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  | KUBA BANASZEK ~ 2020
AFRO VIBE 007 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2021 - 2022 Released: 2024
This is the 2nd album by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Kuba BanaszekFind albums by this artist, this time recorded with bassist Alan WykpiszFind albums by this artist and drummer Maksymilian OlszewskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, eleven of which are a classic Jazz piano trio pieces and two are solo piano pieces, one of which features vocalist Zuza BaumFind albums by this artist.
The music is a superb example of modern Jazz, mostly delicate and introvert, elegantly played by Banaszek both on acoustic piano and the electric Fender Rhodes, which adds another layer of sound. The excellent rhythm section supports the leader amicably and unobtrusively, which is always a great strength in a piano trio. A pleasure to hear Wykpisz and his sophisticated bass lines, as he somewhat “went underground” lately and I missed his round bass notes, which appeared on many albums s few years ago.
The album is very much a trio effort, despite the fact that the leader wrote all the music, as he solos sparingly, shifting the responsibility from his shoulders to the ensemble effort, which I appreciate very much. Especially when the music becomes very melancholic and almost lethargic, and the rhythm section is what keeps it afloat. The beautifully minimalist melodic themes weaved by Banaszek are truly magical.
Although composed and recorded quite soon following the debut, this album proposes a huge step forward in the leader’s approach, showing a process of reflection and maturity. As such, the music becomes more difficult and less immediately likeable than the debut album, but offers a way more power of expression and determination, observing the “less is more” principle.
Overall, this is a beautiful and highly rewarding piece of music, albeit definitely non-trivial and demanding, certainly at the initial contact. In retrospect, it definitely deserves to be counted as one of the best Polish Jazz efforts released in 2024.
| | Updated: 14/01/2025Posted: 14/01/2025 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
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