Record Reviews
40 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | BARTZ, GARY ~ EPISODE ONE CHILDREN OF HARLEM
CHALLENGE 70001 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Bartz in one of the greatest post-Coltrane saxophone players with exceptinal technigue and improvisational skills. Here in a quartet format (his favorite) with great support from Larry Willis - piano, Buster Williams - bass and Ben Riley - drums, he displays his usual abilities with flare and passion.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CITROEN, SOESJA ~ HERE AND NOW
CHALLENGE 70003 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Citroen is the `first lady` of Dutch jazz and one of the best European jazz vocalists. On this spelndid album she goes through the standard jazz songbook, accompanied by her brilliant trio and a young trumpet player on several tracks. Her interpretations are flawless and vibrant, irresistable and swinging. A must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOUDINI`S ~ HYBRID
CHALLENGE 70004 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Houdini`s are a Dutch sextet comprised of young but extremely talented jazz musicians. On this album they play mostly their own material and the performances are truly amazing. Every one of the players has tremendous command of his instrument and the music is both elegant and sophisticated - typical European jazz at its best.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AMUEDO, LEONARDO ~ DOLPHIN DANCE
CHALLENGE 70008 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Amuedo is a brilliant Dutch guitar player associated maily with the fusion genre, but this album is very different from his `normal` output. It is a very intimate guitar-bass duo with the great bass veteran Hein Van De Geyn. Although this music is very quiet and delicate, it is full of feeling and beauty. Great for rainy days.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | VAN`T HOF, JASPER ~ AT THE CONCERTGEBOUW-SOLO
CHALLENGE 70010 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993
Veteran Dutch pianist and composer Jasper van`t HofFind albums by this artist is one of the most famous European jazz personalities. This album is a live recording of his solo piano concert from 1993, where he plays mostly his original compositions and a couple of standards. Solo piano albums can be demanding, but for people who enjoy the beauty of the instrument, this is a real treat.
| | Updated: 05/02/2016Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC VLOEIMANS ~ FIRST FLOOR
CHALLENGE 70011 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1994
This is the debut album by young Dutch trumpeter Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist is one of the great stars on the European jazz sky and this. his first solo album, shows why. Exceptional technique and great improvisational ability are his forte and it`s a real pleasure to hear so much energy and joy in the music. This is a quartet recording with guitar, bass and drums as the rhythm section.
| | Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LOPRETTI, JOSE ~ CANDOMBE
CHALLENGE 70013 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: Candombe is the name of a rhythm that comes from Jose Lopretti´s native Uruguay, and it is among the Latin rhythms that the pianist/keyboardist/bassist employs on this Post-bop/fusion CD. However, it would be a mistake to think that candombe is the only Latin rhythm that excites Lopretti—on Candombe, the improviser also incorporates everything from Argentinean tango and Afro-Brazilian rhythms to the Andean music of Peru. The result is a rewarding, melodic and fairly unpredictable date that illustrates Lopretti´s talents as both an improviser and a composer. The South American, in fact, wrote all of the thoughtful compositions on this album, which ranges from the poetic "Florita" and the charming "Ciudad Vieja" to the Chick Corea-ish "Trigueñas".
| | Updated: 15/11/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SUDHALTER, DICK ~ AFTER AWHILE
CHALLENGE 70014 ~ USA ~ Jazz
American trumpeter Dick Sudhalter is considered to be the one of best traditional jazz players around, keeping the `trad` movement alive and kicking. Here in a great recording with the top British `trad` players, the music swings and burns all the way through. Sudhalter is also a scholar and discographer, and his writings about `trad` jazz are top notch.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WILLCOX, SPIEGLE ~ JAZZ KEEPS YOU YOUNG
CHALLENGE 70015 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Considering the fact that Willcox was 91 years old when this recording was made in 1994, the title seems more then appropriate. With excellent arrangements and the trombonist in great shape regardless of his age, this is one the best conteporary Dixieland jazz recordings of all times. If you like Dixie, this is a must!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BELMONDO QUINTET ~ FOR ALL FRIENDS
CHALLENGE 70016 ~ FRANCE ~ Jazz
AMG Review: The Belmondo brothers, trumpeter Stephane and saxophonist Lionel, proved to be two of the more creative and talented French jazz musicians of the 1990s. Joined by pianist Henri Florens, bassist Thomas Bramerie, and drummer Jean-Pierre Arnaud, the siblings perform nine group originals and "Darn That Dream". The music is primarily Post-bop, swinging but open to more modern influences. Both of the Belmondos have appealing and strong sounds in addition to fertile improvising skills, and they really dig into the originals. Jazz listeners wanting to explore some lesser-known but talented musicians would be well advised to check out this fine release.
| | Updated: 15/11/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BREUER, CAROLYN/CLAASSEN, FEE ~ SIMPLY BE
CHALLENGE 70017 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
These two young female Dutch jazz players co-lead this splendid quintet and their album is pure delight. Breuer is an excellent sax player and Claassen is by now established as one of the best European female jazz vocalist. Their unisono performances are breathtaking and the music flows and twists with flair and intelligence. Great original compositions and a few standards.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WILBER, BOB / BECHET LEGACY ~ LIVE AT THE VINEYARD
CHALLENGE 70018 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: After the breakup of Soprano Summit in the early ´80s, Bob Wilber formed a group dedicated to reviving the music of his teacher, Sidney Bechet. Wilber (who triples here on soprano, clarinet, and alto) is heard with his intimate quartet (which also includes trumpeter Randy Sandke, guitarist Mike Peters, and bassist John Goldsby) during a live performance on nine selections associated with Bechet. This CD (its contents were released for the first time in 1995) has plenty of passionate and heated swing, with the high points including "Down in HonkyTonk Town," "Promenade aux Champs-Elysees," "China Boy," and "Lady Be Good." Quite enjoyable.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DAVERN, KENNY / WELLSTOOD, DICK ~ NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS
CHALLENGE 70019 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: Davern and Wellstood were never innovative, but they were always great at what they did. On a few occasions, one of the improvisers will lay out and give the other a chance to play by himself. That would be risky for lesser musicians, but for players of Davern and Wellstood´s caliber, being occasionally unaccompanied is a good thing. Davern is triumphant when he delivers an unaccompanied clarinet solo on Duke Ellington´s "Mood Indigo," and Wellstood is equally successful when he plays by himself on a six-minute Ellington medley that unites "The Mooche" with "Birmingham Breakdown." But most of the time, Davern and Wellstood play together on this fine Dutch release.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BUCKY PIZZARELLI / JOHN, PIZZARELLI ~ LIVE AT THE VINEYARD THEATRE
CHALLENGE 70025 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: This 1987 concert at New York´s Vineyard Theatre pairs two fine guitarists, Bucky PizzarelliFind albums by this artist and his equally talented son, John PizzarelliFind albums by this artist. The two players fit effortlessly hand in glove, no matter who is soloing at a given time, as they work their way through classic standards ("Three Little Words"), jazz classics ("Do Nothin´ Till You Hear From Me"), pop favorites ("Route 66"), and creative medleys (such as the combination of the famous movement from Rodrigo´s "Guitar Concerto" with Chick CoreaFind albums by this artist´s "Spain"). John Pizzarelli also adds warm vocals to several tracks. Concert and recording producer Richard SudhalterFind albums by this artist also contributed the enlightening liner notes, most of which is a transcript of a compilation of interviews done with both musicians at the time of the performance and some eight years later. With the CD cover declaring it to be a limited edition, it is well worth making a high-priority purchase.
| | Updated: 11/06/2022Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BROOKMEYER, BOB/NEW QUARTET ~ PARIS SUITE
CHALLENGE 70026 ~ USA ~ Jazz
The veteran trombone master Brookmeyer teams up with three extremely talented young European musicians to form this quartet. They play all original music composed especially for this album, which is beautiful and very complex, but still very accesible. All the instrumentalist shine when soloing and the virtuosity is astounding.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HOUDINI`S ~ PLAY THE BIG FIVE
CHALLENGE 70027 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
`The Big Five` in this case are the 5 most prolific composers of jazz standards (Berlin, Gershwin, Kern, Porter & Rodgers), which means that this album is all jazz standards but with a `twist`. These wonderful arrangements and elegant performance make it a delight at every hearing. A true gem.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | VACHE, WARREN ~ LIVE AT THE VINEYARD
CHALLENGE 70028 ~ USA ~ Jazz
American trumpetter Warren Vache is among the most respected musicians on the scene. He plays mostly traditional / swing jazz and recorded numerous albums. Here caught in a trio with John Bunch on piano and Phil Flanigan on bass, he delivers some really hot swing licks in the tradition of the good old days.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LEA, BARBARA / INGHAM, KEITH ~ FINE AND DANDY
CHALLENGE 70029 ~ USA ~ Jazz
American singer Barbara Lea is a celebrated legend in the traditional jazz circles and her career goes back into the 1950s. On this wonderful album, accompnied only by the great lyrical pianist Keith Ingham, she pays tribute to the Women Songwriters - all the tunes were either composed or have lyrics written by women, which makes this album so special.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BORSTLAP, MICHIEL ~ THE SEXTET LIVE
CHALLENGE 70030 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Borstlap is an extremely talented youg Dutch pianist and composer and this live recording of his sextet, which includes the cream of the young Dutch jazz players is a great showcase for his tallents. This is modern jazz at its best - complex and passionate, with wonderful improvisations and telepathic interplays. The sextet sounds like a big band at times. Excellent stuff!
| | | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RUMBATA ~ ENEUENTROS
CHALLENGE 70032 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Rumbata are an international group led by Columbian percussionist Jaime Rodriguez and including musicians from Panama, Argentina, Venezuela, USA and Holland. They play a great mixture of Southern American Salsa Jazz with mostly up-tempo numbers that make you get up and dance - you just can`t help it!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | DE GRAAF, DICK / LAKATOS, TONY ~ NEW YORK STRAIGHT AHEAD
CHALLENGE 70033 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Dutch saxophonist Dick De Graaf is one of the most respected jazz players in Europe and his numerous recordings are all excellent. This album, recored in the US (with the great Billy Hart on drums) brings him together with another great European saxophonist - Tony Lakatos. The two player exchange licks and complement each other, creating some truly exciting modern jazz.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC VLOEIMANS ~ BESTIARIUM
CHALLENGE 70038 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1996 Released: 1996
This is the second album by Dutch trumpeter Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist, who is already an established jazz star in Europe with his outstanding abilities as a player and composer to his credit. On this album his Quartet is transformed into a Quintet with the addition of the famous German saxophonist Peter WenigerFind albums by this artist. All music on this album is original by Vloeimans and the performances brilliant all the way.
| | Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BASELINE ~ RETURNS
CHALLENGE 70047 ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Baseline are an ensemble led by the legendary Dutch bass player Hein Van de Geyn. On this album he is joined by guitarist John Abercrombie, drummer Joe LaBarbera and clarinetist John Ruocco. Together they perform original compositions by de Geyn, all played with gusto and ellegance.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC VLOEIMANS ~ BITCHES AND FAIRY TALES
CHALLENGE 70061 (Barcode: 608917006124) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2010
This is the third album as a leader by Dutch trumpeter / composer Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist recorded with the dreamy trio comprising of British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and American bassist Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist, which recorded the great album "RosslynFind albums with this title" for ECMFind albums on this label a few years later. The album presents thirteen original compositions, ten composed by Vloeimans and three short interludes co-composed by him and Taylor.
The music is brilliant modern European Jazz, based on open compositions, which allow the quartet to improvise intensively, at times quite freely, and to utilize polyrhythmic structures, which the rhythm section wizardly carries on. The music is diverse and highly interesting from start to finish, and in retrospect this is one of the most interesting European Jazz recordings of the 1990s.
Vloeimans and Taylor manage to create a superb synergy, which also characterized the work of Taylor with Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, and Vloeimans´ trumpet playing bears many similarities to the idiosyncratic style of Wheeler.
Interestingly the American rhythm section displays completely non-American aesthetics, which sets it apart from most rhythm sections originating in the US, and which enables the sublime musical atmosphere created on this album, ideally suited to the two Europeans on board. Of course they are not the only example of American rhythm sections free of the decades-long clichés cemented by Bebop, but they are certainly a most welcome exception.
This music lost absolutely nothing of its power and originality over time and still sounds as interesting and fresh as it did at the time it was recorded. Taylor´s enthusiasts will wind his work here as brilliant as ever and since the album seems to be still available, it´s about time to grab a copy – satisfaction guaranteed!
| | Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: 02/10/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ERIC VLOEIMANS ~ UMAI
CHALLENGE 70087 (Barcode: 608917008722) ~ NETHERLANDS ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2000
This is the fourth album by Dutch trumpeter / composer Eric VloeimansFind albums by this artist recorded in a quartet setting with British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist, Italian bassist Furio Di CastriFind albums by this artist and American drummer Joe LaBarberaFind albums by this artist. It is his second recording with Taylor following the "Bitches And Fairy TalesFind albums with this title" album recorded a couple of years earlier. The album presents thirteen tracks, nine of which are original compositions by Vloeimans.
The music is typical modern European Jazz, based on excellent compositions, which are melody driven but open enough to allow intensive interplay between the quartet members and extensive improvisations. The individual compositions present a diverse palette demanding serious listening involvement, but are aesthetically rewarding and interesting.
The four musicians are highly regarded instrumentalists, which of course is plainly obvious from the very first notes. Vloeimans takes most of the soloing duties upon himself, with Taylor staying relatively in the background, with only occasional soloing, but his beautiful piano accompaniment parts are an integral part of the entire musical fabric. The rhythm section is fully involved in the interplay and both Di Castri and LaBarbera solo occasionally, showing their respective chops.
At times the music bring fond memories of the music made by Taylor with his friend and long time collaborator Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, which of course is a feast to the listeners´ ears.
Overall this is an excellent modern Jazz album, full of great music and excellent performances, which should keep any connoisseur of European Jazz happy and although recorded some twenty years ago, still sounds great today!
| | Updated: 02/10/2020Posted: 31/08/2020 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COPLAND / ABERCROMBIE / WHEELER ~ THAT`S FOR SURE
CHALLENGE 70098 (Barcode: 608917009828) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2000 Released: 2001
This is the debut album by the trio comprising of American pianist / composer Marc CoplandFind albums by this artist, American guitarist / composer John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tunes, eight of which are original compositions: two by Copland and three each by Abercrombie and Wheeler, and one is a standard.
The music is all quite conventional mainstream Jazz, mostly very melodic and low key, but of course all three participants are Masters of their trade, both as composers and players, so there is no shortage of great music here.
The intimacy and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of the entire session is the key, which allows the musicians to toy with their ideas and play as much for each other as for the sake of the recording.
Abercrombie fans will find here some of the most melancholic guitar playing of his entire career, which of course is both surprising and delightful. Wheeler´s trumpet and flugelhorn are also at their absolute best, as he was at the absolute peak of his career at the time this music was recorded. Copland seems to be the quiet romantic here plying relatively few solo parts, but keeping the music together harmonically.
Overall this is a delightful album, which showcases three mature Masters at the peak of their creative years, playing superbly together. No big surprises here, but who needs surprises when everything works out just perfectly. The trio recorded another album together four years later, which is very similar to this one and is also certainly worth being discovered. For the Wheeler fans and connoisseurs, this is an absolute must in their collection!
| | Updated: 04/04/2019Posted: 04/04/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | COPLAND / ABERCROMBIE / WHEELER ~ BRAND NEW
CHALLENGE 70122 (Barcode: 608917012224) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2004 Released: 2004
This is the second (and last) album by the trio comprising of American pianist / composer Marc CoplandFind albums by this artist, American guitarist / composer John AbercrombieFind albums by this artist and legendary British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tunes, seven of which are original compositions: two each by Copland and Wheeler and three by Abercrombie, and two are standards.
This album continues the concept established on the debut album with the three Master musicians performing intimate interpretations of their compositions and standards, all of which are kept within the melodic mainstream idiom. The music is mostly delicate and lyrical, presenting the gentle side of these three illustrious musicians.
The performances are of course wonderful from start to finish, as expected under these circumstances. Again this album exposes some of the most subtle and fragile guitar playing by Abercrombie, which should be a delightful discovery for his fans. Wheeler is also as brilliant as one might expect with every note perfectly articulated and the wonderful feel for melody present at all times. Copland keeps the music together, making a great job at it, especially in view of the absence of a rhythm section.
The interplay and mutual respect these musicians demonstrate on this album is of the highest standard and the music breathes aesthetics and superb aptitude all along the way.
Overall this is another superb album by the trio and a perfect companion to the debut, both of which deserve a place in any serious Jazz record collection. For Wheeler fans this is of course an absolute must!
| | Updated: 26/04/2019Posted: 26/04/2019 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LEE KONITZ / KENNY WHEELER ~ OLDEN TIMES – LIVE AT BIRDLAND NEUBURG
CHALLENGE 71146 (Barcode: 608917114621) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1999 Released: 2016
This is a reissue / remaster of a live album by the quartet co-led by American saxophonist / composer Lee KonitzFind albums by this artist and British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, with a German rhythm section comprising of pianist Frank WunschFind albums by this artist and bassist Gunnar PlumerFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks (one of which is a bonus on this new edition), three of which are composed by Konitz, four by Wheeler, two by Wunsch and one by Plumer. The album offers a beautiful sound quality and ambience.
The music is all highly melodic mainstream Jazz, superbly performed by these great musicians. The absence of drums aids the gentle, intimate atmosphere, and shifts the responsibility of keeping time to the bassist, who stands up to the challenge formidably.
The interplay between Konitz and Wheeler is simply marvelous, both being lost romantics and highly sensitive songweavers, which results in truly heartwarming music. Although this is one of the least known albums in Wheeler’s discography, it is one of most wonderful examples of his sublime trumpet / flugelhorn work, and is a must to all his many followers. Konitz also plays as sweetly and seductively as he is able, and together they are simply irresistible.
Overall, this is a wonderful piece of music, seemingly unpretentious and subdued, but full of artistry and elegance, which is only rarely achieved to such degree. In short, this is an absolute must for true Jazz lovers and an indispensable piece for all Wheeler collectors!
| | Updated: 14/12/2024Posted: 14/12/2024 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NAK TRIO ~ THE OTHER SIDE OF IT
CHALLENGE 71154 (Barcode: 608917115420) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2015
This is the debut album by the Polish Jazz NAK TrioFind albums by this artist, led by drummer Jacek KochanFind albums by this artist, with pianist Dominik WaniaFind albums by this artist and bassist Michal KapczukFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions, all composed by the leader.
The music is a beautiful example of modern European Jazz, superbly performed by the trio. It showcases the outstanding virtuosity of Wania, although this is a relatively early recording in his impressive career. Wania played in Kochan’s groups since 2008, which undoubtedly served as a great environment to perfect his skills. By the time this album was recorded Wania was already in full bloom, which is plainly evident herein.
Kochan is a great example of my observation, that Jazz drummers are often some of the most impressive composers, and his extensive recorded legacy is an undeniable proof of that. He is able to combine beautiful melody lines and complex rhythmic layers, which makes his often intricate music flow smoothly and convincingly. He is certainly one of my favorite Polish Jazz composers.
Overall, modern Jazz piano trio albums don’t get any better that this, and although this album is relatively obscure to Polish Jazz lovers, it definitely deserves to be heard and loved, and can be found relatively effortlessly. Of course I wholeheartedly recommend grabbing a copy ASAP.
| | Updated: 16/02/2025Posted: 16/02/2025 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | THOMAS KOLARCZYK ~ HALBTRAUME
CHALLENGE 71194 (Barcode: 608917119428) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2018
This is the debut album as a leader by Polish, resident in Berlin, Jazz bassist / composer Thomas KolarczykFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with clarinetist Viktor WolfFind albums by this artist, saxophonist / flautist Otto HirteFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Slawomir PezdaFind albums by this artist and drummer Kuba GudzFind albums by this artist. Kolarczyk and Gudz were members of the excellent Tone RawFind albums by this artist quartet, which recorded a superb single album back in 2012. The album presents nine compositions, seven of which are originals by Kolarczyk, one is by Gudz and one is an arrangement by Kolarczyk of a traditional tune.
The music is a wonderful modern European Jazz, mostly based on melodic themes, but very open to improvised passages and folkloristic, mostly Middle Eastern and Balkan influences. The quintet´s lineup, which features three woodwind instruments and a rhythm section and no harmonic instrument, creates w beautifully transparent sound with each and every note perfectly audible. The music reflects perfectly the European Jazz esthetics, which has grown infinitely beyond the American Jazz tradition over time, preserving the basic convention of improvisation, but expanding the barriers of the musical possibilities and amalgamating European values and World traditions, revitalizing and constantly pushing the idiom further into the unknown.
The individual performances are all stellar and the album is a constant source of amazement and discovery. The unique and daring music making presented herein is way beyond what one can find on "standard" Jazz recordings, and reflects the specifics of the new, Berlin based Jazz school, which managed in the last decade or so to build a Jazz sub-culture, which is reflected by numerous recordings made by Berlin based musicians, producing definitely some of the most interesting contemporary European Jazz.
The sublime balance between melody and Free Form, straight time and no time, soloing and group improvisation are all present on this album, and add up to an irresistible sonic and intellectual experience, which has but a few equals. As such it is a must have for all modern European Jazz connoisseurs, who are open-minded and embracing enough to face and enjoy the challenge.
Overall this is a tremendous debut album, which marks a giant step in the leaders career and hopefully will be followed by many more recordings, as music of such beauty and sophistication is always a revelation. Stunning stuff!
| | Updated: 27/06/2018Posted: 27/04/2018 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | FLYING CAKES ~ 19 WAYS TO RAIN
CHALLENGE 71357 (Barcode: 608917135725) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2019
This is the debut album by Berlin based quartet Flying CakesFind albums by this artist, led by pianist / composer Benjamin GeyerFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Nils WrasseFind albums by this artist, Polish bassist Thomas KolarczykFind albums by this artist and drummer Philip DornbuschFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven original compositions, ten by Geyer and one co-credited to all the quartet members.
The music is all melody based modern European Jazz, full of lyricism and melancholy, sounding somewhat similar to Nordic Jazz climates at times. The tunes are well structured and flow gently on a rather dynamically uneventful plane. Wrasse and Geyer solo on each of the tunes, offering a limited emotional scope, which results in due course in a rather monotonous sameness. The rhythm section keeps the time in a straightforward manner without any surprising ventures. Kolarczyk plays some interesting arco parts, but mostly just sticks to the routine.
Overall this album offers a collection of solid melodic tunes, which are all within a rather narrow emotional frame, and which are performed rather reservedly, although amicably, by the quartet. Not a very exciting listening experience as such, although showing potential.
| | Updated: 05/01/2020Posted: 05/01/2020 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | WINDISCH TRIO ~ PROS & CONS
CHALLENGE 71389 (Barcode: 608917138924) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is the debut album by the Windisch TrioFind albums by this artist led by young German pianist / composer Julius WindischFind albums by this artist and also including Italian bassist Igor SpallatiFind albums by this artist and Argentinean drummer Fermin MerloFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine original compositions, all by the leader.
The music is brilliant modern Jazz, which takes the classic piano trio format to completely contemporary and even innovative platform, producing a sophisticated amalgam of melodic themes with highly individual soloing by the trio members. In contrast to the established piano trio concept of piano / rhythm section balance, but trio offers a unity of three individuals improvising concurrently, with no obvious leader, each of the instruments playing at times as if it existed only in its own world, but amazingly sounding overall as a perfectly synchronized ensemble. The result is pretty stunning, especially to conventional Jazz listeners, who might, at least during the initial listening, experience a slight dizziness / confusion, which hopefully should transform into pure amazement and aesthetic joy.
Despite the external appearance of being mostly Freely improvised, the music does have a perfectly coherent structure and modus operandi, which perhaps needs some time to get used to, but the initial effort leads to a most rewarding satisfaction. The concept works only thanks to the perfectly combined talents of these instrumentalists, which for the entire duration of the album stand shoulder to shoulder with their partners. There is intentionally no leader as such in this music, despite the fact that the piano is able to play vivid notes, as this music would lose its meaning without any of the instrumental ingredient missing in any given time.
I must admit that this album made a much stronger impression on me than expected and so far it definitely is the most exciting new album that landed on my desk this year. I have yet to hear the quartet album Windisch recorded a while back, but if it is as good as this one, he is certainly one of the bright young European musicians worth following closely. He certainly is a proud representative of the burgeoning Berlin Jazz scene, that returned to its former glory of decades ago, now in the hands of the new generation.
Anybody interested in contemporary European Jazz at its best should grab a copy of this gem immediately and don’t forget who told you about it :) Kudos to these young Lions! And no, there are co Cons whatsoever herein…
| | Updated: 11/08/2021Posted: 11/08/2021 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | KNUDSEN / RUDZINSKIS SPACE BIG BAND ~ SPACE BIG BAND
CHALLENGE 71393 (Barcode: 608917139327) ~ DENMARK ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021
This is the debut album by the Berlin based Jazz Big Band called Space Big BandFind albums by this artist, co-led by Danish bassist / composer Kenneth Dahl KnudsenFind albums by this artist and Latvian saxophonist / composer Toms RudzinskisFind albums by this artist. The band comprises of eighteen musicians from Eastern and Western Europe. The album presents ten tracks with original compositions, five each by both co-leaders.
The music is Modern European Mainstream Jazz, with melodic ties but a lot of freedom for the soloists and complex rhythmic meters, which creates a fascinating listening experience. The sound is very up-to-date, pretty far from the American Big Band tradition, with somewhat Fusiony orientation emphasized by the electric guitar soloing and dominating drumming, but the music keeps shifting constantly, changing its facets often dramatically.
The brass arrangements are pretty atypical, creating a very specific ambience, again far apart from the traditional Big Band approach, which makes listening to this album especially interesting, since nothing is predictable. The compositions offer a wide palette of moods and colors, all falling into a coherent continuum.
I have been following Knudsen since his arrival on the European Jazz scene and watching his development as a musician, composer and leader is an example of the incredible talents of the new generation of European Jazz musicians and a great hope for the future of Jazz.
Overall this is a very interesting Big Band Jazz recording, quite different from what one expects to happen within that idiom, with examples of new approach to tonality, arrangement and composition. It might require more than one listening session to get into this music, but patience will be rewarded by deep aesthetic satisfaction.
| | Updated: 16/12/2021Posted: 16/12/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MARKUS BURGER / JAN VON KLEWITZ ~ ACCIDENTAL TOURISTS
CHALLENGE 73403 (Barcode: 608917340327) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 2015
This is an album by German pianist / composer Markus BurgerFind albums by this artist and saxophonist / composer Jan von KlewitzFind albums by this artist, which is a lovely tribute to the legendary British trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, who also takes part in this project, as does British vocalist Norma WinstoneFind albums by this artist, German trombonist Stefan LottermannFind albums by this artist, bassist Martin GjakonovskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Felix AstorFind albums by this artist. The album was recorded live and remained unreleased for twenty two years, to be finally released following the lamented passing of Wheeler. The album presents eight original compositions, four each by Burger and von Klewitz, arranged as series of five movements and three codas.
The music is quintessential modern European Jazz, which floats between Free Form and more organized / melodic moments, all beautifully performed by the German / British septet. Despite the rather busy setting the music is full of breathing space and offers some spectacular collective improvisations, which are wonderfully ornamented by Winstone´s stunning vocal parts.
The album also presents some relaxed, melodic passages, with Winstone singing lyrics, (which she most probably wrote although the album´s liner notes don´t mention this explicitly). The entire eight part suite flows naturally and coherently and offers a fertile ground for the superb soloing by all participants, as well as collective contributions. Wheeler performs several stellar solos, which are pure mastership.
Overall this is a highly exciting musical journey and a superb document of the talents of the two composers as much as the spectacular abilities of Wheeler and Winstone. Considering the fact that this music was being hidden in the vault for so long, it is a great pleasure to be able to listen to it, better late than never.
The album suffers from imperfect sound quality at times, but this recording was never actually meant to be released commercially, and of course in view of the importance of this document, the sound quality issue becomes secondary. For the many Wheeler / Winstone enthusiasts, this is a must have of course, so spread the word and grab it as long as it is available. Highly recommended!
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 27/06/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | TUBIS TRIO ~ THE TRUTH
CHALLENGE 73445 (Barcode: 608917344523) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2017
This is the second album by Polish Jazz piano trio (Tubis TrioFind albums by this artist) led by pianist / composer Maciej TubisFind albums by this artist, with bassist Pawel PuszczaloFind albums by this artist, who replaced the original bassist Marcin LamchFind albums by this artist, and drummer Przemyslaw PacanFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten original compositions, all by Tubis. The album was recorded at the excellent RecPublica Studios in Poland, and presents a superb sonic quality with a somewhat unusual timbre and was released by the prestigious Dutch ChallengeFind albums on this label Records label. This album follows the debut album "Live In LuxembourgFind albums with this title", which was recorded nine and released seven years earlier, and which achieved some international acclaim.
The music is in fact only partly directly connected with the Jazz idiom, and belongs to the modern European instrumental music variety, which is strongly based on deeply melodic themes and lengthy lyrical, somewhat introvert improvisations, which use typical European harmonic approach, creating a manner similar to many other contemporary pianists, who record for the ECMFind albums on this label, ACTFind albums on this label and related labels. In most cases the compositions are slow and melancholic, with just a few of the album´s tracks using an up tempo pace.
The music is dominated by the piano parts and the rhythm section has limited opportunity to show off, but supports the leader very solidly and amicably. The bass provides the bottom notes all the way and its pulsations are vital to this music. The drums provide a steady rhythmic support, which suits this music perfectly. The instrumental performances are of course first class from start to finish.
Overall this is an excellent example of contemporary instrumental music, which is accessible to a wide audience without making any compromises as far as the music quality is concerned. This Polish trio proves again that Poland is a reliable source of great European music, which is on par with anything being created beyond its borders, usually quite ahead of the pack.
This is definitely a welcome comeback, which hopefully will not be followed by another long term of silence.
| | Updated: 27/06/2018Posted: 11/09/2017 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | COHERENCE QUARTET ~ SAGAYE
CHALLENGE 73457 (Barcode: 608917345728) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2017 - 2018 Released: 2018
This is the second album by the Polish Jazz Coherence QuartetFind albums by this artist, which comprises of saxophonist Lukasz KluczniakFind albums by this artist, pianist Robert JarmuzekFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcin LamchFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz MaslowskiFind albums by this artist. The album presents six original compositions, two each by Jarmuzek and Kluczniak, one by Lamch and one co-composed by Kluczniak and Lamch.
According to the album´s liner notes, the music was recorded in the bassist´s living room, using just a very basic miking setup, which worked out splendidly with the sonic result being just spectacular. The album was released on the Dutch ChallengeFind albums on this label Records label, which seems to have discovered the young Polish Jazz scene as of late.
The music is all within the European Jazz mainstream, strictly melodic and "well behaved", mostly relaxed, contemplative and melancholic, but certainly very aesthetic and interesting. Each of the compositions is splendidly developed by the quartet and offers excellent soloing by all participants and great ensemble playing as well.
To quote the liner notes again, the quartet failed to come up with a satisfactory result in their attempts to record the second album for quite a while, and the homey atmosphere and intimate interplay that these home sessions offer turned out to be the catalyst, which added the missing ingredient.
Overall this album offers superb contemporary European Jazz mainstream, beautifully composed and perfectly executed, which offers the listener a pleasant, but far from trivial listening experience, which keeps him on his toes. Since I am not familiar with the debut recording, it is impossible for me to compare this album to its predecessor, but from what I have read about it, the quartet certainly managed to fulfill the high hopes the debut album delivered.
For the many young Polish Jazz followers, this album is exactly what they expect to hear – great music, first class playing and that specific "Polish" resonance, which is instantly recognizable. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 27/06/2018Posted: 18/06/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | MATEUSZ SOBIECHOWSKI ~ VITAL MUSIC
CHALLENGE 73461 (Barcode: 608917346121) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2016 Released: 2018
This is the debut album by young Polish Jazz quintet led by pianist / composer Mateusz SobiechowskiFind albums by this artist with saxophonist Marcin KaletkaFind albums by this artist, guitarist Szymon MikaFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam TadelFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz PalkaFind albums by this artist, all representatives of the excellent young Polish Jazz generation. The album presents nine pieces, eight of which are original compositions by Sobiechowski and one is a standard. The album was released by the prestigious Dutch label ChallengeFind albums on this label Records, which recently entered the Polish Jazz realm. The recording was engineered my Maciej StachFind albums by this artist and offers a superb sound quality.
The music is typical contemporary Polish / European mainstream Jazz, based on excellent compositions and performed with elegance and passion. Most of the themes are low key, full of characteristic Polish melancholy, which seems to be omnipresent on the majority of Polish Jazz recordings. The compositions are excellently structured, diverse and interesting enough to produce a fascinating continuity which keeps the listener on his toes.
The performances are also top notch, obviously highly professional, but more importantly heartfelt, artistically inclined and highly aesthetic. All three front line players offer excellent soloing and the rhythm section does a perfect job all the way through, being supportive but not obtrusive. Personally I find the contributions by Mika to be slightly more focused and inspired than those of his peers, but that said, and as already stated, everybody plays splendidly. Sobiechowski solos relatively sparingly for a leader, which is much respected, as it contributes to the overall quintet´s team spirit and creates a coherent ensemble statement.
Overall this is a very impressive debut, which offers both superb compositions and elegant execution, which would not shame veteran Jazz musicians anywhere on this planet. It is another manifestation of the strength of the Polish Jazz scene and its continuous development, which is now being recognized beyond the country´s borders. Warmly recommended to Jazz connoisseurs the world over!
| | Updated: 17/10/2018Posted: 17/10/2018 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
  | KLARA CLOUD & THE VULTURES ~ VAUNA
CHALLENGE 73476 (Barcode: 608917347623) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 2017 Released: 2019
This is the debut album by young Polish Jazz ensemble Klara Cloud & The VulturesFind albums by this artist which comprises of vocalist Sylwia Klara ZasempaFind albums by this artist, violinist Bartosz DworakFind albums by this artist, pianist Mateusz GawedaFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam TadelFind albums by this artist and drummers Piotr BudniakFind albums by this artist and Sebastian KuchczynskiFind albums by this artist. Legendary guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents ten tracks, eight of which are original compositions mostly by Zasempa and some created with the help of the entire ensemble (the two instrumental tracks) and finally two are traditional. Most of the lyrics are also by Zasempa. The subject matter of the album refers to Nature, wildlife and harmonious coexistence. The music was recorded at the excellent Monochrom Studio and engineered by Ignacy GruszeckiFind albums by this artist, with the usual superb sound quality.
The music offers a fascinating concept, combing Jazz-World Music Fusion with Free Jazz, which is quite striking. Although Polish Jazz often sources Slavic music, typical Polish melancholy and Polish Folklore, amalgamating it usually with original mainstream Jazz, but rather rarely so with more adventurous forms, which makes this music immediately outstanding. This does not mean that the music loses contact with melody per se, but the improvisations offer a wide range of freedom, both rhythmically and harmonically, which are not usually found within the Jazz-World Fusion idiom.
Dworak and Gaweda, who are amongst the most celebrated young Polish Jazz players, have plenty of opportunity to show their chops on this album, standing up to the expectations in full. The reinforced rhythm section, with the polyrhythmic double drums (in stereo) and solid bass pulsations, pushes the music steadily forward and serves as an anchor for the listener to keep his bearings. The guitar solo by Anthimos on the final track is simply divine.
Of course the vocals are the epicenter of this music and Zasempa stands up to the challenge with flying colors. She keeps to the basics, avoiding unnecessary theatrics and meanderings, and invests directly in the delivery of the lyrics, often improvising in the process. She does not use vocalese extensively, preferring to "play with the words" rather than with the sounds, but when she does, it works perfectly and hopefully will be used more in future projects. Zasempa is a "total" musician, being obviously the leader, the composer, the lyricist and the main soloist – Woman power incarnate.
Overall this is a beautiful piece of music, excellently put together and executed, original, ambitious and intelligent. Definitely one of the most interesting Polish Jazz releases of 2019. It is also the fifth album by young Polish Jazz musicians to be released on the prestigious Dutch Challenge label, which proves that this music is being recognized beyond the local market and steadily captures the position it truly deserves. Well done Lady and Gentlemen!
| | Updated: 10/11/2019Posted: 10/11/2019 | CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend |
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