Record Reviews

ROLF KUHN / JOACHIM KUHN ~ RE-UNION IN BERLIN B.FREE 6271 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1965 Released: 2016 This is a reissue of a legendary album by brothers: clarinetist Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist and pianist Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with bassist Klaus KochFind albums by this artist and drummer Reinhard SchwartzFind albums by this artist originally released in 1965 by CBSFind albums on this label in West Germany. Joachim Kuhn, Koch and Schwartz formed the Joachim Kuhn TrioFind albums by this artist, the first modern / Free Jazz group in East Germany. Rolf, the older brother, who lived at the time in West Germany, joins the trio to form a sensational quartet, recording this, one of the pivotal modern German / European Jazz albums. The album presents five original compositions, three composed by Joachim and two by Rolf, recorded at the renowned Amiga Studios in East Berlin. The music is a fascinating mixture of tradition and modernism, with Rolf exploring completely novel approach to the clarinet and Joachim developing his advanced harmonic structures, which were about to turn him into one of the greatest pioneers of European Jazz. This album and the "SolariusFind albums with this title" album recorded a year earlier and released on the AmigaFind albums on this label label constitute the early iconic recordings by the Kuhn BrothersFind albums by this artist, which to this very day sound absolutely stunning and lost nothing of their power of expression and historic significance. As usual in such circumstances, it is truly amazing that this music, which signifies the freedom of expression and intellectual liberty, was recorded at the heart of the most oppressive regime behind the Iron Curtain, similar to the numerous other Free Jazz recordings released by the East German Amiga label. This phenomenon deserves a serious historical study, which strangely has not been tried so far. For connoisseurs of early European Free Jazz and listeners interested in the development of Jazz in Europe, this album is an absolute must have. But of course the album offers sublime music, which any serious Jazz fan anywhere on this planet should be able to enjoy and appreciate, regardless of its historic significance. A true gem!

Updated: 08/10/2018Posted: 08/10/2018

CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

PASCAL VON WROBLEWSKY ~ SEVENTIES SONGBOOK DUNEFISH 693723125121 (Barcode: 693723125121) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Soul Fusion Recorded: 2009 - 2011 Released: 2012 This is an album by German vocalist Pascal von WroblewskyFind albums by this artist, which finds her revisiting the music of her youth and singing ten new arrangements of classic 1970s Pop / Rock / Blues material. The album was recorded in an intimate setting with guitarist / keyboardist Jurgen HeckelFind albums by this artist, who was also in charge of all the arrangements, bassist Pepe BernsFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter MichailowFind albums by this artist. I first heard von Wroblewsky when she recorded her debut album "Swinging PoolFind albums with this title" released on the East German AmigaFind albums on this label label thirty years ago, when Europe was still divided by the Iron Curtain. Her warm, soulful voice and wonderful sense of melody were already present on that album and they stayed intact over the years, as this album duly proves. Although von Wroblewsky is not a native English speaker, her pronunciation and accent are almost perfect and the ever so slight "foreign" feel is simply charming rather that disturbing. The choice of the material is perfect and suits perfectly the vocalist´s range and sensibilities, moving easily between Blues, Soul and Rhythm And Blues, always elegant, highly expressive and beautifully aesthetic. The instrumental arrangements are exquisite, delicate and display nothing but good taste. They are soaked in Blues and Jazz feel and suit the vocalist´s performances ideally. Heckel plays stunning guitar parts, well audible and yet not overshadowing the vocals. The acoustic bass adds a lot to the intimacy and Jazzy feel of the album and the delicate and elegant drum parts are also right on the money. Overall this is heartwarming to see that von Wroblewsky manages to stay relevant in a reality where quality music is no longer the name of the game. Although full of nostalgic feeling for better times, this album is by no way dated, as classic tunes obviously live forever and when treated as gracefully and stylishly like here, absolutely nothing can go wrong. For people my age this album is a wonderful trip down the memory lane, but for younger listeners this is a lesson on how to treat songs respectfully and carry them into future without annihilating them on the way. Very well done Milady!

Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 16/07/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ROLF KUHN ~ SOLARIUS EDEL CONTENT 4029759080473 (Barcode: 4029759080473) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1964 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the seminal album by legendary German clarinetist / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist (born 1929), recorded with a quintet, which also included his younger brother pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist (born 1944) and bassist Klaus KochFind albums by this artist and two Polish Jazz legends: saxophonist Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents six pieces: three original compositions by Rolf Kuhn, two original compositions by Joachim Kuhn and one arrangement of a folk tune. Over the years this album achieved a legendary status and became a highly sought after collector´s item, because of its political implications, as well as being one of the earliest East European Jazz recordings and an important cornerstone of European Jazz in general. The album was recorded three years after the Berlin Wall, which divided the city until 1989, was constructed and served during that period not only as a symbol of division of Germany into two separate States living in a constant state of political tension, but in fact also as a symbol of the imaginary Iron Curtain, which divided the European Continent into two opposing political camps, engaged in the Cold War, which periodically threatened to become "hot". Rolf Kuhn left East Germany (or DDR as it was called at the time) in 1950, shortly after Germany was split into two separate states, and moved to West Germany. For several years he lived and performed in the USA, establishing his position as one of the top clarinet players in the world. Upon his return to West Germany he continued his prolific career. Meanwhile his younger brother Joachim Kuhn lived in DDR and led his own trio, which was a pioneering Free Jazz outfit at the time. The fact that the meeting of the Kuhn brothers captured on this album happened is one of those "against all odds" situations that often happened in East Europe. This was by all means a meeting of the Giants of East European modern Jazz, with Urbaniak arriving from the legendary Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist quintet, Bartkowski from the no less legendary Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist quartet, Koch who played in the Joachim Kuhn trio and finally the two brothers, who despite the age difference are true musical twins. Together the quintet plays some of the best modern European Jazz ever captured on record, with great melodies expanded into lengthy solos played perfectly by all the musicians involved. Listeners familiar with the Polish Jazz scene will find this music quite similar to the Komeda and Namyslowski albums receded around that time, which present the same formula and even sound very similar to this album. Rolf Kuhn plays some of the best Jazz clarinet ever and no true Jazz connoisseur can honestly afford not to have this album in his collection. The rapport and incredible telepathic communication between these musicians, as well as the incredibly tight musical environment that pushed the players to their limits resulted in one of the all time best Jazz albums recorded in East Europe, which lost absolutely nothing of its beauty and incredible power in the five decades that passed since. They don´t make music like that any more, which means this is an absolute must and an essential piece of music history! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 11/05/2016Posted: 22/03/2016

CD 1 Essential Recommend To A Friend

SYNOPSIS ~ SYNOPSIS EDEL CONTENT 4029759080480 (Barcode: 4029759080480) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1974 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the album by the East German quartet SynopsisFind albums by this artist, which comprised of legendary pioneers of Free Jazz / Improvised Music in that country: saxophonist Ernst-Ludwig PetrowskyFind albums by this artist, trombonist Conrad BauerFind albums by this artist, pianist Ulrich GumpertFind albums by this artist and drummer Gunter SommerFind albums by this artist. The quartet performs six pieces, four of which are credited in turn to each of the quartet members, one is a group composition by all four participants and one is based on a Folk tune. A month before recording this music Synopsis recorded another session for the FMPFind albums on this label label based in West Berlin, which was released later on. The music is a stunning example of early East European Avant-Garde, which moves between Free Jazz and Improvised Music, something radically different and highly surprising and in full contrast to what one might expect was happening in Jazz behind the Iron Curtain. Although these musicians had contact with their eastern neighbors in Poland, who were already involved in creating their own Avant-Garde scene at the time, as well as meeting western musicians while performing at Warsaw´s Jazz Jamboree festival, but the fact that such adventurous music was created and than released is completely baffling, considering the fact that East Germany was the most closely censored and culturally limited of all the Eastern Block countries (see Side Note below). Even in retrospect this music sounds poignant and striking, which of course is not that surprising now, as these four musicians have all reached legendary status on the European Improvised Music scene. Each of them has a completely unique voice on a global scale and this early recording should be a revelation to all the listeners who did not hear it at the time it was created. The urgency and unlimited longing for freedom by people living under an oppressive political regime explodes here in full, driving the music to the limits known at the time and beyond. And yet underneath all that havoc there is still the typical German correctness and almost autistic separation from savoir vivre. Overall this a classic of the genre and a first class document of European Jazz history. Since this album had a very limited reach in the first place, the fact that it is available again should make hordes of Improvised Music connoisseurs extremely happy. Not to be missed! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 18/03/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

UWE KROPINSKI ~ SOLO EDEL CONTENT 4029759080497 (Barcode: 4029759080497) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1985 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the excellent debut album by the East German guitarist Uwe KropinskiFind albums by this artist, recorded solo on acoustic guitar. Kropinski performs six pieces, all or which are his original compositions. The music is an amalgam of Jazz and ethnic influences, obviously Spanish but also many others, beautifully melodic and fascinating rhythmically. Kropinski displays amazing virtuosic abilities and technique, which combined with his compositions, turn this album into a delightful and passionate listening experience. The overall atmosphere is somewhat similar to the Al Di MeolaFind albums by this artist acoustic recordings, but of course is completely unique and should not be considered as an attempt to copy anybody else. The album is also beautifully recorded and is a true delight from start to finish for acoustic guitar fans, losing nothing of its splendor over time. This album is another proof of the diversity and strength of the East German music scene, which against all odds managed to stay up to date with everything that happened musically behind the Iron curtain. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 06/06/2016Posted: 06/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

PASCAL VON WROBLEWSKY ~ SWINGING POOL EDEL CONTENT 4029759080503 (Barcode: 4029759080503) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion Recorded: 1986 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the excellent album by the East German vocalist Pascal von WroblewskyFind albums by this artist, recorded with a large ensemble comprising of the top Jazz players active at the time, conducted by keyboardist / arranger / composer Reinhard WalterFind albums by this artist. She performs nine songs, eight of which are standards and one is an original composed by Walter. Wroblewski has a wonderful strong and soulful voice and the choice of the material and the superb arrangements combined created a first class Jazz-Rock / Soul-Jazz / Funk album, which is as good as anything recorded on the other side of the Iron Curtain at the time. Even her English language pronunciation and accent are almost perfect. Most listeners to this album in a blindfold test situation would bet their life that the vocalist is of Afro-American ancestry, which of course is a great compliment. But Wroblewsky is not an imitator and her vocal style has mannerism of her own, which makes it completely unique. She also sings scat and vocalese as skillfully as she sings lyrics. In short this is a wonderful forgotten gem, which sound as good today as it did at the time of its release. The great vocals and superb instrumental parts are simply spotless and fans of Soul-Jazz should find this stuff irresistible. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 06/06/2016Posted: 06/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

USCHI BRUNING / ERNST-LUDWIG PETROWSKY ~ KONTRASTE EDEL CONTENT 4029759080510 (Barcode: 4029759080510) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1987 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the phenomenal album by the Avant-Garde duet of female vocalist Uschi BruningFind albums by this artist and the iconic East German Jazz multi-instrumentalist (flute / clarinet / saxophone) / composer Ernst-Ludwig PetrowskyFind albums by this artist. Together they perform twelve tunes, eight of which were composed by Petrowsky, one by Bruning, another one by East German Jazz musician Eberhard WeiseFind albums by this artist and the remaining two are standards. Bruning, who except for one case is not singing lyrics and only uses her voice to produce wordless vocalese, is an absolute maverick, freely moving between melodic passages into screams, shouts and shrill almost operatic high tones. Connected telepathically to Petrowsky, together they produce a series of duets, which redefine the meaning of Avant-Garde Jazz vocals. Petrowsky is brilliant regardless which instrument he chooses to play on a given tune, and his diverse stylistic approaches are plainly demonstrated herein. Absurdly, he is the "more conventional" performer on this album, in contrast to his traditional position of innovator and groundbreaker. The pair manages to create a wonderful balance, which results in this highly unconventional music to be almost "easy" for the listener. Of course the label "Art of the Duo" applies without reservation to this album. Listening to this music in retrospect one can not cease to wonder how on earth such unconventional, free-spirited, Avant-Garde and plainly anti-establishment subversive music was not only recorded but also released on a State owned label in the most oppressive Socialist Country at the time, famous for its infamous Stasi secret police. But people familiar with the history of Jazz behind the Iron Curtain know of the existence of endless such absurdities. Another question of course is why the people under oppression produced such daring music whereas those living in the "free world" were at the same time recording mostly absolutely obscene garbage. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 11/05/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

FEZ ~ FEZ EDEL CONTENT 4029759080527 (Barcode: 4029759080527) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1975 - 1977 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the only album by the East German Jazz-Rock Fusion quartet FezFind albums by this artist, which comprised of trombonist Conrad BauerFind albums by this artist, pianist Hannes ZerbeFind albums by this artist, bassist Christoph NiemannFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter GroningFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, four of which were composed by Bauer and two by Zerbe. Although stylistically Fez belonged clearly to the Jazz-Rock Fusion, it was definitely one of the most unusual representatives of the genre. With trombone and acoustic piano as the lead instruments and a rocking rhythm section the group played a wonderful mixture of Rock oriented but sounding like Jazz tunes, which was completely unique and had no parallels neither in their country nor worldwide. All four members of the group were virtuosic musicians and their interplay and cooperation was always spotless. The original music was based on excellent melodic themes which were then improvised upon at length, as appropriate for Fusion. With a bit of imagination one can "hear" this music as performed by a lead guitar and electric keyboards, but the unusual instrumentation used here turns it into a one of a kind experience. The trombone, a much loved instrument in German Jazz (see the unprecedented work by Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist and others) gets here a wonderful exposure as an all encompassing instrument, capable of bloodcurdling soloing way beyond anybody´s imagination. Bauer´s love of Free Jazz and Improvised Music can be spotted herein as well during some of the more ecstatic displays of his talents. But the three Fez members alongside Bauer also contribute some topnotch moments: Zerbe plays Funky Boogie-woogie passages, which are pure gold; Niemann plays great groves on the electric bass and Groning skillfully adds a series of polyrhythmic barrages, which add a framework to the entire proceedings. In retrospect this music still sounds incredibly fresh and innovative, regardless of the passing time. It is still so unique that it deserves to be taught at music schools as an example of a triumph of mind over body, which Bauer keeps displaying here. The fact that it is available again is a joyful opportunity to be re-discovered by the younger generation of listeners. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 11/05/2016Posted: 19/03/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

HANNES ZERBE ~ BLECH BAND EDEL CONTENT 4029759080541 (Barcode: 4029759080541) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion Recorded: 1984 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the fascinating album by the Avant-Garde pianist / composer Hannes ZerbeFind albums by this artist and his Brass Band, an eighteen-piece brass ensemble consisting mostly of East German (DDR) players and three guests from behind the Iron Curtain: Dutch saxophonist Willem BreukerFind albums by this artist, British trumpeter Martin MayesFind albums by this artist and West German tuba player Pinguin MoschnerFind albums by this artist. Together they perform five pieces, one of which is an original composition by Zerbe, three are his arrangements of compositions by Austrian / Jewish composer Hans EislerFind albums by this artist and Russian composer Alexander MossolowFind albums by this artist and the remaining one is by German composer Paul DessauFind albums by this artist. Of course these three composers were all "approved" by the DDR regime (Eisler even composed the DDR National Anthem) and the choice is by no means incidental. The modus operandi applied by Zerbe is to play initially a straightforward part of the composition and then let the band enters a lengthy Free Form collective improvisation part, finally returning to the composition at the closing of each piece. This adventurous and highly unique approach proves very effective and the resulting music has a powerful impact. Of course Zerbe also pays tribute to the German Brass Band tradition, which was an important element of the German musical scene for centuries. Why such Avant-Garde music was allowed to exists and was recorded by the State label is a part of the many absurdities that existed in the Socialist countries at the time, with the Regime seeing Art in general and Jazz in particular a sort of pressure valve, which enabled the musicians to express themselves relatively freely, and using this as a tranquilizer of political unrest. As a result, some of the most advanced Avant-Garde music was created behind the Iron Curtain, with DDR and Poland leading the way. In retrospect this is an intriguing document of the era and a piece of music which is every bit as challenging today as it was at the time it was created. For Free Jazz / Improvised Music listeners this is something none of them would like to miss! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 13/05/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

SINTI SWING QUINTET ~ BEI MIR BIST DU SCHON EDEL CONTENT 4029759080558 (Barcode: 4029759080558) ~ GERMANY ~ Gypsy Jazz Recorded: 1986 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the excellent album by the East German Gypsy Jazz ensemble Sinti Swing QuintetFind albums by this artist, which comprised of lead guitarists Fredi AnsinFind albums by this artist and Hans LauenbergerFind albums by this artist, rhythm guitarist Wilfried AnsinFind albums by this artist, bass guitarist Alfred AnsinFind albums by this artist and violinist Bernd HuberFind albums by this artist. They perform fourteen Gypsy / Swing Jazz pieces, twelve of which are standards and two are originals by the band members. The music is kept strictly in the Django ReinhardtFind albums by this artist / Stephane GrappelliFind albums by this artist Hot Club de FranceFind albums by this artist tradition. These familiar tunes serve as vehicles for the band members to show their virtuosi skills and the album does not disappoint in that respect (or any other respect for that matter). As a matter of fact this is one of the best Gypsy Jazz album recorded after the Godfathers of the genre no longer performed. The album is also excellently recorded and altogether is simply a joyful experience from start to finish. For Gypsy Jazz fans this is a great opportunity to discover a little known, but excellent album they should enjoy immensely. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 04/06/2016Posted: 04/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

CONRAD BAUER ~ LIVE IM VOLKERSCHLACHTDENKMAL EDEL CONTENT 4029759080565 (Barcode: 4029759080565) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1988 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the astounding album by the Avant-Garde East German trombonist / composer Conrad BauerFind albums by this artist, which was recorded live at the Monument to the Battle of the Nations in Leipzig and which presents Bauer playing solo trombone and performing four original compositions he wrote. The unique sonic environment of the location, which includes a natural delay and echo, create an almost supernatural effect, similar to the famous solo recordings made inside the Taj Mahal by flautist Paul HornFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Bauer, an absolute virtuoso of the trombone, utilizes the magic environment to create a series of incredible sonic sculptures, which sound like absolutely nothing else in this world. His ability to create such a variety of different sounds from the seemingly limited instrument is simply miraculous and it transforms the trombone in his hands into full fledged improvising instrument by no means inferior to the other brass instruments. Bauer, who was one of the pioneering East German improvisers, recorded with many diverse ensembles, from Jazz-Rock (FezFind albums by this artist) to Improvised Music (SynopsisFind albums by this artist) and others. Following the unification of Germany Bauer continues to be a prominent member of the German Improvised Music scene. In the historic perspective this recording was made a year and a half and released less than a year before the Berlin Wall was finally dismantled, marking the end of the DDR. This means that this was one of the last Jazz albums released in the DDR. In retrospect one just can´t stop wondering how such daring and unconventional music was recorded and released by the most oppressive East European State. This is an absolute essential listening to all trombone players, trombone lovers and of course open-minded listeners who like to take risks in order to make new discoveries. Brilliant stuff! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 14/05/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

FUN HORNS ~ NATURAL MUSIC EDEL CONTENT 4029759080572 (Barcode: 4029759080572) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1988 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the excellent debut album by the East German quartet Fun HornsFind albums by this artist, which consisted of saxophonist Volker SchlottFind albums by this artist, flautist / saxophonist Thomas KlemmFind albums by this artist, trombonist Jorg HukeFind albums by this artist and trumpeter Joachim HesseFind albums by this artist. They perform ten pieces, seven of which are originals co-composed by all four members of the quartet, one is a Classical piece, one was composed by Schlott and the last one was composed by John TchicaiFind albums by this artist. The music is a phenomenal mixture completely cross-genre brilliant music, which emphasizes the possibilities of a horn quartet without the rhythm section. These brilliant compositions and extraordinary performances are simply breathtaking and in retrospect light years ahead of their time. As all the reissues of the East German recordings, this album also demonstrates that political oppression can not win over talent and human ingenuity. Connoisseurs of horn (brass) music will find this album absolutely irresistible, regardless if the music played is Classical, Jazz or Avant-Garde. The virtuosic performances and superbly clever arrangements are above all delightful and aesthetically charming and the incredible sense of humor turns this music into a rare gem. Wholeheartedly recommended! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 10/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

VARIOUS ARTISTS ~ JAZZ AUF AMIGA 1956-1962 EDEL CONTENT 4029759080589 (Barcode: 4029759080589) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1956 - 1962 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the album which documents early Jazz recordings made in East Germany. It collects sixteen tracks recorded between 1955 and 1962 by various East German ensembles, such as Jazz Optimisten BerlinFind albums by this artist, Johannes RediskeFind albums by this artist Quintet, Werner PfullerFind albums by this artist Quintet and others, as well as ensembles led by Czechoslovak bandleader Gustav BromFind albums by this artist. Stylistically the music covers everything between traditional Dixieland Jazz to early modern Jazz, presenting a wide scope of the East German Jazz scene and the excellent level of musicianship involved. This album is not only a collection of great Jazz tracks but more importantly a historical document that keeps these recordings alive for posterity. Recorded at the time when East Germany was almost completely isolated politically and economically from Western Europe, it shows that modern Jazz trends managed to trickle through the country´s borders and were picked up by those wonderful musicians. For people interested in the development of Jazz behind the Iron Curtain, this is a must have, especially in vie of the fact that these recordings have a wonderful sound quality, which is pretty rare for collections of such type. Recommended! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/06/2016Posted: 12/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

JAZZ WERKSTATT ORCHESTER ~ AUS TEUTSCHEN LANDEN EDEL CONTENT 4029759080596 (Barcode: 4029759080596) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1972 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the excellent album by the East German Jazz Werkstatt OrchesterFind albums by this artist, an ensemble consisting of thirteen players, which included the best Jazz musicians active at the time, like trombonist Conrad BauerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Ernst-Ludwig PetrowskyFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Ulrich GumpertFind albums by this artist, drummer Gunter SommerFind albums by this artist and others. The orchestra performed a five-part suite based on German Folk songs, written and arranged by Gumpert. The album was originally released in 1977, five years after this music was recorded, to commemorate a series of concerts called "Jazz In Der Kammer" and to celebrate the 100th concert. The music included here was recorded during the 48th concert of that series. The music is very unique, combining the Big Band tradition, the German Brass Band tradition and folklore and Free Jazz, which was the preferred modus operandi of the ensemble members. Together the resulting music is a phenomenal expression of cross-genre beautiful weirdness. Following the opening statement, which consists of a different folk melody in each of the suite´s parts, the players perform expanded solos, which in turn evolve into spontaneous Free Jazz group improvisations, which are insanely intensive and technically dazzling. There are very few recordings of such kind in existence, which turns this album into a rara avis. The fact that this music was recorded and released in East German is truly amazing and pretty incomprehensible. But despite the political oppression and censorship East Germany managed to produce some of the most amazing early European Jazz, of the Avant-Garde and Improvising Music variety. For connoisseurs of Free Jazz this is an absolute must! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 11/06/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ULRICH GUMPERT ~ `N TANGO FUR GITTI EDEL CONTENT 4029759080626 (Barcode: 4029759080626) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1982 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of the solo piano album by the East German Jazz pianist / composer Ulrich GumpertFind albums by this artist. It presents five original compositions, all by Gumpert. Gumpert, who was active on the East German Jazz scene in such diverse environments as Jazz-Rock Fusion and Free Jazz / Improvised Music, shows on this album his more lyrical side, playing his compositions with are based on clear melodic themes and than expanded into lengthy free form improvisations. The music moves between modern Jazz and contemporary Classical forms, full of highly sensitive and emotional gestures. Experienced listeners will find here traces of influences and quotes of phrases by such diverse piano Masters / composers as Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist, Erik SatieFind albums by this artist and the German born Austrian / Jewish composer Hanns EislerFind albums by this artist (whose fascinating life story is a must read). Gumpert incorporates all these influences subtly, but lovingly, creating his own unique amalgam. Although complex and intellectually demanding this music is also accessible due to its lyrical and melodic nature. Therefore modern piano music connoisseurs, regardless of their genre of choice, should find this music fascinating and highly rewarding. In retrospect the music lost nothing of its power and charm and is still a superb listening experience. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 11/05/2016Posted: 20/03/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

HANS-GUNTHER WAUER / GUNTER SOMMER ~ VERSCHRANKTE KONSTRUKTION EDEL CONTENT 4029759080633 (Barcode: 4029759080633) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1986 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of an album by a duo of East German improvisers: organist / composer Hans-Gunther WauerFind albums by this artist and drummer / composer Gunter SommerFind albums by this artist. It presents eight original compositions, three composed by Wauer, two composed by Sommer and three co-composed by the two musicians. The music was recorded in the Cathedral of Merseburg during a festival of organ music. The magnificent church organ is meant to be played solo of course, or to accompany chants sung during prayer, but it can be occasionally found also in quite different musical environments, including Jazz and Improvised Music, like the project presented here. Pairing instruments with the church organ is of course an extremely difficult and complex task, both musically and sonically, as the overwhelming sound produced by the organ often surpasses everything else in the vicinity, but this project masterfully combines the organ with a most unlikely companion – a drum set. The music, although mostly improvised, is still very much under the spell of the dominant organ sound, which brings associations of the organ music tradition going way back to the times and work of Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist. Wauer creates a modern polyphonic sound not limited by fixed meters or scales, but whatever his efforts might strive to achieve the result still sounds similar to what people associate with church organ music. It is Sommer who brilliantly adopts the drum set to play along with the organ, which is probably the most successful attempt of this kind ever made. His absolute control of the unlimited possibilities of the drums present, both rhythmically and melodically, is simply extraordinary. The urge to move forward and attempt seemingly impossible amalgams is one of the key characteristics of European Jazz, and this album is just one of the numerous such attempts. In retrospect, this is still one of the most successful and interesting projects of this kind, which lost absolutely nothing of its fascination and intrinsic beauty over time, not to mention its originality. Open minded listeners, who love church organ music, should have a field day with this album, and of course Improvised Music connoisseurs will find this lost gem to be simply irresistible. Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 11/05/2016Posted: 19/03/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

AXEL DONNER ~ AXEL DONNER QUARTETT EDEL CONTENT 4029759082941 (Barcode: 4029759082941) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz Recorded: 1987 Released: 2012 This is a reissue (first time on CD) of an album by the East German pianist / composer Axel DonnerFind albums by this artist, recorded with his quartet which also included saxophonist Thomas KlemmFind albums by this artist, bassist Wolfgang MusickFind albums by this artist and drummer Dieter EhrhardtFind albums by this artist. On three tracks the quartet is expanded to a sextet with the inclusion of trumpeter Joachim HesseFind albums by this artist and percussionist Mario WurzebesserFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, all by Donner. The music is a very melodic modern Jazz, well within the mainstream idiom, and with dominant Afro-Cuban rhythmic patterns. Very well composed and perfectly executed, this album proves that East German Jazz was not only about Avant-Garde and mainstream and even traditional Jazz existed and thrived there as well. Donner is an excellent musician, who plays perfectly well in diverse stylistic situations, always fluent and interesting. Klemm is also an excellent soloist, capable of playing melody lines and fierce improvisations at the same level of professionalism. Musick pays some very hot licks on the electric fretless bass and Wurzebesser drives the music relentlessly ahead. In some respect this album is similar to Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s Latin Jazz period, but it presents an individual approach and great original compositions. Fans of melodic, Latin oriented modern Jazz will find this album to be one of the best one can get in that particular niche. Of course the music lost nothing of its vitality and excellence over time and sounds really very inviting today. It´s great to see it available again! Side Note: As all the East European countries under the Socialist regime, East Germany, or DDR as it was known at the time, had only one state owned and controlled Music Company, which released most of its productions on the AmigaFind albums on this label label. Among the many Amiga releases the legendary "orange J" series was dedicated to Jazz recordings, many of which were licenses from the West, but others were original productions, mostly of Jazz made in DDR. Some of these releases, like the one described above, were absolute gems. Following the unification of Germany, the Amiga albums disappeared from the face of the earth and only in 2012 a German label reissued 15 Amiga Jazz albums on CD. They are all worth checking out!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: 16/05/2016

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

SKALDOWIE ~ KRYWAN SESSIONS 1971-1973 – COMPLETE GERMAN RADIO RECORDINGS KAMELEON 17 ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2012 This album by the legendary Polish group SkaldowieFind albums by this artist, founded by brothers: Andrzej ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, keyboardist, composer, arranger and leader) and Jacek ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, multi-instrumentalist) presents an alternate version of their great Prog magnum opus "Krywan, KrywanFind albums with this title" recorded and released originally in Poland. These recordings were made in East Berlin for the East German AmigaFind albums on this label label to be used on the local market (a common practice in those days in the Socialist Countries) and were supposed to feature German lyrics. However, only two of the five songs on this album are sung in German and the remaining three songs are sung in the original Polish versions. The other group members on this album are: guitarist Jerzy TarsinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Konrad RatynskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jan BudziaszekFind albums by this artist. As expected, these versions of the material appearing on the original album are quite different, since the extended instrumental parts were mostly improvised and improvisations hardly ever sound the same. Also slightly different arrangements and instrumentations are used here as opposed to the original. In addition the sound and ambience of these recordings are again different from the original. Overall this is quite a rare case of a seminal album being recorded twice in two different versions. Considering the fact that "Krywan, Krywan" is considered as one of the most important recording of the East European Prog scene, the existence of an alternate version of the album is a most welcome event to the many fans of the group in general and hardcore aficionados of this release in particular. This album is perhaps not as essential as the original, but many Prog fans all over the world will find it a worthy addition to their collection. Warmly recommended!

Updated: 16/05/2016Posted:

CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend

ROLF + JOACHIM KUHN QUINTET ~ TRANSFIGURATION MPS 602527224787 (Barcode: 602527224787) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music Recorded: 1967 Released: 2009 This is a reissue / remaster of the legendary album by the German Kuhn Brothers, clarinetists / composer Rolf KuhnFind albums by this artist and pianist / composer Joachim KuhnFind albums by this artist. The quintet includes also German vibraphonist Karl BergerFind albums by this artist, French bassist Bernard GuerinFind albums by this artist and Italian drummer Aldo RomanoFind albums by this artist. The instrumentation mimics the classic lineup of the Benny GoodmanFind albums by this artist quintet, but the music is of course from another musical sphere. The album was conceived and produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, and was the first recording by the Kuhn Brothers following their unification in West Germany, but their third album overall, following the no less legendary “SolariusFind albums with this title” album recorded in 1964 and released in DDR on the AmigaFind albums on this label label and the “Re-Union In BerlinFind albums with this title” album recorded in 1965 and released in West Germany on the CBSFind albums on this label label. The album presents four tracks, three composed by Joachim Kuhn, and one co-composed by both brothers. The album is an outstanding example of early European Free Jazz / Improvised Music, of the absolutely highest standard and imagination, which took the seeds of American Free Jazz of the period and took them to another plane, way more sophisticated, Artistic and imaginative. The performances are blood-chilling and absolutely unique, in many ways probably exposing the very peak of the Jazz creativity, which to be honest never managed to climb much higher than what can be heard here. Although Joachim Kuhn is the focal figure of this album, and the music itself, Rolf Kuhn is for me the true hero of this session, considering the fact that he is deeply rooted in American Swing and Mainstream, playing in the US for many years, and yet manged to detach himself from that tradition in such a radical way, which is way more difficult than plunging into Improvising Music straight on, like his younger brother. Rolf’s death almost two years ago (2022) was a huge personal loss for me, since we have been Friends for so many years and I truly admired his talent and wisdom. Overall, this is one of the most pivotal Jazz albums in European Jazz, despite the fact that it is only known by relatively very few Jazz listeners. I have owned a copy since day one and listened to this album countless times in the almost sixty years since it was released, and each and every time I managed to discover something new in the music. I can only hope some more listeners will discover it one day, although admittedly it is quite difficult to find a copy. Side Note The legendary German MPSFind albums on this label (Musik Produktion Schwarzwald) label, founded by Hans Georg Brunner-SchwerFind albums by this artist (HGBS) in 1963, first as SABAFind albums on this label Records and later on from 1968 as MPS Records, was the most important independent European record label, which had an enormous contribution to the development of European Jazz. For many years MPS cooperated with the legendary German producer / author Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist, my Friend and Mentor, whose visionary approach and open-mindedness brought the crème de la crème of the Jazz (in the broadest meaning of the word) musicians from all over the world to the label. Between 1963 and 1983 MPS produced about five hundred albums, many of which are among the most important Jazz recordings on this planet. In 1983 the MPS catalog was sold to UniversalFind albums on this label, which sadly resulted in all those artistic treasures to almost disappear from the face of the earth – a situation not only tragic but culturally criminal. Universal reissued a part of the MPS albums (probably 128 titles) on CD between 1999 and 2011 under the "Most Perfect Sound Edition" moniker. Since 2008 the German Promising MusicFind albums on this label label released some of the MPS recordings, but at a very slow pace. In 2014 the German company Edel AG bought the MPS catalogue from Universal and released a series of 25 MPS albums on CD with a new slipcase graphic design, which brought all those excellent albums back to life. In 2015 Edel AG started to record and release new albums under the MPS moniker. In 2016 Edel AG released a series of 10 classic MPS albums on CD, which were beautifully remastered and re-packaged, presenting the original artwork and liner notes, as well as new liner notes and photographs. An obvious labor of love, these reissues are what the MPS catalogue truly deserves. This project was continued in 2017 with another series of 10 classic MPS albums released on CD. In later years some new reissues were released sporadically. Over the years many SABA / MPS albums were reissued in Japan, which is often the only available source for these albums today, but that is a story in itself.

Updated: 08/07/2024Posted: 24/06/2024

CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend