Record Reviews

A:K:A ~ SAD NOT ON LABEL 001 (Barcode: 5999881696028) ~ HUNGARY ~ Electronic & Ambient Recorded: 2003 Released: 2003 The Hungarian A:K:AFind albums by this artist trio consists of keyboards wizard / composer Zsolt KalteneckerFind albums by this artist, turntable operator Andrew J.Find albums by this artist and bassist Andras JeliFind albums by this artist, which of course hints as to the trio´s musical direction, which combines elements of Jazz and modern Ambient / Club music a la Acid Jazz. However, before this music is dismissed haphazardly, let me tell you that this is an absolutely beautiful album with great music, amazing groove and plenty of brilliant musical ideas. Forget prejudice and just try it – you won´t regret it. Kaltenecker, as always, plays some unearthly tricks with his keyboard, the bassist swings like mad and the entire band simply have a time of their life, as should the listener. Not to be missed!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

K.L.B. TRIO ~ JUST LIKE JAZZ X-PRODUKCIO 039 (Barcode: 5999548112229) ~ HUNGARY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009 The Hungarian K.L.B. TrioFind albums by this artist consists of keyboardist / composer Zsolt KalteneckerFind albums by this artist, guitarist Peta LukacsFind albums by this artist and drummer Gergo BorlaiFind albums by this artist. This live recording captures their electrifying performance of some of the best Fusion one can find. Both Kaltenecker and Lukacs are incredible virtuosi and their improvisations are sure to leave even the most Fusion savvy listeners amazed. The material is mostly original with most of the music written by Kaltenecker, some credited to all trio members, one standard and one Pink FloydFind albums by this artist tune, which is going to take the listener by surprise. Overall this is a superb Fusion album, full of great music and incredible playing, which are very rare these days. Never a dull moment and satisfaction guaranteed!

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

KALTENECKER TRIO ~ WINTER`S TALE PERIFERIC 215 (Barcode: 5998272708715) ~ HUNGARY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2007 Released: 2011 Absolutely brilliant album by Hungarian Kaltenecker TrioFind albums by this artist, led by pianist Zsolt KalteneckerFind albums by this artist with bassist Viktor HarsFind albums by this artist and drummer Gergo BorlaiFind albums by this artist. The trio performs eleven original pieces, nine of which are composed by the pianist and one each by the other trio members. The music is absolutely brilliant from start to end and although completely within the mainstream tradition it manages to keep the listener at his toes continuously, which is quite a challenge. Kaltenecker has a great sense of melody and his technically brilliant piano performance simply sparks. The rhythm section gives the pianist a formidable support throughout, always right there where they are most needed. This album was originally released only in Japan and now finally gets its well-deserved local release. Piano trio lovers will have a field day with this album, same as people who love intelligent mainstream Jazz with brilliant performances. Highly recommended!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ZSOLT KALTENECKER ~ IMPOSSIBLE R&V 001 (Barcode: 5999548111628) ~ HUNGARY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2007 Keyboards wizard / composer Zsolt KalteneckerFind albums by this artist is definitely one of the most interesting Hungarian musicians in the last decade. His amazing technique, regardless if he plays the acoustic piano or an array of synthesizers, as well as his brilliant writing, again regardless if in an acoustic Jazz setting, hardwired Fusion or Ambient music, are always first rate and listening to his albums is quite an experience. This wonderful album presents Kaltenecker as a solo performer, playing both pre-composed pieces and freely improvised ones, using an electronic synthesizer programmed to emulate instruments like clavichord, harpsichord and guitar. The effect is pretty amazing and the entire album is one heck of a listening experience, certainly different from almost anything else out there. Wholeheartedly recommended to all keyboards freaks, especially those who like more ambitious Jazz oriented music!

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend