Record Reviews

KENNY WHEELER / BRIAN DICKINSON ~ STILL WATERS DODICILUNE 213 ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 1998 Released: 1998 This is an album by the duo comprising of British (Canadian born) trumpeter / composer Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and Canadian pianist / composer Brian DickinsonFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, all of which are original compositions, five by Wheeler and four by Dickenson. The music is a marvelous collection of beautiful melodic themes, brilliantly performed by the duo, with plenty of space, which allows for extensive soloing by both musicians. Most of material is deeply lyrical and melancholic, which fits both players perfectly. The intimate duo format is an ideal setting for this material and lacks absolutely nothing, which might have enhanced it. For the many Wheeler fans, this criminally little know album is an absolute revelation in every sense, as it perfectly reflects his gentle character and outstanding virtuosity as a trumpeter, with his unique sound and aesthetic approach of unparalleled exquisiteness. Dickinson proves to be a perfect partner in crime on this recording, with his tender and fluid accompaniment, as well as the creator of the entire melodic / harmonic background layer of this recording. The album is a perfect example of the “Art of the Duo” phenomenon. Overall, this is an absolute gem of an album, which is a must have item in any serious Wheeler collection. It was released both on the Canadian Hornblower RecordingsFind albums on this label and on the Italian DodiciluneFind albums on this label label, and is quite difficult to find, but worth every effort.

Updated: 07/07/2024Posted: 07/07/2024

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PIERLUIGI BALDUCCI ~ BLUE FROM HEAVEN DODICILUNE 303 (Barcode: 8033309693033) ~ ITALY ~ Jazz Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012 This is an album by Italian electric bassist / composer Pierluigi BalducciFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with American oboist / saxophonist Paul McCandlessFind albums by this artist, British pianist John TaylorFind albums by this artist and Italian drummer Michelle RabbiaFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, one of which is a bonus alternate take, all but two composed by Balducci and one each by Brad MehldauFind albums by this artist and Charlie HadenFind albums by this artist. The album was released by the excellent Italian DodiciluneFind albums on this label label, which is the home of many excellent albums. The music is a superb collection of mostly original compositions, brilliantly executed by the quartet of first class musicians. Balducci’s electric bass is given a lot of exposure, as appropriate for a leader / composer, and his playing is wonderfully melodic and round. McCandless is given most of the solo space, and he is the usual “Pied Piper of Hamelin”, weaving the endless oboe and soprano saxophone parts, like only he is able to. Tylor is, as always, heartbreakingly lyrical and provides sublime harmonic support and occasional brilliant solos. Rabbia keeps the proceeding rolling in a tight rhythmic frame. Together they are simply a blissful European Jazz experience. McCandless, although American, is an ideal partner here, as his approach to Music in general, and Jazz in particular, always was much more open and appreciative of European aesthetics, as well as World Music influences, making him a true Global artist. His work with Oregon and his extended recording legacy, which spans well over a hundred albums, earned him a universal respect among his musical peers. Overall, this is a wonderful album, full of beautiful lyrical music, with perfect harmonies and heartwrenching melodic themes, performed by some of the best musicians out there, and although probably completely unfamiliar to most Jazz listeners, is absolutely worth being discovered, which I wholeheartedly recommend of course.

Updated: 29/01/2025Posted: 29/01/2025

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