished players today. I can hardly imagine a more perfect big band recording, which is an instant classic and a superb example of the Jazz Art Form, something that should inspire and educate other Jazz composers and arrangers and set an example for others to study. It is, after all, a collection of the entire Jazz vocabulary harmonically, stylistically and historically. Well-trained listeners should have no trouble hearing shades of New Orleans marching bands, Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist’s masterly compositions and Gil EvansFind albums by this artist’ pioneering orchestrations, mind you subtle shadows as in smiling Angels watching over Towns, never imitations or plagiarism so often heard in other big band efforts. If it was up to me I’d have made this album a compulsory learning tool for every Jazz student, but alas this is beyond my powers. I still can, however, recommend this beauty to every connoisseur of truly great music - Jazz included. As I already said – a true classic!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ TRIBUTE TO KOMEDA
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2012
There is no doubt that the legendary figure of pianist / composer / bandleader Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, the Godfather of Polish Jazz, is still very much present on the local scene, more than forty years after his untimely and tragic death. Komeda´s charisma, mystique, prophetic vision and above all his extraordinary talent as a composer keep his legacy alive generation after generation, with his musical heritage being passed on to the upcoming young Polish Jazz artists, as an integral part of the modern Polish Culture.
In the scope of those forty plus years since Komeda´s death the Polish Jazz scene produced a plethora of recordings, concerts, festivals and other events dedicated to his memory. As a result the idea of commemorating Komeda has been overexploited and often even abused by lesser quality attempts, which result in blemishing his memory rather than uphold it. Fortunately this album is definitely not one of those damaging efforts; on the contrary, it offers many new and fascinating discoveries, as well as thrilling interpretations by excellent musicians, which treat the music with respect and obvious admiration.
The album includes ten Komeda compositions, performed by several different ensembles: pianist Janusz OlejniczakFind albums by this artist with Atom String QuartetFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WrombelFind albums by this artist and his quintet (drummer Krzysztof PrzybylowiczFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Maciej FortunaFind albums by this artist, pianist Piotr WrombelFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Karol SzymanowskiFind albums by this artist) with actor Kamil MackowiakFind albums by this artist, the duo of saxophonist Andrzej OlejniczakFind albums by this artist and pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist, the duo of tuba player Zdzislaw PiernikFind albums by this artist and synthesizer player Tadeusz SudnikFind albums by this artist and finally solo piano performances by Lena LedoffFind albums by this artist.
Such diverse settings are an ideal vehicle to present the diversity of Komeda´s music and the endless possibilities, in which it can me expressed and interpreted. All the performances are truly superb, moving and deeply engaging and pay a fitting homage to Komeda´s heritage. My personal preferences are the trumpet pats by Maciej Fortuna, the incomparable piano playing of my friend Wladyslaw Sendecki and the solo piano pieces by Ledoff. But each and every musician participating in this recording deserves full admiration and respect. The quality of these live recordings in not ideal, but neither is life, so true music lovers can certainly live with it and enjoy it immensely.
The most interesting two pieces on this album are the early Komeda Jazz & Poetry compositions to poems by Jerzy S. Sito, known mainly for his work as translator, who died in 2011. Komeda´s involvement with the Jazz & Poetry movement, presented by him during the 1960 Jazz Jamboree festival, is one of the most fascinating, but sadly neglected, milestones of his career. The two pieces were restored from Komeda´s notes by the great vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, who was a member of Komeda´s group in the late 1950s. Honestly that entire program simply screams for proper restoration work.
Overall this is a superb piece of music, which is worthy of an honorable place in any serious Polish Jazz music collection and should be of interest to the many Komeda followers all over the world. Brilliant stuff!
| | Updated: 01/01/2016Posted: | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | NORMA WINSTONE ~ IT`S LATER THAN YOU THINK
PROVOCATEUR 1037 (Barcode: 5038491103721) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2006
British singer Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist has been my favorite Jazz singer for almost 40 years now, ever since I heard her performing in the late 1960s in the midst of the burgeoning British Jazz scene at the time. I always followed her extraordinary career closely and of course collected all her recordings, which in retrospect constitute a massive body of marvelous music. At the peak of the British Jazz scene in the late 1960s – 1970s she sang with the best: Michael GarrickFind albums by this artist, Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, Michael GibbsFind albums by this artist, John SurmanFind albums by this artist and many others, contributing not only her extraordinary vocal performances but also her talent as a lyricist. With the decline of the local scene she continued on the European scene, both as a soloist and with the trio AzimuthFind albums by this artist (with her husband, pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist). She is an enormously versatile performer, feeling at ease in any environment, from classic Jazz standards to Avant-Garde explorations. I always found her to be the most sensitive, highly musical and open-minded interpreter of both the music and the lyrics, which turn everything she touches into High Art. Happily for the music lovers, her talent and abilities seem to be untouched by time and she’s able to deliver her best up to this very day, which is well documented on this album as well. Accompanied by the splendid NDR Big BandFind albums by this artist (Northern German Radio Big Band resident in Hamburg), one of the best Jazz Big Bands in the world today, Norma delivers a wonderful set of songs, all brilliantly arranged by Colin TownsFind albums by this artist, who also conducted the band. The choice of material is fascinating and quite challenging as well, as Norma performs songs written by such dissimilar composers as Joni MitchellFind albums by this artist, Leonard CohenFind albums by this artist, Randy NewmanFind albums by this artist and Jaco PastoriusFind albums by this artist. Her highly personal delivery and the beautiful arrangements metamorphose these songs into completely new musical vistas, to the delight of any sensitive listener. The Big Band is used intelligently and skillfully, to serve as a perfect companion to her vocal delivery, without being overwhelming, in spite of its inherent might. The musicians are all virtuosi and highly experienced soloists, which is clearly evident from the instrumental solos, and include such renowned Jazz musicians as saxophonist Christof LauerFind albums by this artist and pianist (and my dear friend of Polish origin) Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist. The recording and sound quality are stunning and resemble the sonic excellence of other European labels like ECMFind albums on this label Records. For me this is a great example of a perfect album – the music, the musicians and a voice of a Diva – what else can one ask for? Essential food for the soul.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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