Record Reviews
27 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | WALDRON, MAL ~ BLACK GLORY
ENJA 2004 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: This CD reissues one of the first Enja recordings, a trio outing for pianist Mal Waldron, bassist Jimmy Woode and drummer Pierre Favre. Waldron has continued to evolve through the decades while keeping his basic sound. A master at using repetition and brooding chords, Waldron is in excellent form on five of his originals plus Woode´s brief "M.C," playing with a knowledge of the Avant-Garde but still connected to the Hard Bop tradition.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BRAND, DOLLAR ~ AFRICAN SPACE PROGRAM
ENJA 2032 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: Still known as Dollar Brand at the time of this recording, Abdullah Ibrahim had his first encounter with a large ensemble on African Space Program, and the results are quite successful. Despite a muddy sound quality, this is music built on infectious themes and played with verve by a fine cast of instrumentalists. The first part of "Tintiyana," entirely written, is redolent of Ellington and Mingus, all churning low tones and percussion. When the second portion begins, the mood turns celebratory with a striding, gospel-imbued theme supporting heroic solos from all involved. Several of the musicians on hand were generally involved with the Avant-Garde end of the jazz spectrum at the time, and their playing is full of bite and a risk-taking nature that greatly enlivens the proceedings. The companion piece, Jabulani-Easter Joy," is similarly structured, though here the theme bears a striking, if accidental, resemblance to the central melody of "Jesus Christ, Superstar" (!). The soloing is perhaps even more rambunctious than on "Tintiyana," and brings the album to a quite rousing conclusion. Among all the fine work, special mention should be made of the rhythm team of Cecil McBee and Roy Brooks who, along with the leader´s relentless and driving accompaniment, pace the ensemble beautifully and add their own superb solo statements.
| | Updated: 12/04/2019Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WESTON, RANDY ~ NUIT AFRICANE
ENJA 2086 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Piano solo recording by the legendary US musician, who was one of the pioneers that incorporated African and Caribean music into Jazz, creating a multi-cultural amalgam. Recorded in 1975 in Paris.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JOE HENDERSON ~ BARCELONA
ENJA 3037 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: Tremendous, frenzied trio date by tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, recently released with bassist Wayne Darling and drummer Ed Soph. After many years of obscurity, Henderson has become famous in the last few years. But the whirling lines, huge tone, and astonishing solos that he routinely offers on this album have been prized by jazz fans since the early ´60s.
| | Updated: 04/02/2016Posted: | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOODY SHAW ~ LOTUS FLOWER
ENJA 4018 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: This CD features one of trumpeter Woody Shaw´s finest groups, a quintet with trombonist Steve Turre, pianist Mulgrew Miller, bassist Stafford James, and drummer Tony Reedus. The five-song program has an original apiece by each of the musicians (other than Reedus) with two by the leader. Shaw was one of the great trumpeters of all time, as he shows on such advanced yet swinging numbers as "Eastern Joy Dance," "Rahsaan´s Run," and "Song of Songs." Virtually every Woody Shaw recording is well worth acquiring, including this one.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | JON HENDRICKS ~ CLOUDBURST
ENJA 4032 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: This live gig from Munich, Germany, partially fills the ten-year gap in Hendricks´ discography in the ´60s and ´70s with reprises of older material, some newer things, more than a dash of bossa nova, and plenty of ebullient spirits. Perhaps the solo versions of things like "Shiny Stockings" and "Cloudburst" don´t have the geyser-like pizzazz of the Lambert Hendricks and Ross versions. But Hendricks has his own humorous, jivey charm, and he swings quite agreeably with the trio of Larry Vuckovich (piano), Isla Eckinger (bass), and Kurt Bong. Despite the fact that his voice wasn´t too suited for ballad tempos on this given day, he need not apologize for a performance of "Here´s That Rainy Day" that is full of soulful feeling. Inevitably the high spot of mirth is Hendricks´s rendition of "Gimme That Wine," and he satirizes Clark Terry´s satire on the blues with his own "Jon´s Mumbles." The last third of the disc is taken up by two rare Hendricks excursions into the music of Brazilian composer Edu Lobo, "Arrastao" (better known in English as "For Me"), and, for CD buyers only, a nine-minute workout on "Reza."
1 last copy in stock!
| | | CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | ADAMS, GEORGE ~ MORE SIGHTINGS
ENJA 4084 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: The intense tenor saxophonist George Adams teams up with trumpeter Marvin "Hannibal" Peterson, guitarist John Schofield and an alert rhythm section (pianist Ron Burton, bassist Walter Schmocker and drummer Allen Nelson) during this 1984 concert to explore five originals by the three principals, plus the standard "Don´t Take Your Love From Me." The music has its strong moments, although nothing all that memorable occurs, except perhaps for Adams´ eccentric vocal on "I Could Really Go for You."
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | NANA SIMOPOULOS ~ STILL WATERS
ENJA 6010 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Partial reissue of Nana`s first album "Pandors`s Blues" with many bonus tracks. Of Greek origin, Nana is one of the most interesting US female guitarists. She incorporates many world music elements in her advanturous jazz, including those of her Greek ancestry. Musicians include Charle Haden and Billy Higgins.
| | | CD 1 Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | MORDY FERBER ~ ALL THE WAY TO SENDAI
ENJA 6030 (Barcode: 063757603023) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1990
This is the debut album as a leader by Israeli guitarist / composer Mordy FerberFind albums by this artist, recorded with a spectacular international lineup, which includes Japanese trumpeter Tiger OkoshiFind albums by this artist, American saxophonists Bob MintzerFind albums by this artist, keyboardists American Brad HatfieldFind albums by this artist and Swiss Matthias GohlFind albums by this artist, bassists Czech Miroslav VitousFind albums by this artist and French Gildas BocleFind albums by this artist, American drummer Marty RichardsFind albums by this artist and Brazilian percussionist / vocalist Nana VasconcelosFind albums by this artist. The album presents six tracks, all of which are original compositions by Ferber.
Ferber, born in 1958 near Haifa, was one of the many young Israeli musicians, who frequented my home while growing up and getting into Jazz, partly under my influence. By the end of the 1970s and in early 1980s Ferber became a most sought after Israeli session guitarists and took part in recording many legendary albums at the time. He left to study at Berklee, like many other Israeli Jazz musicians, and decided to stay in the US, visiting Israel occasionally.
The music floats between melodic contemporary Jazz and some more Fusion influenced pieces, all beautifully put together and performed by this highly talented team. His guitar performances are nothing short of stellar and the entire album is a great piece of delightful music, which sadly never achieved the proper attention on the US scene, which has always been flooded by way too many mediocre releases. He recorded several more albums but his output sadly does not reflect his great talent, which is a great pity.
Overall, this is a beautiful album, full of great music and spectacular playing, which is criminally little known both in Israel and on the global scene. Of course guitar enthusiasts should be primarily happy with this music. A great piece of personal nostalgia for me.
| | Updated: 11/08/2024Posted: 11/08/2024 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KLAUS KONIG ORCHESTRA ~ AT THE END OF THE UNIVERSE
ENJA 6078 (Barcode: 063757607823) ~ GERMANY ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1990 Released: 1991
This is the third album by German composer / conductor Klaus KonigFind albums by this artist, recorded live at the Berlin JazzFest with a large Orchestra comprising of many top European and some American Jazz musicians, including British Jazz trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, Russian (resident in Germany) pianist Simon NabatovFind albums by this artist, French clarinetist Louis SclavisFind albums by this artist, American saxophonist Jane Ira BloomFind albums by this artist and many more. The album presents eight tracks, all composed by Konig, which are parts of a suite, which as the title suggests, is dedicated to the British Sci-Fi writer Douglas AdamsFind albums by this artist.
Wheeler took part also in a recording of the fifth album by Konig, entitled “Time FragmentsFind albums with this title”. Since this is a large orchestral recording, Wheeler’s soloing is perhaps less prominent than on his small group recordings, but is especially important here, in view of Kenny’s love of large ensembles. Both albums seem to be available without much ado. This is one of Wheeler’s recordings, which remains almost completely obscure and does not appear in most of his discographies. I was very lucky to get it from Kenny’s private collection.
The music is an absolutely fascinating European Orchestral Jazz, which offers some melodic themes but the performance is full of very open / Free Form improvisations, which altogether offers a challenging, but highly rewarding listening experience and a great example of the European approach to Big Band music, which is diametrically opposed to the American Tradition. Konig certainly manages to combine the basic elements of the Jazz tradition with contemporary / almost Avant-Garde facets of the genre and the result is simply astounding. His work as a composer is certainly highly unconventional and deserves to be followed, as his recording legacy certainly proves.
Overall, this is an excellent modern Big Band / Orchestral Jazz album, performed by first class musicians, which is absolutely worth digging for, not only for the great contributions by Kenny Wheeler, but no less importantly for the splendid music and superb performances by the entire team.
| | Updated: 04/04/2023Posted: 02/04/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | TAKASE, AKI ~ CLOSE UP OF JAPAN
ENJA 7075 ~ JAPAN ~ Jazz
Superb album by Japanese female pianist Aki Takase, accompanied by bass player Nubuyoshi Ino and a string quartet. This unusual instrumentation creates an enchanted atmosphere in which Takase performs hher own compositiions and arrangements, in addition to 1 tune by Miles Davis, Charlie Haden and Astor Piazzolla.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | HARRIS, EDDIE / FUNK PROJECT ~ LISTEN HERE!
ENJA 7079 ~ USA ~ Jazz
US saxophonist Eddie Harris is one of the pioneers of Funk and his legendary recordings from 1960s already point in that direction. Excellent player, who alwas surrounds himself with other gifted musicians, usually from the younger generation. On this 1992 album he is supported by Ronald Muldrow an guitar, Ray Peterson on bass and Norman Fearrington on drums.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | YUMI ITO ~ YSLA
ENJA 7831 (Barcode: 767522783124) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2022 Released: 2023
This is the fifth album by Polish / Japanese (resident in Switzerland) singer / songwriter Yumi ItoFind albums by this artist, one of the most exciting modern Jazz vocal discoveries in the last decade. The album was recorded in an intimate setting with Ito singing and playing keyboards with Polish bassist Jakub DworakFind albums by this artist and Spanish drummer Iago FernandezFind albums by this artist. Several other musicians guest on selected tracks, including Polish guitarist Szymon MikaFind albums by this artist, who was her partner on her previous album. The album presents seven original songs, all composed by Ito, with six also featuring her lyrics and one being a wordless vocalese. The CD is lavishly packaged with a set of photographs and lyrics printed on a high-grade paper, as appropriate for a move to a major league of EnjaFind albums on this label Records – one of the most prestigious European labels.
From the very first note of the album the listener is exposed to a magical aura of unique, delicate beauty, which last for the entire duration. The seven songs, although dominated by reflection and low-key introvert restrain, are quite different from each other and present the full creative power of Ito, who is able to write sublime melodies and tell a story, each very personal on one hand, and universal in its lyricism, on the other hand.
The completely unique instrumental ornamentation, based primarily on the bass pulsations by Dworak, who does an amazing job here, and the dynamic, yet delicate drumming by Fernandez, with just some keyboard / synthesizer layers of sound here and there. This leaves the center stage for Ito’s vocal acrobatics, which are absolutely stunning but at the same time she can also be as delicate and romantic as a blossoming orchard.
The music on this album is probably the farthest removed from what is considered as Jazz in Ito’s career. Still full of typical Jazzy undercurrents and rhythmic patterns, the central role of the bass, as well as the vocal improvisations, it also freely adopts other sources, mostly from Folklore and Pop, sometimes sounding somewhat similar to Kate BushFind albums by this artist at her absolutely best – which I mean as a great compliment here.
Overall, this is a stunning piece of music, full of sublime musicality and exploding with talent, which in fact is hardly surprising in view of Ito’s earlier work and potential. The only small drawback is that the music lasts under forty minutes, and being so great one might have wished for so much more. But let’s be patient and wait for the next album by this young Artist, all made out of talent. Hugs and congratulations my Dear Lady!
| | Updated: 15/02/2023Posted: 15/02/2023 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
  | KLAUS KONIG ORCHESTRA ~ TIME FRAGMENTS
ENJA 8076 (Barcode: 063757807629) ~ GERMANY ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1994 Released: 1994
This is the fifth album by German composer / conductor Klaus KonigFind albums by this artist, recorded with a twelve-piece Orchestra comprising of many top European and American Jazz musicians, including, among others British Jazz trumpeter Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist, French tuba player Michel GodardFind albums by this artist, American violinist Mark FeldmanFind albums by this artist, bassist Mark DresserFind albums by this artist and drummer Gerry HemingwayFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, all composed by Konig, which are parts of a suite. This is the fourth installment of a five-suite cycle by Konig.
Wheeler took part also in a recording of the third album by Konig, entitled “At The End Of The UniverseFind albums with this title”. Since this is a large orchestral recording, Wheeler’s soloing is perhaps less prominent than on his small group recordings, but are especially important here, in view of Kenny’s love of large ensembles. Both albums seem to be available without much ado. This is one of Wheeler’s recordings, which remains almost completely obscure and does not appear in most of his discographies. I was very lucky to get it from Kenny’s private collection.
The music is an absolutely fascinating European Orchestral Jazz, which offers some melodic themes but the performance is full of very open / Free Form improvisations, which altogether offers a challenging, but highly rewarding listening experience and a great example of the European approach to Big Band music, which is diametrically opposed to the American Tradition. Konig certainly manages to combine the basic elements of the Jazz tradition with contemporary / almost Avant-Garde facets of the genre and the result is simply astounding. His work as a composer is certainly highly unconventional and deserves to be followed, as his recording legacy certainly proves.
Overall, this is an excellent modern Big Band / Orchestral Jazz album, performed by first class musicians, which is absolutely worth digging for, not only for the great contributions by Kenny Wheeler, but no less importantly for the splendid music and superb performances by the entire team.
| | Updated: 27/05/2023Posted: 27/05/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | BOCIAN, MICHAEL ~ REVERENCE
ENJA 8096 ~ USA ~ Jazz
AMG Review: Michael Bocian showed courage in inviting Dewey Redman to be on his date. The great (if vastly underrated) tenor can not help but consistently emerge as the solo star. His ideas on the free jazz jams and the mournful ballads are confident and creative, and he proves to still be very much in prime form. The guitarist/leader keeps up with Redman and plays long flowing lines full of spontaneous melodies but his quiet tone makes it easy to overlook his contributions. With bassist Cameron Brown really pushing the group and drummer Skip Hadden supporting the soloists with color, this is a particularly strong set of fresh new music that is easily recommended to most modern jazz followers.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | KARIN KROG ~ WHERE YOU AT?
ENJA 9144 (Barcode: 767522914429) ~ NORWAY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003
This is an album by the Norwegian Jazz singer Karin KrogFind albums by this artist, recorded in NY with a fabulous American trio: pianist Steve KuhnFind albums by this artist, bassist David FinckFind albums by this artist and drummer Billy DrummondFind albums by this artist. The album presents eleven tracks, three of which were written by Kuhn, four were composed by John SurmanFind albums by this artist with lyrics by Krog and the remaining four are standards.
Krog recorded several albums with Kuhn and they love to work together since many years, as this lovely album clearly shows. Kuhn is a highly sensitive accompanist and a virtuoso pianist, which can be heard on his numerous recordings, but his collaborations with Krog always offer a wonderful atmosphere of mutual respect and love.
Krog has been one of my favorite vocalist since decades and her idiosyncratic style and approach are absolutely unique. She combines the Jazz vocal tradition with modern and sometimes even Avant-Garde approach, especially when recording with Surman.
Overall, this is a fabulous classic Jazz vocal album, perfectly sung and played by fabulous musicians, with great mixture of original material and standards. Krog recorded quite a few albums during her career, and there is not even one of those, that does not make my day on a cloudy day. Love you, Karin!
| | Updated: 14/08/2023Posted: 14/08/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | AKI TAKASE ~ PLAYS FATS WALLER
ENJA 9152 (Barcode: 767522915228) ~ JAPAN ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2004
This is an album by Japanese (resident in Germany) pianist / composer Aki TakaseFind albums by this artist, recorded with an excellent team of German musicians: bass clarinetist Rudi MahalFind albums by this artist, trombonist Nils WogramFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Thomas HebererFind albums by this artist, drummer Paul LovensFind albums by this artist and American vocalist / banjoist / guitarist Eugene ChadbourneFind albums by this artist. The album presents fifteen, mostly short tracks, and as the title suggests most of which were composed by the great American pianist / composer Fats WallerFind albums by this artist, with six original compositions by Takase also included.
The music moves constantly between the Stride Jazz, associated with Waller, and the completely modern / Free Jazz, which is the usual modus operandi of the musicians playing on the album, creating a wonderful stylistic see-saw and a brilliant musical experience. People expecting to hear here straightforward interpretation of Harlem Jazz from the 1920s and 1930s are in for a real big surprise ;)
Takase transforms Waller’s smoothly into the 21st Century, ignoring stylistic constrains and seeming “ignoring” the traditions, but of course a trained ear easily hears the genius involved. It’s not a coincidence that Takase has been one of my all-time favorite pianist and bandleaders, and this album is a perfect example of her super-human abilities.
Obviously it takes some intellectual effort to recognize the manipulations applied to the original compositions and the transformation path they go through herein, but the satisfaction is absolutely guaranteed.
Overall, this is a brilliant example of Takase’s genius, and her unique way of treating the Jazz tradition, bringing them into contemporary Jazz. The excellent team stands up to the challenge without a hitch and this music, despite its curves and twists, is a highly aesthetic journey into the unexpected. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 16/12/2023Posted: 16/12/2023 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE WESTBROOK ~ GLAD DAY
ENJA 9376 (Barcode: 063757937623) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 1997 Released: 1999
This is a 2CD album presenting the studio recording of the "Glad Day" Jazz & Poetry project, which combines the poems of celebrated British poet William BlakeFind albums by this artist with the music composed by British pianist / composer / bandleader Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist, recorded in November 1997 at C.T.S. Studios in London. The music was performed by vocalists Phil MintonFind albums by this artist and Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist, with Mike Westbrook on piano, saxophonists Peter WhymanFind albums by this artist, Alan WakemanFind albums by this artist and Chris BiscoeFind albums by this artist, bassist Steve BerryFind albums by this artist and drummer Dave BarryFind albums by this artist. The Senior Girls Choir of Blackheath Conservatoire of MusicFind albums by this artist, directed by Lucy McAlaryFind albums by this artist appears on fire tracks and four guitarists appear on one track. The album presents twelve tracks, all composed by Mike Westbrook.
Westbrook´s association with the poetry of Blake goes back to the early days of his career, with the release of the legendary album "Tyger (A Celebration Of William Blake)Find albums with this title" released in 1971, which remains criminally unreleased on CD to this very day. In 1980 Westbrook released another Blake related album called "The Westbrook Blake (Bright As Fire)Find albums with this title" and then in 1999 he released this studio version of "Glad DayFind albums with this title" as a 2CD album, which was followed by a live version “Glad Day LiveFind albums with this title”, filmed and recorded in 2008 and released in 2014 as a DVD / CD set. Ten of the twelve compositions included in the studio version are present on the live album.
The poignant and truly revolutionary poetry of Blake challenged Westbrook to create some of his most magnificent work, combining the British traditions of Folk, Classical and Choral music with his Jazz inspirations. The result is one of the most inspiring Jazz & Poetry projects ever created. It offers a sublime balance between the lyrics and the instrumental parts, which compliment each other perfectly.
The carefully selected group of musicians performing the music is absolutely perfect for the job. Mike Westbrook plays several deeply moving solo piano parts, as do all other musicians on their respective instruments. Steve Berry is equally proficient playing arco and rhythmic pulsations. The unusual instrumental setting works out magnificently. Minton and Kate Westbrook are as usual beautifully expressive, sensitive and elegant. The choir parts are delicate and modest, as required by this fragile sonic environment. In short this is simply a perfect piece of musical artistry from start to finish.
For British Jazz lovers and Westbrook followers this is an absolute must of course. For music connoisseurs not familiar with his work (shame on you!) this is a perfect introduction to his musical world, accessible to every sensitive person on this planet.
| | Updated: 09/09/2024Posted: 09/09/2024 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | OLAF KUBLER & JAN HAMMER TRIO ~ TURTLES
ENJA 9512 (Barcode: 063757951223) ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1968 Released: 2007
This is an archival live album by German saxophonist Olaf KublerFind albums by this artist recorded with two young (at the time) Czech Jazz musicians, who just escaped from Czechoslovakia following the Soviet Pact invasion of the country, keyboardist Jan HammerFind albums by this artist and bassist Jiri MrazFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. George MrazFind albums by this artist) and Dutch drummer Cees SeeFind albums by this artist. German drummer Michael DennertFind albums by this artist plays on two tracks. The music was recorded at the legendary Munich’s Jazz Club “The Domicile”, which was an epicenter of the German / European Jazz and a mecca for international Jazz between 1965 and 1981. The two Czech refugees lived in the musician’s rooms above the club for several months, before they emigrated to the US. The album presents ten tracks, two of which are originals by Kubler, three are originals by Mraz, one an original by Hammer and the remaining four are standards.
The music is typical modern European Jazz of the late 1960s, mostly Bebop based but featuring original compositions. Although pretty young at the time, both Czechs prove to be excellent players already, which explains their smooth and immediate integration into to top US scene, following their arrival there. The original compositions are all as strong as the standards. But of course the album is first and foremost a genuine piece of Jazz history of the turbulent, but highly interesting times. Personally it immediately strikes the fabulous memories of the many nights I had the opportunity to spend at “The Domicile”, watching the modern European Jazz during its formative years.
Considering the fact that the music was recorded at rather Spartan conditions, the sound quality / clarity is quite remarkable, and the remastering presents all the nuances of the music in perfect condition.
Overall, this is a remarkable document of the European Jazz history in one of the epicenters of its development. For people familiar with Hammer’s Fusion explorations, his acoustic piano work here should be a revelation. Mraz was already a great bassist then, and remains so to this very day. This is a great little gem, sadly often overlooked and definitely worth an honorable place in any serious record collection.
| | Updated: 30/05/2023Posted: 30/05/2023 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIKE WESTBROOK ~ THE CORTEGE
ENJA 9587 (Barcode: 063757958727) ~ UK ~ Jazz & Poetry
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2011
This is a reissue of the monumental work by British pianist / composer / bandleader Mike WestbrookFind albums by this artist and his 17-piece Orchestra, recorded in 1982, which features some of the most important British Jazz musicians active at the time, many of them Westbrook´s cohorts many years before and after the recording of this masterpiece. This of course includes his lifetime partner vocalist Kate WestbrookFind albums by this artist, and among others guitarist Brian GoddingFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Phil MintonFind albums by this artist, trombonist Malcolm GriffithsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Chris HunterFind albums by this artist and Chris BiscoeFind albums by this artist and bassoonist Lindsay CooperFind albums by this artist; in short a dream team by all respects. Originally released as a 3 LPs set it was remastered and released here as a double CD.
"The CortegeFind albums with this title" is a concept album, related to the funeral procession and all it symbolizes, in this case a procession accompanied by music, like the customary New Orleans Jazz funeral which goes back to the cradle of the Jazz idiom, but not stopping there of course, neither conceptually not musically. The lyrics, which are incorporated into the concept, which are poems written by celebrated European poets: Arthur RimbaudFind albums by this artist, Hermann HesseFind albums by this artist, Frederico Garcia LorcaFind albums by this artist, Giuseppe Gioachino BelliFind albums by this artist, John ClareFind albums by this artist and Pentii SaarikoskiFind albums by this artist (included in the album´s booklet both in their original language and in English translations, when appropriate), present an additional layer to the conceptual approach, which presents a three part cycle of life / death / after(life), with all the philosophical, aesthetic and even theological aspects involved. Of course listeners interested only the musical layer of this complex work, are perfectly free to enjoy it as such in the fullest.
Mike´s and Kate´s musical universe was always an amalgam of music and poetry in one way or another, and their approach to music as simply one facet of what we call Culture, being inseparable from its other manifestations, has been very consistent. Their familiarity with the literary world in many different languages and originating from all across Europe is truly phenomenal, and as an avid connoisseur of European Culture myself, I have always admired the Westbrooks for what they were doing. Since the Jazz & Poetry idiom, which this work and many other works by the Westbrooks belong to, is my specialty (bordering on obsession some may say) it is plainly obvious that I absolutely admire this album since I first heard it and unwaveringly continue to do so.
In Westbrook´s prolific recorded legacy this album serves as a turning point in many respects; although some of the albums recorded before "The Cortege" already included literary references, like those dedicated to the work of William BlakeFind albums by this artist ("Tyger (A Celebration of William Blake)Find albums with this title" from 1971 and "The Westbrook Blake (Bright As Fire)Find albums with this title" from 1980), the inclusion of literary contents from this point forward was about to become almost a modus operandi, both for the large scale orchestral and more intimate projects. Blake, of course, is not missing from this album and a rendition of his eternal "Jerusalem" is included herein.
It is fascinating to make a comparison of the orchestral arrangements present on this album with Westbrook´s early orchestral works from the late 1960s and early 1970s, which clearly depicts his ever developing palette as a composer / arranger as well as his shift towards less dominant orchestral sound, which is rarely used in its full might on this album with subtlety and allusion playing a much more significant role.
In many respects "The Cortege" embodies the spirit of European Jazz; it includes a grain of the Jazz tradition, but expands the idiom dramatically, incorporating contemporary European Classical Music elements, Folklore, Rock, Cabaret, and a myriad of other musical and non-musical ingredients. This transformation could be described by a mathematical analogy of expanding a singularity (a point) into a multi-dimensional space.
In retrospect this album is one of the most important European Jazz (and beyond) recordings, which to this day has very few, if any, equivalents and which serves (or rather should serve) as a model of human ingenuity in the world of Art, which is sadly extremely rarely followed by anybody these days.
I can hardly imagine any serious European Jazz connoisseurs who miss this epic album in their collections. In case anybody does miss it, this can be easily rectified, as this remastered edition of the album is still available. Don´t dare to think twice about it!
| | Updated: 28/03/2016Posted: 28/03/2016 | CD 2 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALON NECHUSHTAN ~ VENTURE BOUND
ENJA 9603 (Barcode: 063757960324) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2014 Released: 2014
This is another wonderful album by Israeli (resident in US) pianist / composer Alon NechushtanFind albums by this artist, one of the leading contemporary Jewish Jazz musicians. It was recorded in a quartet setting with saxophonists Donny McCaslinFind albums by this artist and John EllisFind albums by this artist alternating between the tracks, bassist Chris LighcapFind albums by this artist and drummer Adam CruzFind albums by this artist. Three guest musicians participate on a few tracks. The album presents nine original compositions, all by Nechushtan.
Each new album by Alon Nechushtan offers a fresh glimpse at his diverse and complex musical personality, which seems to be able to encompass a vast, cross-genre richness, which eventually becomes his very own. The most amazing quality of his is that he always sounds as if he already played this or that specific sub-genre for years, whereas in fact a comprehensive knowledge of his output so far reveals that he is probably one of the most chameleonic Jazz musicians around.
But regardless of the specific musical environment Nechushtan selects as his weapon of choice at a specific moment, he is always honest, both with himself and the listener. The quality of players he selects as his partners, the wonderful technical qualities, the incredible melodic wealth and above all the ability to communicate with his fellow musicians and his public alike are a direct result of this honesty.
Nechushtan´s music is always an amalgam of influences: first and foremost Jewish music in all forms and shapes, but also the endless varieties of the Jazz Art Form, which together create the new "Jewish Jazz" phenomenon, which is taking shape on the contemporary music scene all over the world, but mainly in the three focal places: America, Israel and Poland. These three scenes, although slightly different, are going in the same direction in many respects, and Nechushtan is definitely one of the Jewish Jazz most prominent pioneers.
This album, although less obviously connected with the Jewish context and emphasizing the Jazz tradition and its contemporary state of affairs, is nevertheless an integral part of his continuous musical journey, which is always fascinating and heartwarming.
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | LESZEK ZADLO QUARTET ~ LIVE IN HAMBURG `75
FOR TUNE 0170 (Barcode: 5906395808847) ~ POLAND ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2024
By the mid-1970s West Germany became a true Mecca of European Jazz. The great economic resurgence allowed benevolent support of Arts by the German regional and Federal governments, and Jazz became a highly popular and flourishing Artform, bursting with concert activity all around the country. The many indoor and outdoor Jazz festivals, venues ranging from newly constructed concert halls to small clubs and cellars, music schools with Jazz departments and a vast number of thriving independent record labels, like MPSFind albums on this label, ECMFind albums on this label and EnjaFind albums on this label, to mention but a few, all these created a climate, which not only enabled the local musicians to flourish, but also acted like a magnet pulling Jazz musicians from all over the world to move to Germany and take part in the celebration of creating the new European Jazz miracle.
Since Europe was at the time literally split by the Iron Curtain into “West” and “East”, moving to Germany from the USA or other West European countries was a breeze. However, as far as East European Jazz musicians were concerned, such move was, more often than not, only but a dream. That did not mean, of course, that some of them would not try, and eventually also succeed to make such transition.
Born in Krakow in 1945, Polish Jazz saxophonist / flautist / composer / educator Leszek ZadloFind albums by this artist was one of the first Polish Jazz musicians, who managed to make the “West” their new home. He moved first to Austria, in 1966, where he polished his education and performing skills, playing constantly with the best local and visiting international Jazz players. There he recorded his debut album “Inner SilenceFind albums with this title” in 1973. In 1975 Zadlo relocated to Germany, settling in Munich and quickly becoming an integral part of the busy local scene.
This album presents a live recording by Zadlo with an international quartet, which includes American pianist Larry PorterFind albums by this artist, who was one of the many US musicians staying at the time in Germany, and a German rhythm section comprising of bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Joe NayFind albums by this artist. The concert was a part of the 1. New Jazz Festival, which took place in Hamburg in June of 1975. The festival’s concerts were presented at two legendary local venues: “Fabrik” and “Onkel Pös Carnegie Hall”, where the music on this album was recorded. The Festival’s lineup included several ensembles, led by important international Jazz artists, like Norwegian Terje RypdalFind albums by this artist, American Dave LiebmanFind albums by this artist, German Eberhard WeberFind albums by this artist and… Polish Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, another proud representative of the Eastern European Jazz scene. Parts of the performances by these artists were included on a commemorative album released by the Polydor label later that year. The fact that Leszek Zadlo was invited to take part in this important festival speaks volumes about his status as a part of the evolving European Jazz Avant-Garde.
The music is, as expected, a brilliant example of European Free Jazz / Improvised Music hurricane, exploding with emotions and sublime musicianship. Zadlo’s “infatuation” with the music of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist is obvious, but Zadlo offers his very own voice and interpretation of Freedom, which is perhaps less wild and instinctive, but rather more expressive and balanced, without losing touch with the world around. There is no doubt that Zadlo was at that period of his life perhaps the most “Coltrane oriented” European Jazz musician, all the way as total as the great Master, and with complete and full control of his faculties. Watching Zadlo on stage was like facing a Force of Nature, being totally and utterly swept by flow of his energy, all of which is wonderfully captured herein. His partners in crime are completely up to the task, as expected. It would be a sin to leave this music dormant in the vault and I am extremely happy to see it out in the open.
Love you my Friend, as always!
Side Note
The above are my liner notes included on this album's artwork.
I am honored when asked by the Artists to write liner notes for their albums, always hoping that my words reflect the true spirit of the music. This is also a symbol of our mutual respect and friendship developed over the years.
The same is also true when Record Labels ask me to write liner notes for their releases, mostly in the case of reissues of archival albums, which is a symbol of their appreciation of my knowledge and historical perspective and my recognition of their dedication to the preservation of the history of recorded music and the effort to keep human Culture and Aesthetics alive.
| | Updated: 06/12/2024Posted: 06/12/2024 | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | ALBERT MANGELSDORFF QUARTET ~ NEVER LET IT END
MPS 602517060029 (Barcode: 602517060029) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2008
This is a reissue / remaster of an album by German trombonist / composer / bandleader Albert MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, recorded with his all German quartet, which includes some of the finest European Jazz musicians active at the time: saxophonist Heinz SauerFind albums by this artist, bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and drummer Ralf HubnerFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven tracks, four composed by Mangelsdorff, two by Sauer and one by Hubner. The album was produced by my Friend and Mentor Joachim BerendtFind albums by this artist and his original liner notes (albeit only in German) are included on the album’s artwork.
Mangelsdorff, and his brother Emil MangelsdorffFind albums by this artist, were the pillars of the modern German Jazz scene, which developed rapidly after WWII, both in West and East Germany, peaking in the late 1960s. Germany developed in time as an epicenter of the continental Jazz scene, with huge number of excellent musicians, brilliant club and festival scene and the strongest music recording industry, with legendary labels like MPSFind albums on this label, ECMFind albums on this label, EnjaFind albums on this label and many others, which produced the finest modern Jazz recordings in the world, leaving the US scene far beyond from that time on.
Albert Mangelsdorff was one of the most vital figures on that scene and his ever changing groups pushed the Jazz limits at all times. His absolutely unique virtuosity on the trombone changed the role of that instrument to an equally important position in the Jazz ensemble as trumpet and saxophone. I was lucky to meet him and see / hear him play and record on numerous occasions and he always left an enormous impression as a person and a musician.
His recorded legacy, which he managed to amass very prolifically, is one of the most important individual European Jazz legacies, which this album proudly represents. The music here presents a perfect amalgam of the Jazz tradition and the rapid development towards modern and Free Jazz.
Overall, this is one of the most interesting 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 fifty 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: 20/07/2024Posted: 20/07/2024 | CD 1 Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HANS KOLLER ~ KUNSTKOPFINDIANER (MOST PERFECT SOUND EDITION)
MPS 9813439 (Barcode: 602498134399) ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2003
Austrian saxophonist, composer and bandleader Hans KollerFind albums by this artist was one of the most important European jazz musicians and one of the forefathers of the European modern jazz movement. This is his most legendary album and for years an impossible to find rarity among collectors. The quintet includes some of the most important European jazz players: German pianist Wolfgang DaunerFind albums by this artist (who is also one of the European jazz giants), Polish violin virtuoso Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist (whose untimely death at a very young age prevented him from achieving the status of the greatest jazz violinist ever), superb Polish drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and Austrian bass genius Adelhard RoidingerFind albums by this artist.
Together they play some of the best European jazz ever recorded, which can be described as free melodic sketches and structures. The music was composed by the quintet members (as each of them is also a gifted composer in addition to being an exceptional instrumentalist) and is full of passion, lofty inspiration and pleasurable sophistication. The German MPSFind albums on this label label, which was active in the 1960’s and 1970’s, was the first and most important independent European jazz label (before ECMFind albums on this label, EnjaFind albums on this label, SteeplechaseFind albums by this artist and scores of others), setting incredible high standards both for the musical contents and the revolutionary audiophile sound-recording quality. This album is essential to every jazz enthusiast on earth!
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: 28/05/2018Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
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