Record Reviews
22 Reviews Found. Use search to find more reviews or follow the links in the review text.
  | ALON NECHUSHTAN ~ RITUAL FIRE
BETWEEN THE LINES 71234 (Barcode: 608917123425) ~ ISRAEL ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2011 Released: 2013
This is a strikingly beautiful album by Israeli (living in NY) pianist / composer Alon NechushtanFind albums by this artist with a quartet which also includes the bassist Ken FilianoFind albums by this artist, drummer Bob MeyerFind albums by this artist and the legendary Israeli clarinetist Harold RubinFind albums by this artist. The quartet performs ten pieces that are mostly freely improvised, based on compositional guidelines by Nechushtan, which together constitute an "action" suite, a term describing an artistic on-the-fly creation. This is Nechushtan´s fourth consecutive exceptional album in a span of just a few years, firmly establishing him as a major player of the contemporary Jazz / Improvised Music scene.
Although released under Nechushtan´s name, the album is primarily a remarkable tribute to the exceptional abilities of Rubin, who was almost eighty years old when this music was recorded. Although still relatively little acknowledged on the international music scene, Rubin is a force of Nature, with absolutely no competition anywhere in the world. His playing, or rather creation of sounds, is completely unique and transcends the Jazz tradition by light-years. Wonderfully he is getting better with time and the advanced age seems to bless him with ageless vitality and musical astuteness. Nechushtan is to be congratulated for recognizing Rubin´s contribution and keeping the rhythm section relatively in the background, mostly supporting Rubin´s soloing.
But of course the rhythm section plays all along and they play wonderfully. These are all experienced and very talented players, who all have recognized recorded legacies to their names, and therefore don´t need to prove anything by taking more of the personal space that the opportunity called for. Again they all deserve to be praised for their attitude.
The music is typically spontaneous and limitless, creating an aesthetic aura of elegance, beauty and artistic "fire", which should win over every open-minded listener. This is true "high art", which should be celebrated and revered, as it is rare and fragile.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEBHARD ULLMANN / BASEMENT RESEARCH ~ HAT AND SHOES
BETWEEN THE LINES 71238 (Barcode: 608917123821) ~ GERMANY ~ Free Jazz / Improvised Music
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2014
This is an album by German saxophonist / bass clarinetist / composer Gebhard UllmannFind albums by this artist and his international Basement ResearchFind albums by this artist quintet, which also includes American trombonist Steve SwellFind albums by this artist, British saxophonist Julian ArguellesFind albums by this artist (playing baritone saxophone here), German / French bassist Pascal NiggenkemperFind albums by this artist and American drummer Gerald CleaverFind albums by this artist. The album presents seven original compositions by the leader, recorded by the legendary sound engineer Walter QuintusFind albums by this artist.
The music is a classic European Free Jazz recording, based on composed themes but offering a lot of open space and freedom of individual improvisation, overall pretty well “organized” / “well behaved”, which manages to eschew total havoc and chaos. The quintet plays admirably well together, producing coherent statements and ever-changing fabric of difficult, but exciting music. Although two-thirds of the quintet are American musicians, this music is obviously way more European in nature and sound, perhaps somewhat more tamed than American Free Jazz, but definitely way more effective.
All the members of the quintet are of course seasoned and well-known musicians within the Free Jazz scene, with impressive recorded legacy behind them. As a result, the individual statements included herein are all truly inspired. Personally I am most impressed by the ensemble sound, which sounds really impressive and brilliantly lucid, obviously emphasized by the splendid sound quality of the album.
Overall, this is an excellent example of the European Free jazz, which offers exciting ensemble playing and virtuosic individual statements, which all come together in a precise, listenable way. This music obviously requires effort and open-mindedness to be enjoyed, but is definitely highly rewarding and as such recommended!
| | Updated: 16/04/2022Posted: 16/04/2022 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | RANDY CALIFORNIA & SPIRIT ~ THE EURO-AMERICAN YEARS 1979-1983
ESOTERIC 2734 (Barcode: 5013929473485) ~ USA ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1979 - 1983 Released: 2020
This is an archival / reissue Box Set by American guitarist / vocalist / songwriter Randy CaliforniaFind albums by this artist and his legendary group SpiritFind albums by this artist, compiled and mastered by archivist Mike SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, who is in charge of the entire series of Spirit archival releases on the EsotericFind albums on this label label. This Box Set expands the previous 4CD release of this material from 2006 released on ArcadiaFind albums on this label, and adds two additional CDs of previously unreleased live material by Spirit and Randy California BandFind albums by this artist.
The Box Set includes six CDs:
CD1 presents some early demos and bonus material not included on the original release of the “Euro AmericanFind albums with this title” album from 1982, the original tracks of that album and some post album tracks.
CD2 presents tracks that were originally released on the German only LP “Shattered DreamsFind albums with this title” released on LineFind albums on this label Records and a plethora of additional archival tracks.
CD3 presents various live appearances by Spirit from 1980 and 1981 in Europe and US.
CD4 presents demo and live material by Randy California Band.
CD5 presents a previously unreleased live concert recording by Spirit from 1981.
CD6 presents a previously unreleased live concerts recording by Randy California Band from their British appearances at Reading and Glastonbury festivals.
These recordings feature Randy California on vocals, guitars and occasional keyboards, bassists Steve LoriaFind albums by this artist and Mike SheppherdFind albums by this artist, drummers Ed CassidyFind albums by this artist, Jack WilloughbyFind albums by this artist and Preston HeymanFind albums by this artist and others. It is noteworthy to state that Spirit enjoyed a much wider popularity in Europe, mainly in UK and Germany, during most of their musical career.
Overall, this is an incredible piece of American Rock history and a great tribute to one of greatest American Rock bands, which Spirit obviously were, as much as a tribute to the incredible talents of Randy California, who was both an extraordinary guitarist and a superb songwriter, often sadly underappreciated. This is an obvious labor of love and a part of a unique recording legacy document on a scale rarely attempted, which Spirit obviously deserves.
| | Updated: 01/03/2022Posted: 13/01/2022 | CD 6 Mini-Sleeve Box Set Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SPENCER DAVIS ~ SO FAR
EVANGELINE 4123 (Barcode: 805772412323) ~ UK ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 2006 Released: 2008
This is a solo album by the Welsh vocalist / multi-instrumentalist / bandleader Spencer DavisFind albums by this artist, famous for founding and leading one of the greatest British Pop / Rock groups during the Golden Decade, The Spencer Davis GroupFind albums by this artist, which also included in its original lineup the young (15 years old) Steve WinwoodFind albums by this artist, who later left the group to form the celebrated group TrafficFind albums by this artist. Davis led many incarnations of the Spencer Davis Group over the years, but this is (so far) his last recording.
The album features thirteen original songs, most of which were co-written by Davis and the band members. All the songs are excellent and have a strong nostalgic tinge which makes them sound as if they were recorded way back in the good old 1960s / 1970s. Stylistically the music moves between British Folk, Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Rock and there is not a dull moment on this album from start to finish. The accompanying band consists of seasoned instrumentalists and they do a great job playing these songs as if there´s no tomorrow.
It is hard to guess if this is indeed the very last album by Davis, but if so it certainly is a great way to say goodbye to the numerous fans after over five decades of playing music. People who like the British Classic Rock sound will find here an album they can easily identify with. They don´t make music like that today anymore, or they do it very rarely, like in this case. Strongly recommended!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 03/04/2016 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | ASHQELON QUILT ~ THE EVENT
HEADLINE 506 ~ ISRAEL ~ Progressive Rock
Debut album from 2001 by the Israeli Prog group. Since Prog albums from Israel are quite a rare event, especially when released by a UK record label, this one is a real joy. The music has a nice 70`s feel with a touch of psychedelics, just right. A few `eastern` touches as well, all in very good taste. A real nice surprise!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MATERNA, PETER ~ JAZZ CONTRACT
JAZZLINE 11131 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
This excellent modern-jazz quartet led by saxophone player Peter Materna represents well the incredibly high level of the young generation of European jazz players, who not only have flawless technique, but are also able to compose memorable melodies. The music sounds familiar, yet has enough unique characteristic to be interesting and even challenging at times.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WENIGER, PETER / NUSS, HUBERT ~ HYMN TO GOBRO
JAZZLINE 11132 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
This excellent German quintet fronted by Peter Weniger (sax) and Hubert Nuss (piano) plays some excellent modern-jazz, which is in every respect as good as anything performed by much more familiar names. These relatively young musicians know their turf perfectly and show it every inch of the way. The material is mostly composed by the quintet members with just two standars by Miles Davis and Wayne Shorter.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | LAKATOS, TONY ~ RECYCLING
JAZZLINE 11134 ~ HUNGARY ~ Jazz
Tony Lakatos is one of many great Hungarian jazz players, but also one of the very few that really `made it` on the European and American scene. Considered as one of the best post-Coltrane sax playes his dynamics and power of expression are truly amazing. On this great album he is supported by the best: Kirk Lightsey - piano, Tibor Elekes - bass & Al Foster - drums.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | SAXTON, BILL ~ ATYMONY
JAZZLINE 11136 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Saxton is one of the best young Afro-American sax players in NY and this album proves that to anybody who cares to listen. Enegretic but lyrical, expressive but ballanced. Nice mixture of original compositions and standards with excellent backing from his colleagues: Carlos McKinney - piano, Omar Avital - bass & Noel Parris - drums.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | CONTEMPO TRIO ~ NO JAMF`S ALLOWED
JAZZLINE 11137 ~ USA ~ Jazz
Great piano trio album with Mark Soskin - piano, Charles Jackson - bass and Danny Gottlieb - drums playing an excellent mixture of standards and originals. Rivi Coltrane - sax guests on several tracks, which spices this album up very nicely. Satisfaction guaranteed!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | MATERNA, PETER ~ AQUARIUS
JAZZLINE 11142 ~ GERMANY ~ Jazz
German saxophonist Peter Materna is a leading modern-jazz figure in his country and quite well known outside its borders. This recording with his quartet showcases his excellent improvisational qualities as well as his talent as a composer (he wrote the entire material). All members of the quartet are very accomplished musicians and especially worth mentioning is the lyrical piano of Martin Scholz.
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | FINKEL, SIGI / SPECIAL STATION ~ SWEET SUE
JAZZLINE 11143 ~ AUSTRIA ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Austrian saxophonist Sigi Finkel, who is very well known on the US scene, surrounded himself with some of the best know musicians to create his debut album: John Abercrombie (guitar), Enrico Rava (Trumpet), Ed Schuller (bass) a.o. The result is some of the most refreshing modern jazz / fusion music recorded in a long time. All copositions are by Finkel and they all swing and drive!
| | | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | WES MONTGOMERY ~ THE NDR HAMBURG STUDIO RECORDINGS
JAZZLINE 77078 (Barcode: 4049774770784) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2021
This is an archival album by the seminal American guitarist / composer Wes MontgomeryFind albums by this artist, recorded live on April 30, 1965, during his European tour, which also included an appearance at the Ronnie ScottFind albums by this artist’s club in London just prior to this recording. Montgomery is supported by a dreamy octet, which includes British saxophonists Scott and Ronnie RossFind albums by this artist, and drummer Ronnie StephensonFind albums by this artist (the 3 Ronnies), Austrian saxophonist Hans KollerFind albums by this artist, American (resident in Europe from 1963) saxophonist Johnny GriffinFind albums by this artist, French pianist Martial SolalFind albums by this artist and bassist Michel GaudryFind albums by this artist. The album presents ten tracks, four of which are Montgomery’s originals, two are by Ross, one each by Solal and Griffin, one is by Thelonious MonkFind albums by this artist and one is a standard. The recording offers a brilliant sound quality. The bonus BD offers a half an hour glimpse at the octet’s rehearsal a couple of days before the concert.
Montgomery was at the top of his career at the time and his death, which came just three years after this recording was made, was a complete shock and a tragic premature end of his life and career.
The guitarist feels absolutely delighted supported by these European musicians, who offered already at that time a much more refined, delicate and ambitious approach to the Bebop atmosphere, and presented a highly sophisticated individual abilities as soloists.
The music is performed at a relaxed atmosphere, which emphasizes the obvious camaraderie between the musicians, and is in interesting document of the European scene at the time, as well as a tribute to Montgomery’s brilliant and innovative approach to the guitar.
Overall, for the many fans of Montgomery, this is an absolute must, not only as a document of his performances, but especially due to the unusual setting in which these recordings were made. One has to be grateful to those Germans, who keep all that historical material in perfect form, as usual.
| | Updated: 09/02/2024Posted: 09/02/2024 | CD+BD 2 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ THREE LINE WHIP
THREE LINE WHIP 001 (Barcode: 5017771102623) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1993 Released: 1993
This is the first album recorded by British Jazz vocalist / keyboardist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist with his two sons: guitarist Tristan PowellFind albums by this artist and drummer James PowellFind albums by this artist, a family trio called Three Line WhipFind albums on this label, which also became the name of Fame’s record label. The trio is augmented by some of the top British Jazz instrumentalists: Trumpeter Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Peter KingFind albums by this artist, Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Steve GregoryFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist and bassist Brian OdgersFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine songs (one repeated twice), mostly Fame originals.
The music is absolutely lovely, as always, and presents Fame as a completely original songwriter and interpreter of Jazz / Blues / Soul / Pop songs, who had a few equals over time. His feeling for the Blues, which was present in everything he sang and played over the years, was undoubtedly his signature, but in his songwriting Fame contributed some of the most beautiful songs ever written, often with highly whimsical and humorous lyrics.
Fame’s last album on his label, the fabulous “Swan SongFind albums with this title” released in 2015, hints as to the possibility of being his last recording, but I still firmly believe and hope that he might bless us with some more of his musical bliss. Please!
| | Updated: 01/05/2021Posted: 01/05/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ RELATIONSHIPS
THREE LINE WHIP 005 (Barcode: 5020883007342) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001
This is a delightful album by veteran British vocalist / organist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, my all times favorite British Jazz singer. With a splendid career going back to the early 1960s, Fame moved gradually from Rhythm And Blues and Pop, which dominated his early career, towards Jazz, and became a superb interpreter of standards as well as fabulous writer of original material, which is completely unique and full of deep lyricism and Blues undertones. On this album Fame is surrounded by a superb group of top British Jazz musicians: trumpeter Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Peter KingFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist, guitarist Tristan PowellFind albums by this artist, bassist Geoff GascoyneFind albums by this artist, drummer James PowellFind albums by this artist and percussionist Ralph SalminsFind albums by this artist (the two Powells are of course Fame’s sons). Fame sings and plays keyboards as usual. The album presents twelve tracks (one a medley of two songs), eleven of which are original songs by Fame and two are standards.
The music is absolutely delightful from start to finish, as expected, and it is truly heartwarming to see (and hear) an artist in the fifth decade of his career sounding as fresh as ever and full of productive powers, enriched over the time with experience. Combined with the typical “Englishness” and tongue in cheek attitude, this music is just pure delight.
Sadly, this is one the very last albums recorded by Fame in the new Millennium, which is a great pity. Some archival recordings of his and collections of his earlier recordings still pop up once in a while, proving that he is definitely not forgotten.
For his many fans, this album is an absolute must have of course, and although nor easy to be found these days, it is definitely worth pursuing. A Gem!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 05/03/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ CHARLESTONS
THREE LINE WHIP 006 ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2002 - 2003 Released: 2003
This is a delightful album by veteran British vocalist / organist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, my all times favorite British Jazz singer. With a splendid career going back to the early 1960s, Fame moved gradually from Rhythm And Blues and Pop, which dominated his early career, towards Jazz, and became a superb interpreter of standards as well as fabulous writer of original material, which is completely unique and full of deep lyricism and Blues undertones. On this album Fame is surrounded by a superb group of top British Jazz musicians: trumpeter Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist and Nick PaynFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist, guitarist Tristan PowellFind albums by this artist, bassist Geoff GascoyneFind albums by this artist, drummer James PowellFind albums by this artist and percussionist Ralph SalminsFind albums by this artist (the two Powells are of course Fame’s sons). Fame sings and plays keyboards as usual and two fabulous vocalists: Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist and Madeline BellFind albums by this artist help with the singing. The album presents eleven tracks (one a medley of two songs), eight of which are original songs by Fame and four are standards.
The music is absolutely delightful from start to finish, as expected, and it is truly heartwarming to see (and hear) an artist in the fifth decade of his career sounding as fresh as ever and full of productive powers, enriched over the time with experience. Combined with the typical “Englishness” and tongue in cheek attitude, this music is just pure delight.
Sadly, this is one the very last albums recorded by Fame in the new Millennium, which is a great pity. Some archival recordings of his and collections of his earlier recordings still pop up once in a while, proving that he is definitely not forgotten.
For his many fans, this album is an absolute must have of course, and although nor easy to be found these days, it is definitely worth pursuing. A Gem!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 07/03/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ BIRTHDAY BIG BAND
THREE LINE WHIP 007 (Barcode: 640999906428) ~ UK ~ Big Band Jazz
Recorded: 1998 Released: 2004
This is an album by British Jazz vocalist / keyboardist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, recorded live during a concert celebrating his fifty-fifth Birthday, recorded with a fabulous Big Band created especially for the occasion and conducted by composer / arranger Steve GrayFind albums by this artist. The eighteen strong Big Band includes some of the top British Jazz instrumentalists: trumpeters Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist and Derek WatkinsFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, Peter KingFind albums by this artist and Art ThemenFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist, bassist Geoff GascoyneFind albums by this artist, drummer Ralph SalminsFind albums by this artist and others. Guest artists include guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist and vocalists Madeline BellFind albums by this artist, Zoot MoneyFind albums by this artist and Ben SidranFind albums by this artist. The 2CD album presents twenty-three songs, fourteen of which were composed or co-composed by Fame.
The music presents, as appropriate for the occasion, the entire retrospective of Fame’s musical career, including his greatest hits, as well as the entire scope of his stylistic diversity, presenting Fame as a completely original songwriter and interpreter of Jazz / Rhythm And Blues songs, who had a few equals over time. His feeling for the Blues, which was present in everything he sang and played over the years, was undoubtedly his signature, but in his songwriting Fame contributed some of the most beautiful songs ever written, often with highly whimsical and humorous lyrics.
This album, due to the Big Band arrangements, is one of the most Jazz oriented recordings by Fame, but by far not the only one, as he loved to perform and record with Big Bands, something I was lucky to witness in person several times over the years. Fame is definitely one of the very few vocalists who is able to blend in perfectly with a Jazz Big Band and a Rhythm And Blues combo with the same, impeccable result.
The album is an orgy of great tunes, superb instrumental performances and brilliant vocals, which simply cannot leave any music lover cold, unless he is already cold dead. What luck this concert was recorded and eventually released on record (six years later, but of course better late than never). It has been one of my favorite Fame recordings since the day it was released and a superb summary of those first fifty-five years. God Bless!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 15/05/2021 | CD 2 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ TONE-WHEELS `A` TURNIN`
THREE LINE WHIP 008 (Barcode: 5032396000031) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2009
This is an album by British Jazz vocalist / keyboardist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, recorded with a fabulous band that includes his two sons: guitarist Tristan PowellFind albums by this artist and drummer James PowellFind albums by this artist, as well as some of the top British Jazz instrumentalists: trumpeter Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist and bassist Alec DankworthFind albums by this artist. Fame half-jokingly calls the band The Last Blue FlamesFind albums by this artist, a tribute to the revolving band that accompanied him throughout his career since 1962. The album presents twelve original songs, all composed or co-composed by Fame.
The music is absolutely lovely, as always, and presents Fame as a completely original songwriter and interpreter of Jazz / Rhythm And Blues songs, who had a few equals over time. His feeling for the Blues, which was present in everything he sang and played over the years, was undoubtedly his signature, but in his songwriting Fame contributed some of the most beautiful songs ever written, often with highly whimsical and humorous lyrics.
This album also features prominently Fame’s playing the Hammond organ, which was less prominent on his later albums, proving that he was one of the best organists on the British scene ever.
Despite the “Last Blue Flames” warning, Fame recorded another album on his label five years later with almost identical lineup, the fabulous “Swan SongFind albums with this title” released in 2015, hinting as to the possibility of being his last recording, but I still firmly believe and hope that he might bless us with some more of his musical bliss. Please!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 09/05/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ LOST IN A LOVER`S DREAM
THREE LINE WHIP 009 (Barcode: 848542038248) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2012 Released: 2012
This is an album by British Jazz singer / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist recorded in what is probably his most intimate recording setting in his entire career, accompanied just by Slovenian guitarist Primoz GrasicFind albums by this artist and Croatian bassist Mario MavrinFind albums by this artist. The album presents twelve songs, seven of which are Fame originals and the rest are standards. The music was recorded in Slovenia and offers a wonderful, natural sound quality.
Fame visited former Yugoslavia and later Croatia on a regular basis since the early 1980s and established close bonds with local musicians, which eventually led to the recording of this album, released on his label Three Line WhipFind albums on this label, sadly being one of his last recordings (so far).
Personally I think this is one of his absolutely best Jazz recordings, with the subtle intimate accompaniment by the two excellent musicians suiting the ambience ideally. Fame does not play keyboards here and is completely focused on the vocals, which again produces some of his best singing ever. The guitar / bass accompaniment is a classic example of clever and amicable support a vocalist should expect from his companions.
The music is an ideal combination of Fame originals and his favorite standards, which he delivers in his idiosyncratic manner, which has no equals. For some strange reason this album is extremely hard to find and it took me years to get hold of a copy, and believe you me I know where to look. I am glad I persisted, as this album definitely crowns my (hopefully complete) collection of his recorded legacy.
Overall, this is an absolute must for all Fame fans the world over, and one of his absolute best late period recordings, which is no less than an epitome of his unique talent and incredible delivery. An absolute must!
| | Updated: 28/09/2021Posted: 28/09/2021 | CD 1 Recommend To A Friend |
  | GEORGIE FAME ~ SWAN SONGS
THREE LINE WHIP 010 (Barcode: 5052442008002) ~ UK ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2013 Released: 2015
This is a delightful album by veteran British singer / keyboardist / songwriter Georgie FameFind albums by this artist, one of my all time favorite British Jazz musicians and especially vocalists. He is supported by a wonderful team, which includes trumpeter Guy BarkerFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Alan SkidmoreFind albums by this artist, vibraphonist Anthony KerrFind albums by this artist, bassist Alec DankworthFind albums by this artist, guitarist Tristan PowellFind albums by this artist, drummer James PowellFind albums by this artist (the last two are Fame´s sons since his real name is Clive PowellFind albums by this artist after all) and percussionist Ralph SalminsFind albums by this artist. Legendary vocalist Madeline BellFind albums by this artist appears on two tracks. The album presents twelve tracks, ten of which are original songs by Fame and two are standards.
As the album´s title ominously suggests, this album was meant to be the last recording by Fame, and sadly so far, six years after it was recorded, no other new album was recorded by him, which is a great pity, especially in view of the excellent form he displays on this album. The music is the usual mixture of Blues, Rhythm And Blues and Jazz, which Fame so uniquely combined into his own idiom for decades. His highly personal delivery, always mixed with a dash (or more) of British humor, and his charismatic presence will remain forever in the memory of those who knew him and his music.
The album´s songs present a concept of a person telling his life´s story via the autographical songwriting, which works beautifully from start to finish. The album as a whole is simply a marvelous piece of artistry and if this is indeed to be Fame´s swan song, it is a most appropriate goodbye gesture.
I don´t think I need to persuade anybody familiar with Fame´s music to grab this marvelous album as long as it is available. As for me – Fame´s music was a true ingredient of the soundtrack of my life, from his very first recordings in the early 1960s and until this one – five decades of joy and musical bliss. Thank you!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: 29/09/2019 | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Recommend To A Friend |
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