Record Reviews

ART BLAKEY ~ THE COMPLETE COLUMBIA AND RCA ALBUMS COLLECTION SONY 887254359920 (Barcode: 887254359920) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1956 - 1959 Released: 2015 This superb Box Set includes all the albums by the seminal American Jazz drummer and pioneer of the Hard Bop genre Art BlakeyFind albums by this artist, released by the ColumbiaFind albums on this label and RCAFind albums on this label labels. These recordings span just a short period of four years, between 1956 and 1959, but they include some of the archetypical Jazz of the 1950s and document the birth of the Hard Bop era. Art Blakey and his Jazz MessengersFind albums by this artist were one of the most dominant Jazz ensembles for decades and featured some of the top American Jazz players at the time, the list of which reads like a who´s who of American Jazz: trumpeters Donald ByrdFind albums by this artist, Lee MorganFind albums by this artist and Bill HardmanFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Hank MobleyFind albums by this artist, Jackie McLeanFind albums by this artist, Ira SullivanFind albums by this artist, Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist and Benny GolsonFind albums by this artist and pianists Horace SilverFind albums by this artist, Sam DockeryFind albums by this artist, Ray BryantFind albums by this artist and Wynton KellyFind albums by this artist all play on these albums as do many other first rate players. Blakey was one of the first American Jazz musicians, who were interested in African music, looking for sources of American Jazz. He incorporated African rhythms and techniques into the way he played, which created a unique and almost immediately recognizable drumming style. The Jazz Messengers served for many years and until Blakey´s death in 1990 as one of the most important cradles of young American Jazz musicians and very many top players who arrived on the scene were groomed as members of the Messengers, including such luminaries as Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and literally dozens of others. Although this music is quite familiar to all serious Jazz fans, it is always great to hear it as played by the original musicians who "invented" it in the first place rather than listen to the countless imitations recorded over and over again since. The last three CDs in this Box Set include live recordings by Blakey and Jazz Messengers recorded in Paris, which were originally released only on French RCA and therefore are much less known. In retrospect this music still sounds fresh and sparkling today, as if absolutely untouched by time, completely justifying its classic status. Of course this is also an essential lesson in Jazz history and tradition, and as such an absolutely indispensable part of any serious record collection. Its availability will perhaps lead the young generation of Jazz players to listen to the source of the genesis of Modern Jazz.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: 07/01/2016

CD 8 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Recommend To A Friend

DAVID CROSBY ~ CROZ BLUE CASTLE 1142 (Barcode: 852550011421) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014 This is the fourth studio album by the iconic American singer / songwriter David CrosbyFind albums by this artist, released twenty one years after the release of its predecessor "Thousand RoadsFind albums with this title" (1993). Although some live recordings by Crosby, like the live album "It`s All Coming Back To Me Now...Find albums with this title" (1994) and other recordings with his old mates released as Crosby, Stills & NashFind albums by this artist and Crosby & NashFind albums by this artist, as well as the band CPRFind albums by this artist which he formed with his son singer / songwriter / keyboardist James RaymondFind albums by this artist, this solo album marks the end of an excruciatingly long wait for a new solo album by his many fans and followers. It also marks a renewed, almost feverish, span of activity which so far produced two additional new albums: "LighthouseFind albums with this title" and "Sky TrailsFind albums with this title". The album presents eleven songs, nine of which were written by Crosby or co-written by Crosby and Raymond and two which were written by Raymond. A great support band featuring Raymond (who also co-produced the album) on keyboards and other instruments, drummer Steve DiStanislaoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marcus EatonFind albums by this artist, bassist Kevin McCormickFind albums by this artist and others and surprise appearances by guests like guitarist Mark KnopflerFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist create an ideal sonic environment for the songs. The album presents a sensational collection of beautiful songs, which match the creative juices that flew when Crosby wrote the material for his seminal debut album "If I Could Only Remember My NameFind albums with this title" forty three years earlier. Musically the album returns to the typical Crosby songwriting of low key introvert conversations with himself, with awe-inspiring melodic and harmonic contents. His vocals are expressive and touching like in the old times. The music and the texts are sublime and the contemporary production and superb instrumental work all add up to create one of the best Classic Rock albums recorded in the new Millennium. All Crosby fans around the world should find this simply irresistible. Of course Crosby´s figure has a meaning way beyond his musical activity. For people my age Crosby is a voice of a generation and in retrospect a symbol of the tragically short lived American cultural and social Revolution of the late 1960s, which is sadly almost completely forgotten by now. His recent activity is a proof that our generation is not completely dead yet, although the light at the end of the tunnel is getting dimmer. Everything Crosby touched during his lifetime eventually turned to gold, and this album is a classic of the genre, definitely worth returning to or being discovered by the generation of our children and grandchildren. Peace!

Updated: 18/01/2019Posted: 23/03/2018

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

DETROIT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ~ WYNTON MARSALIS: BLUES SYMPHONY PENTATONE 8717306262323 (Barcode: 8717306262323) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 2023 Released: 2025 This is an album by the Detroit Symphony OrchestraFind albums by this artist, conducted by the Italian conductor Jader BignaminiFind albums by this artist, who is also the orchestra’s musical director, performing the “Blues Symphony”, composed by the renown American Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist in 2009. Marsalis describes it as follows: “The Blues Symphony is a seven-movement work, that gives a symphonic identity to the form and feeling of the blues”. The recording was made in close cooperation with the composer. Wynton Marsalis is undoubtedly one of the greatest American Jazz trumpeters in all time, a highly talented Jazz composer and a renowned bandleader, as well as a respected performed of Classical Music, but he is also a highly controversial figure among the worldwide Jazz community, often accused of being intolerant and despotic. Regardless of where one finds oneself with regards to this debate, there is no denying that he knows his music, which is also obvious to anybody listening to this album. In some respects, the symphony is conceptually and aesthetically similar to earlier works, which combine the Blues / Jazz threads with Classical Music, such as those of George GershwinFind albums by this artist, Leonard BernsteinFind albums by this artist or Gunther SchullerFind albums by this artist, to name just a few American composers (but there were also many European ones as well of course). My personal attitude to this amalgam is purely non-cerebral and I try to enjoy them, rather than analyze them, since purely theoretical / musical analysis often works against them, which the Yiddish phrase “nisht ahin und nisht aher” sums up perfectly. Overall, this is a very entertaining, easy-listening and enjoyable piece of music, which does not really require any serious knowledge of neither the Blues nor Symphonic Music. The orchestra performs the music superbly, the sound is very well balanced and clear, and the music is pleasant and flows elegantly, what more should one ask for?

Updated: 21/03/2025Posted: 21/03/2025

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ BLUE INTERLUDE WOUNDED BIRD 8729 (Barcode: 664140872929) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1992 Released: 2007 This album finds trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist leading a septet, his ultimate vehicle of choice after fronting smaller combos in the first decade of his career. The septet comprised of musicians, who played in his earlier groups with the addition of trombonist Wycliffe GordonFind albums by this artist, and included saxophonists Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist and Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. The fact that Marsalis´ ensembles expanded from quartet to septet was consistent with other changes in his musical path where a bigger ensemble became necessary as a tool to enable performing an ever increasingly complex and broad scope of his compositions and sophisticated arrangements. But this album also marks another dramatic change with Marsalis abandoning the idea of writing separate "songs" or "tunes" and moving into creating expanded suites in which the separate parts would be combined into a thematic whole. "Blue InterludeFind albums with this title" was the first of such extended works, comprised of many melodies, moods and rhythmic patterns, glued together by an underlying central musical concept and idea. The music is absolutely stunning and the romantic theme of the work, as it is about love after all, shows the gentle and often humorous side of Marsalis. Stylistically the music is based on the entire heritage of "classic" jazz, from its New Orleans roots and up to the almost symphonic complexity of Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist´s Jazz suites. Marsalis´ handling of the trumpet is breathtaking, but all his cohorts are first class musicians and their individual contributions are excellent throughout. This is a small masterpiece in every aspect and an immensely pleasant listening experience from start to finish. No serious Jazz collection can be complete without this gem being included!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ CITI MOVEMENT WOUNDED BIRD 3324 (Barcode: 664140332423) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1993 Released: 2008 This breathtakingly beautiful album is not only one of best works to date by trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist, but also one of the best Jazz recordings of the 1990s and a masterpiece of the genre. Performed by the Marsalis septet, which included trombonist Wycliffe GordonFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist and Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Eric ReedFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist, this immensely complex body of music was composed as the score for the ballet "Griot New York". The double album includes three musical suites, each of these split into several subsections. In many respects this recording is a culmination of the Marsalis´ career up to that moment as a player, bandleader and most of all as a composer and arranger. The music encompasses a wide stylistic range, covering all subgenres of classic Jazz, from New Orleans, Swing, Bebop and Hard Bop, Modal music and even traces of 1960s Avant-Garde. Well over two hours long, the album includes a myriad of themes and melodies, flowing over ever changing rhythmic patterns and expressing different moods. The orchestration allows for dynamic fluctuations, whereas some fragments are performed by solo piano and others feature the full power of the ensemble with the horns screaming at full blast. Although there are plenty of inspired solos, the music is obviously intended to be in the centre of the listener´s attention, rather than the abilities of the individual performers. With this album Marsalis achieved finally the status of a brilliant composer, which complimented his virtuosic ability as a player, proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is much more than a "pretty face" hyped by his label´s PR machine. This album is way more than just a platter with some music on it – it is a sublime lesson in Jazz history and essence, proving the genre´s noble status as intelligent and highly creative Art Form. In times when music is being whored and presented as a worthless mass product for imbeciles, this gem serves as a beacon showing the path for true music. Absolutely essential!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ J MOOD WOUNDED BIRD 4308 (Barcode: 664140430822) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2007 Following the departure of saxophonist Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist tightened his group into a quartet. The decision at the time not to replace Branford with another saxophonist and create a trumpet quartet, seemingly a more limited musical vehicle, was a completely conscious one and as far as Wynton was concerned he needed to concentrate the attention totally on his performances, polishing his technique and pushing his skills as player and composer beyond anything previously witnessed. The quartet with excellent new pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert HurstFind albums by this artist and drummer Jeff WattsFind albums by this artist became an incredibly tight unit, able to deliver music of the highest quality and always challenging the listener with its virtuosity and intelligence. Wynton´s compositions became more flexible and presented a wider scope of emotional delivery. This album presents a gentler, more lyrical Wynton, playing mostly his original compositions, most of which are slow tempo ballads. The relaxed and almost lush atmosphere of the music brings up gentle memories of some of the early Miles DavisFind albums by this artist work, but Wynton plays more around with the sound as opposed to Miles dance with timing. The rhythm section is simply perfect. Roberts arises as one of the greatest pianist of the era, which he later proved time after time on his solo recordings, delivering incredible solos and superb accompaniment. Hurst and Watts keep the timing like an atomic clock, but allow enough of creative delivery to keep the music interesting not only on the melodic level, but on the rhythmic level as well. Overall this is a "perfect" Jazz album in every sense – everything is just right on and everything clicks in perfect harmony. Although rarely mentioned as a classic Jazz recording, perhaps due to the fact that it lacks the groundbreaking element of radical innovation, nevertheless this is a Classic (with a capital C), worthy of a honorable place in any serious Jazz collection.

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ LEVEE LOW MOAN: SOUL GESTURES IN SOUTHERN BLUE VOL. 3 WOUNDED BIRD 7975 (Barcode: 664140797529) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1991 Released: 2008 This is the third part of the album trilogy, entitled "Soul Gestures In Southern BlueFind albums with this title", which finds trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist leading a sextet comprised of his regular band members: saxophonists Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist and Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. Williams contributes one composition with the rest of the music being written by Marsalis. As expected, the music is a further exploration of the influence of the Blues on Jazz, and for me is the strongest of the three volumes perhaps due to the wonderfully crafted arrangements. Marsalis´ compositions, now clearly showing his love and respect for Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist, are beautifully balanced and serve as ideal vehicles for the quintet to express their individual skills both as soloists and ensemble players. His beautiful tone and obvious virtuosity can be heard here in depth and enjoyed to the fullest. Although some critics have described this album as "forgettable" and "disappointing" (to quote the less offensive epitaphs) it is quite brilliant from start to finish and a highly enjoyable music experience for any true Jazz enthusiast. Some people just don´t get it, which is fine by me, as long as their limitations don´t influence others too often. This album is definitely worth exploring, as are its two companions in the trilogy and in my opinion this one is a must, so forget the critics and just listen!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ LIVE AT BLUES ALLEY WOUNDED BIRD 4675 (Barcode: 664140467521) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2007 Recorded live during a couple of nights at the Washington, D.C. club Blues Alley, this album captures 25 years old trumpeter / composer / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and his quartet doing their thing. Marsalis was already a "living legend", after spending the last half decade in the epicenter of public (Jazz and otherwise) eye. Behind him a series of Jazz and Classical Music recordings, received with almost universal applause and a long string of standing ovations at clubs and concert halls, which fallowed his live appearances. It was time to share the excitement of a live performance with a wider audience via a live recording and perhaps prove once and for all that the "living legend" status was not hype, but was based on solid grounds. The quartet, which earlier that year recorded the splendid "J MoodFind albums with this title" album, consisted of Marsalis, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert HurstFind albums by this artist and drummer Jeff WattsFind albums by this artist. The double album presents the music at the natural order of performance (with obvious editing), with each of the two records covering a separate night, two sets each night. This results in some of the tunes to be repeated twice, which of course is highly educational, as the performances are completely different, as appropriate for Jazz. The music, mostly written by Marsalis, with a few standards included as well, is mostly up tempo, which suits better a live performance situation and perhaps purposely allows the leader to "show off", proving his point. Regardless of the background information, hidden agendas and other less relevant factors, the music captured on this album is absolutely outstanding, turning it into one of the best live Jazz albums ever recorded. Wynton plays like a Greek God, with flow, technique, sound and virtuosity unparalleled by any of his peers, hitting the high register with might and sustain worthy of Maynard FergusonFind albums by this artist. The pianist delivers incredible solos, full of sublime contents both lyrically and rhythmically and the bass / drums backbone drives the music at a neck-breaking speed with elegance and zest. Whatever one might think of Wynton Marsalis as a person becomes completely irrelevant in view of the music presented here – he is a phenomenal performer and a great asset to the music, which really is all that matters. Absolutely essential piece of music!

CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ LIVE AT THE VILLAGE VANGUARD COLUMBIA 69876 (Barcode: 074646987629) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1990 - 1994 Released: 1999 This magnificent Box Set presents the Wynton Marsalis Septet recorded live at the most famous Jazz Mecca in the world, the NYC Village Vanguard club on Seventh Avenue in Greenwich Village – probably the oldest Jazz club in the world and a “holy ground”, where endless Jazz recordings have been made. The music was recorded between March 1990 and December 1994 and during those four and a half years the Septet was pretty stable, with just three musicians changing chairs: Eric Reed replaced Marcus Roberts on piano, Victor Goines replaced Todd Anderson on tenor and soprano saxophones / clarinet and finally Ben Wolfe replaced Reginald Veal on bass. The remaining four musicians are present on all recordings: Wynton Marsalis on trumpet, Wessell Anderson on alto saxophone, Wycliffe Gordon on trombone and Herlin Riley on drums. Wynton Marsalis is of course the most respected and adored Jazz virtuoso since the 1980’s and many see him as the successor of Miles Davis in the mighty Jazz Olympus. Marsalis is the epitome of a Jazz master: well bred, well educated, extremely intelligent and outspoken, with parallel highly successful musical careers in Jazz and Classical music and a revered trumpet virtuoso. Very few musicians have such an illustrious calling card to their credit. But above all these advantages Marsalis has also an incredible understanding of the Jazz idiom – both as a scholar (on the intellectual plane) and a performer / composer (on the emotional plane). His interpretations of Jazz standards are always way beyond the primeval melody - expanded and embossed with multiple layers of additional musical threads and polyrhythmic complexity. His ensembles always include the best and most skilled (usually pretty young) players, who under his direction and leadership manage to create some of the most fascinating and well played Jazz music ever. The choice of the septet as a vehicle to create the music Marsalis wants to present here is truly masterly. Seven brilliant musicians are surely plenty to produce an endless variety of solo / duo / trio improvisations at any given moment, as well as produce almost a Big Band sound when playing in unison. Therefore an incredible range of volume and density is possible and the dynamics of the music is constantly changing. Marsalis freely spans the entire stylistic spectrum of Jazz, from New Orleans to Post Bee-Bop, with a dash of free, with the band feeling equally confident all the way through. The entire set includes over 10 hours of some of the most fascinating and moving Jazz music I personally ever encountered and my musical experience would have been so much poorer if I never listened to this marvelous set.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 7 Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ SWINGING INTO THE 21ST SONY 886979442825 (Barcode: 886979442825) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1990 - 2001 Released: 2011 This extraordinary Box Set presents the celebration of music by American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and his record label ColumbiaFind albums on this label, organized in 1999 (the last year of the 20th Century) to celebrate the turn of the Century as well as the 20th Anniversary of Marsalis as a Columbia recording artist. The scope of this project was absolutely unprecedented and resulted in the release of nine albums featuring the music of Marsalis and his various bands as well as his orchestral and ballet projects to be released that year, one of which was a seven CDs Box Set of live recordings at the Village Vanguard ("Live At The Village VanguardFind albums with this title"). All these nine albums are present here, with the Box Set represented by a "best of" single CD issue ("Selections From The Village Vanguard BoxFind albums with this title"). In addition the box also includes the "All RiseFind albums with this title" project, which was written and performed in 1999 as the culmination of that year´s work, but was recorded only a couple of years later. This incredible volume of music, ranging from Jazz to Jazz-Classical Fusion, contemporary Classical, Gospel and Chamber music, all brilliantly written and performed, is honestly quite overwhelming. Marsalis has been criticized (often quite viciously), mostly unjustly, by fellow musicians, Jazz critics and other people who think they know what they are talking about, but this Box Set just puts everything in the right proportion. Even if Marsalis is not always the nicest person in the room, outspoken and opinionated, full of himself and condescending, all that is completely meaningless in view of his talent, his music and his dedication to the Jazz Art Form. A person capable of writing and performing such an immense volume of music, which is absolutely brilliant from start to finish, deserves to enjoy some vices, especially in view of the subjectivity as to what constitutes a vice and what doesn´t. A music lover will find much enjoyment from the contents of these eleven CDs, varied in style and scope but consistently intelligent, challenging and exploding with ideas. The players, singers, Jazz and Classical orchestras, choirs and everybody else involved in these recordings are all absolutely first class, as is the music, the sound and most importantly the spirit of the music. Marsalis earned his statue not because he´s a smart dresser but because he is a hard working, extremely talented and dedicated Artist – regardless of what some people might think or say. This Box Set is a testimony of how Jazz developed in the first 100 years of its history – from humble beginnings to lofty achievements. This is an essential document of Jazz music, which should be cherished and proudly appear on any serious music connoisseur´s shelf.

Updated: 26/01/2019Posted:

CD 11 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ THE MAJESTY OF THE BLUES WOUNDED BIRD 5091 (Barcode: 664140509122) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1989 Released: 2007 Following the initial period of intense search of his own musical identity, which lasted for about five years, trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist switched gears into the next phase of his illustrious career. The metamorphosis was slow and gradual, but the direction and the ultimate goal were pretty clear from the very early stages. Marsalis decided to treat his relationship with music not as a profession, where the most important facet of a musician is his skill and power of expression (or improvisational ability in Jazz), but rather as an almost messianic quest to turn music into a total art form, emphasizing its historical, philosophical, aesthetical, social and even political aspects. His albums, and often album cycles, would be much more that a series of sounds captured for posterity in a recording studio – they would become conceptual messages, in which the music would be just one layer of the total memorandum he wanted to communicate and get across, in order to educate, influence and often even preach. It didn´t take long for the music critics and later on Jazz audiences as well to start giving Marsalis a "funny" look, and later on commence a direct assault of disapproval and personal harassment. Prophets and visionaries have always suffered from public displeasure since the early days of human history, a phenomenon repeating itself time after time. This superb album is the first significant example of the "new" Marsalis. Completely emancipated from the Miles Davis complex, which haunted him from day one, he changed his relationship with the music and his instrument. From now on he was about to immerse into the roots of Jazz and present the history of the music, revitalized and interpreted his way, and where to find a better starting point than the Blues. Taking a trip back to his roots and origins, Marsalis creates a tribute to New Orleans, the cradle of Jazz. In order to express his musical ideas he realizes that he needs a larger ensemble to express his new musical vistas and therefore the quartet he used up to this point is expanded to a sextet (on this album) and soon after into a septet (a classic Jazz lineup), which would be his main vehicle for many years subsequently. The sextet includes Marsalis, saxophonists Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist and Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. The album presents two separate music cycles: the first a recording by the sextet, playing music written by Marsalis, which is a modern version of early New Orleans Jazz, the second, called "The New Orleans Function" is performed by a sextet comprising of Marsalis and five veteran New Orleans musicians, again performing music written by him. The most unusual piece of the album is a lengthy sermon, delivered passionately over a musical background, lamenting the fate of the Blues in modern times (and clearly easily applicable to Jazz in general, or even all music or all culture). The sermon was written by journalist Stanley CrouchFind albums by this artist, who was a heated Marsalis supporter from day one and part of ColumbiaFind albums on this label´s PR machine promoting Marsalis to the status of a superstar. His somewhat "overheated" (read pompous) style turned out to be one of the factors, which led to the public "mutiny" against Marsalis´ domination of the Jazz scene. But disregarding the above, the sermon, obviously expressing Marsalis´ views at the time, is completely in par with the concept of this album and plays a vital role in expressing the ideology behind it. The entire strength and superb quality of the album is remarkable and a true work of art. The New Orleans Jazz is revitalized and presented in its full glory, placing this exquisite music back on the center stage after being almost completely forgotten and abandoned, except for a miniscule community of musicians and fans. Marsalis´ ability to love, understand and convey the roots of Jazz is a rare gift, and the Jazz fans from this album on will be exposed to more of the forgotten Jazz treasures thanks to his consistent effort to uncover them. Brilliant piece of music and an essential listening experience!

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ THICK IN THE SOUTH: SOUL GESTURES IN SOUTHERN BLUE VOL. 1 WOUNDED BIRD 7977 (Barcode: 664140797727) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1991 Released: 2008 Just ten years after he first appeared on the scene as a solo artist bandleader, trumpeter / composer / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist could present a résumé, which was unprecedented in Jazz history and was by far more impressive than many lifetime achievements by his peers. Twenty albums with Jazz and Classical Music recordings, countless performances around the world, numerous compositions, prizes and awards, all these wrapped up and commercialized by an intensive PR campaign by his record label ColumbiaFind albums on this label, presented a renaissance musician, a role model and a superstar. Marsalis was just 30 years old and his ego and probably his conscience drove him incessantly to prove himself worthy of this superstar status. His musical projects became ever more complex and encompassing and Columbia indulged him in view of his success. The album trilogy, entitled "Soul Gestures In Southern BlueFind albums with this title", was Marsalis´ final project about the sources of Jazz, New Orleans Blues / Jazz connections and the emergence of modern Jazz from this primeval genealogy. For this, the first of the three albums, Marsalis formed an ad-hoc quintet by inviting legendary saxophonist Joe HendersonFind albums by this artist to play with him, supported by his regular rhythm session comprising of pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Robert HurstFind albums by this artist and drummer Jeff WattsFind albums by this artist. On a couple of tracks Watts was replaced by another Jazz legend Elvin JonesFind albums by this artist. The quintet performs five Marsalis´ compositions, which are designed to allow for extensive improvisations and interplay between the players. The music is intense and dramatic, revealing the composer´s tendency to intensify his music towards a more "chamber" direction, with layers of sound intertwined into the harmonic structure. Marsalis, Henderson and Roberts play some brilliant solos throughout the album and the overall level of musicianship is simply breathtaking. Surprisingly (or may be not) the trilogy received "icy" reviews, again accusing Marsalis of imitating or being overly influenced by Miles Davis in this project. In my view Marsalis at this point was completely cured from the Miles complex and if these recordings have anything to do with Miles, they are a loving tribute to the Masters legacy, not an imitation. Brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ THINK OF ONE WOUNDED BIRD 8641 (Barcode: 664140864122) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1983 Released: 2007 Whereas the eponymous debut album by American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist was somewhat a mixed affair, comprising of two different recording sessions with two different rhythm sections, this, his second album, is a well tempered affair. Finally heading his own permanent quintet, with brother Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist on saxophones, the wonderful pianist Kenny KirklandFind albums by this artist, bassist Phil BowlerFind albums by this artist (or Ray DrummondFind albums by this artist on half of the tracks) and drummer Jeff WattsFind albums by this artist, Marsalis in truly in his element, firmly holding the reins of a leader. With Miles DavisFind albums by this artist influence still looming in the background, Wynton´s trumpet playing shows first signs of his lyrical side with less emphasis on the technical brilliance and more relaxed flow. He contributes three original compositions and the rest of the material includes a Kirkland and Drummond (one each) originals and standards by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist and Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist. Wynton and Branford play well together, although a tension between the brothers was about to develop soon after, as a result of Branford´s tendencies towards more free-form improvisations while Wynton demanded a more conservative approach. Overall this is an incredibly solid album with no weak moments, flowing seamlessly from one tune to another, with brilliant soloing and tight but inventive rhythm section work. The 1980s were after all the age of the great return, when the two decades of experimentation first with Free form and improvised music and later with Jazz-Rock Fusion was pretty much over, leaving the Jazz musicians to re-invent modern Jazz using solid and well established ground while pushing the boundaries of virtuosity to the limit or perhaps beyond the limit – no other musician at the time was better at it than Wynton Marsalis and his crew. A classic!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ TUNE IN TOMORROW… (SOUNDTRACK) WOUNDED BIRD 7044 (Barcode: 664140704428) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1990 Released: 2008 Writing a score for a Hollywood movie was another bold step for trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist, a part of the process of expanding his milieu and establishing his career as a total musician / composer and now also arranger for a larger ensemble. The music, which is a set of 16 relative short pieces, constitutes a suite, which is coherent and makes sense as a piece of music meant to be listened to separately from the movie, something a very few soundtracks ever achieve. Stylistically it is mostly Blues based, paying a tribute to Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist orchestrations and compositional approach. The arrangements are clever and sophisticated enough to make the entire content flow without a moment of tediousness. The album also marks the first appearance of the new Marsalis Septet, which includes Marsalis, trombonist Wycliffe GordonFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Wes AndersonFind albums by this artist and Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. The expanded list of the participants in the recording 16 musicians, including two vocalists: Johnny AdamsFind albums by this artist and Shirley HornFind albums by this artist. The overall atmosphere of the album takes the listener deep into the 1930s, when Jazz was the popular music of the time, played in clubs and dancehalls. Mind you, this is not some kind of "retro" effort, but a conscious and deliberate artistic choice. If Marsalis meant to bring back the glory of that music back and expose it to contemporary listeners, he did extremely well. This is a most enjoyable album, which should bring on a smile of satisfaction, a job well done and a memorable experience. Recommended!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS ~ UPTOWN RULER: SOUL GESTURES IN SOUTHERN BLUE VOL. 2 WOUNDED BIRD 7976 (Barcode: 664140797628) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1991 Released: 2008 This is the second part of the album trilogy, entitled "Soul Gestures In Southern BlueFind albums with this title", which finds trumpeter / composer Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist leading a quintet comprised of his regular band members saxophonist Todd WilliamsFind albums by this artist, pianist Marcus RobertsFind albums by this artist, bassist Reginald VealFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. Roberts and Williams also contribute one composition each with the rest of the music being written by Marsalis. As expected, the music is a further exploration of the influence of the Blues on Jazz, this time being mostly low key as opposed to its predecessor. The beautiful melody lines are explored in depth by relaxed, but highly inspired soloing. Marsalis´ compositions are beautifully balanced and serve as ideal vehicles for the quintet to express their individual skills both as soloists and ensemble players. His beautiful tone and obvious virtuosity can be heard here in depth and enjoyed to the fullest. Although some critics have described this album as "forgettable" (to quote the less offensive epitaphs) it is quite brilliant from start to finish and a highly enjoyable music experience for any true Jazz enthusiast. Some people just don´t get it, which is fine by me, as long as their limitations don´t influence others too often. This album is definitely worth exploring, as are its two companions in the trilogy so forget the critics and just listen!

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WYNTON MARSALIS ~ WYNTON MARSALIS WOUNDED BIRD 7574 (Barcode: 664140757424) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1981 Released: 2007 American trumpeter / composer / arranger / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist is probably the most identifiable Jazz personality worldwide in the last three decades – Mr. Jazz himself! With Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and lately also Freddie HubbardFind albums by this artist no longer with us, Marsalis is also the greatest trumpet player still standing. Sometimes it seems that the responsibility that comes with these honorable positions appear to be just too much for Marsalis to handle, as he has been in the epicenter of a huge controversy concerning his personality, his public statements and even his musical achievements. It was all Guns (of appraisal) and Roses (of admiration) at first – everything just clicked for Marsalis: a prestigious recording contract with ColumbiaFind albums on this label Records, a massive PR campaign for his albums, Grammy nominations and awards and every other conceivable musical award in US and abroad (including the first ever Pulitzer Prize for music) and finally the appointment as Artistic Director of the "Jazz at Lincoln Center", a cushy and extremely well paid job, all these and more turned out to be just too much for his enemies (and he has many of those) to swallow. To say the truth, Marsalis has a mouth, which does not fall much behind his mouth´s extension, the trumpet. The man just loves to voice his opinions, and some of these are quite provocative and extremely controversial, all this on top his always highly stylish wardrobe and often snobbish behavior. All the above make Marsalis an easy target for hatred and criticism, mostly by bigots, short-sighted critics and most of all envious competitors. To tell the truth, I don´t dive a damn. For me, Marsalis was always, from day one, an example of a total musician. He not only has a tremendous gift, but he both feels and understands music, a rare combination with only a handful of musicians around the globe truly possess. His ability to perform and compose Jazz and Classical music only emphasizes his musical versatility and profound effort to study, learn and apply the acquired throughout his entire life. His love of early Jazz, from the Blues, the New Orleans Masters, Louis ArmstrongFind albums by this artist and up to Beboppers like Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, and in parallel his disrespect towards Fusion and Free Jazz are fine by me. Not everybody has to love every kind of music and even not all kinds of Jazz… as long as they do whatever they do in such magnificent fashion as he does with his music, time after time. So here comes this album, his debut solo recording. As already mentioned, Marsalis is a perpetual student, and this was just his first step, so obviously he was relaying heavily on what he knew then, which for a trumpet player means one thing: Miles Davis. In many respects this album is a direct bridge between the classic Davis recording with the second quintet, almost two decades earlier. Although his quintet does not perform any of Miles Davis compositions or even tunes from the Master´s regular repertoire, the sound and stylistic approach is quite obvious. Emphasized by the fact that about a half of the album´s tracks feature that very same quintet´s rhythm section – Herbie HancockFind albums by this artist on piano, Ron CarterFind albums by this artist on bass and Tony WilliamsFind albums by this artist on drums, and Wynton´s brother Branford MarsalisFind albums by this artist sounds remarkably like Wayne ShorterFind albums by this artist on his saxophones, the associations just keep flowing. Is it imitation? Hell no! Not even in the slightest, although Marsalis would be called a Davis imitator from now no, even when he completely changed his modus operandi on the trumpet as he went along. Again, who gives a damn? This is a magnificent album, full of superb performances and uplifting music, masterly played from start to finish. Period! And when one remembers that Marsalis was just 20 years old when this album was recorded… give me a break… this is a revelation. But Marsalis was a fast learner and his subsequent recordings will surpass this album, as good as it is, by far. Maturity has this effect on people; they just get better with what they do in time, provided of course that they are as talented as Wynton Marsalis. Side Note: The fact that Columbia dropped from its catalogue almost the entire recorded output by Wynton Marsalis is a sad and tragic testimony of our times. Columbia made a lot of money from his albums for decades, but considering the state of the music industry, there are no sentiments left. This reissue is released on the Wounded BirdFind albums on this label label; kudos to the label owner for keeping great music alive!

Updated: 01/06/2018Posted:

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WYNTON MARSALIS / ERIC CLAPTON ~ PLAY THE BLUES REPRISE 081227975913 (Barcode: 081227975913) ~ USA ~ Jazz-Blues Fusion Recorded: 2011 Released: 2011 This is a live album by two music superstars: American Jazz trumpeter / composer / bandleader Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist and British Rock / Blues guitarist / vocalist / songwriter Eric ClaptonFind albums by this artist. They are accompanied by a Jazz combo and perform nine classic Blues standards and one song written by Clapton. Legendary vocalist / guitarist Taj MahalFind albums by this artist guests on two tracks. The music was recorded at Jazz At Lincoln Center, NYC. All the orchestral arrangements are by Marsalis. The idea behind the album is to show the symbiosis between the Blues and Jazz, or at least the early form of Traditional Jazz, which is sort of “convincing the convinced”, as the relationship is completely obvious to anybody who knows his right from his left in music. Nevertheless, the idea works well and the music is performed my excellent musicians, with Clapton fitting the bill perfectly. The arrangements are all in the spirit of early Traditional Jazz, capturing the sound of the 1920s and 1930s, which Marsalis specializes in, and they are truly faithful to the period. Clapton, although playing electric guitar, keeps his soloing to bare necessity, which is exactly what is expected of him. Overall, this is a wonderful, highly entertaining album, which offers a nostalgic trip to the early days, when Jazz and Blues were completely intertwined. The sound quality is excellent and this is pure fun from start to finish, with educational value for the listeners not familiar with Jazz history.

Updated: 17/01/2025Posted: 17/01/2025

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WYNTON MARSALIS / LINCOLN CENTER JAZZ ORCHESTRA ~ CAST OF CATS NOT ON LABEL ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003 As much as I hate malls, outlets and the "shopping experience" in general, which often becomes an integral part of any touristic venture, especially in the US of A, I must admit that this album fell into my lap while visiting an outlet. Imagine my surprise when I saw a Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist album, of the existence of which I was completely unaware, being sold in a posh men clothing store called Brooks Brothers. Even more surprising was the fact that this album was recorded for and released exclusively by Brooks Brothers. It took me about a couple of seconds to realize I had a hot potato in my hand and to buy the entire stock (all 4 CDs). The album´s insert includes the following sentence: "Brooks Brothers is proud to be a major sponsor of Jazz at Lincoln Center and the exclusive clothier of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra with Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis. The LCJO and Mr. Marsalis perform throughout the world wearing Brooks Brothers clothing… bringing two great American classics together." Only in America! The above, although having absolutely nothing to do with Wynton´s music, illustrates why he is such a controversial public figure, with supporters and opponents fighting bitterly and openly in the media since many years. I must admit I find his taste in garments to be elegant and classy ;) The album includes thirteen original compositions by Wynton, all of which are performed in a quartet (or trio on tracks 5 & 10) setting, each with a different soloist, accompanied by the rhythm session comprising of pianist Bill CharlapFind albums by this artist, bassist Carlos HenriquezFind albums by this artist and drummer Herlin RileyFind albums by this artist. Wynton performs only on the opening track of the album, the rest of the soloist being members of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. The performances are all quite excellent of course, as these are some of the best Jazz players around, handpicked and trained by Wynton. The compositions are quite charming, all kept well within the early Jazz tradition, which Wynton admires and considers as the only "true" Jazz around. They do sound remarkably like Jazz standards, but of course they aren´t. Wynton´s incredible talent as a composer needs no further promotion, as his remarkable output speaks for itself for years. Overall this is simply a great, beautifully played and recorded classic Jazz album, which is good enough for any true Jazz lover (even one that dislikes Wynton and anything he stands for) to embrace. As for Wynton and his tactics – I really don´t give a damn is hi signs a pact with Brook Brothers or the devil, as long as he keeps making the fantastic music he always did and keeps Jazz alive and kicking, which is more than I can say about his adversaries. I really hope you can get a copy of this album, although when I checked upon my return home, it now costs about as much as any piece of clothing sold at Brooks Brothers. Lucky me!

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MARCUS PRINTUP / EMIL VIKLICKY ~ MARCUS PRINTUP & EMIL VIKLICKY TRIO MULTISONIC 310708 (Barcode: 741941070829) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2007 Released: 2007 This album presents a live recording by the US trumpeter Marcus PrintupFind albums by this artist supported by the wonderful trio led by Czech pianist / composer Emil ViklickyFind albums by this artist with veteran bassist Frantisek UhlirFind albums by this artist and drummer Laco TroppFind albums by this artist. Printup is primarily known from his work as a member of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra led by Wynton MarsalisFind albums by this artist. He and Viklicky met when the orchestra was performing a piece composed by Viklicky, which included a solo spot Printup was assigned to perform. The quartet together performs six pieces, three of which are Viklicky´s originals, one is a traditional Czech song arranged by Viklicky and two are standards. The performances are absolutely brilliant with Printup´s virtuosity fiercely supported by the sublime playing of the trio. In many respects this is a perfect marriage of the American Jazz tradition and the European elegance and sophistication. They compliment each other to the fullest extent creating outstanding Jazz music in the process. Uhlir´s powerful and always divinely melodic bass lines are a delight. I van hardly imagine any true Jazz lover not enjoying this music immensely. Highly recommended! Side Note This album is a part of the “Jazz Na Hrade (Jazz At Prague Castle)” series, released by the Czech MultisonicFind albums on this label label, which presents live recordings performed at various locations inside the charming Prague Castle, now the residence of the President of the Czech Republic. The series was initiated in 2004 by President Vaclav KlausFind albums by this artist, who often introduces the players himself on these albums, and symbolizes the respect and love of all things Cultural by the Czech People, including Jazz of course.

Updated: 16/03/2022Posted:

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