Record Reviews
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  | JERZY MILIAN ~ BAZAAR (POLISH JAZZ VOL.17)
GAD 017 (Barcode: 5901549197204) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2014
This is a newly remastered reissue of the debut album by Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, which was originally released in 1969 as part of the legendary Polish Jazz Series by the state owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label label. The album was recorded in a trio format, with Milian playing vibraphone and marimba, bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist (who also plays the oriental gidjak on one tune) and drummer Grzegorz GierlowskiFind albums by this artist. Two members of the legendary Polish vocal quartet NOVIFind albums by this artist: Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist (who adds vocals on five tracks) and Janusz MychFind albums by this artist (who adds flute on one track) also participate in the recording. The original album presents eight original compositions, seven of which are composed by Milian and one is co-composed by him and Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. This expanded edition adds four tracks, recorded couple of years earlier for the Polish Radio, two of which are his original compositions, one is his arrangement of a Kurt WeilFind albums by this artist song and another is his arrangement of a Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist nocturne.
Milian, who started his career on the Polish Jazz scene about fifteen years before this album was recorded, first came into prominence as a member of several ensembles led by Krzysztof Komeda. It was Komeda who persuaded Milian to drop the piano as his main instrument and switch to the vibraphone, thus enabling him to become a member of his ensembles. Later on Milian developed a prolific international career as a vibraphonist and as a composer, being one of the best known Polish Jazz musicians outside of Poland. Many of his achievements are documented by the ongoing archival "Jerzy Milian Tapes" series released by GADFind albums on this label Records, which also released this reissue.
In retrospect this is definitely one of the most idiosyncratic albums in the Polish Jazz Series, presenting one of the first occurrences of the Polish / European Chamber Jazz, which was an amalgam of modern Classical and Cool Jazz elements with many different less audible influences, like early World Music, Free Jazz, Ambient (before it was even called that) and others. The vocal parts by Wanat are completely spine-chilling, typical of her brilliant and unique style, which was the crucial ingredients of the NOVI magnetism. It is definitely a must to all Polish Jazz enthusiasts, wherever they might be on this globe (and beyond).
This album was already reissued a decade earlier, without the bonus tracks, but the entire run of CD reissues (incomplete by the way) of the original Polish Jazz Series LPs disappeared immediately after being released. The fact that these recordings are unavailable is shameful, and a sad testimony to the fact that State owned Cultural treasures are simply being disgracefully completely wasted!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ PRETEKST
GAD 062 (Barcode: 5901549197846) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Funk Fusion
Recorded: 1974 - 1975 Released: 2017
This is an archival release of previously unreleased material recorded by the Entertainment Orchestra of the Polish Radio and TVFind albums by this artist, directed by veteran musician / composer / bandleader Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist. The orchestra was based in Katowice and most of its members were associated with the Music Academy in Katowice, which at that time did not have yet a Jazz department. The orchestra included an instrumental combo, a string section and a vocal group. It performed mostly original compositions by the orchestra members, including those by Milian. Apart from Milian on vibraphone other prominent musicians include also Jerzy JarosikFind albums by this artist on flute, brothers: Piotr PronkoFind albums by this artist on saxophone and Wojciech PronkoFind albums by this artist on bass, Piotr KaluznyFind albums by this artist on keyboards and many more. The album presents fourteen tracks on both the CD and LP version of this album and four bonus tracks are present on the CD edition only.
The music is a wide variety of instrumental Jazz oriented pieces, ranging from almost Pop, via Funk, Groove and Jazz, all of them beautifully arranged and performed by the orchestra. Although obviously on the lighter side of Jazz, the album presents superbly crafted tunes and arrangements, which lost nothing of their charm over time. The meaning of the word "entertainment" obviously meant something quite different at that time. This specific sound of the orchestra was a unique phenomenon in the history of Polish Jazz and kudos to GADFind albums on this label Records for unearthing this material and bringing it back to life. For people familiar with Polish Jazz discography, this album is a companion to the album released originally in 1975 by Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label, which features other pieces recorded at the same sessions.
For Polish Jazz enthusiasts and people interested in the Polish Funk of the 1970s this album is an absolute must. But other music lovers, who have no special ties with Polish music, might find this music fascinating nevertheless. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 29/01/2019Posted: 27/01/2018 | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ BEZ PRZESADY
GAD 085 (Barcode: 5903068120152) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 - 1976 Released: 2018
This is the second archival release of previously unissued material recorded by the Entertainment Orchestra of the Polish Radio and TVFind albums by this artist, directed by veteran musician / composer / bandleader Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist. The orchestra was based in Katowice and most of its members were associated with the Music Academy in Katowice, which at that time did not have yet a Jazz department. The orchestra included an instrumental combo, a string section and a vocal group. It performed mostly original compositions by the orchestra members, including those by Milian. Apart from Milian on vibraphone other prominent musicians include also Jerzy JarosikFind albums by this artist on flute, Piotr PronkoFind albums by this artist on saxophone, Piotr KaluznyFind albums by this artist on keyboards and many more. The album presents fourteen tracks and four bonus tracks, which follows the similar division found on the first album, in preparation for a LP edition of this album, which will include the first fourteen tracks only.
The music is a wide variety of instrumental Jazz oriented pieces, ranging from almost Pop, via Funk, Groove and Jazz, all of them beautifully arranged and performed by the orchestra. At the time these tracks were recorded Milian and the composers writing for the orchestra were interested in the "Philadelphia Sound", which is immediately obvious to a knowledgeable listener. But the Polish spicing, which is added here to the American influence produces a highly effective and more sophisticated kind of funk than the origin.
Although obviously on the lighter side of Jazz, the album presents superbly crafted tunes and arrangements, which lost nothing of their charm over time. The meaning of the word "entertainment" obviously meant something quite different at that time. This specific sound of the orchestra was a unique phenomenon in the history of Polish Jazz and kudos to GADFind albums on this label Records for unearthing this material and bringing it back to life. For people familiar with Polish Jazz discography, this album is a companion to the second album by the orchestra released originally in 1978 by Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label, which features other pieces recorded at the same sessions.
For Polish Jazz enthusiasts and people interested in the Polish Funk of the 1970s this album is an absolute must. But other music lovers, who have no special ties with Polish music, might find this music fascinating nevertheless. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | Updated: 06/02/2019Posted: 06/02/2019 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | HALINA FRACKOWIAK ~ GEIRA
GAD 095 (Barcode: 5903068120299) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2019
This is a reissue of the second album by Polish Pop / Rock vocalist Halina FrackowiakFind albums by this artist, which she recorded with the legendary Polish group SBBFind albums by this artist comprising of bassist / keyboardist Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. The omnipresent female vocal ensemble AlibabkiFind albums by this artist guests on the final track. The album presents nine original songs, all composed by Skrzek with lyrics by Julian MatejFind albums by this artist, a Polish poet who often cooperated with Skrzek.
The music presents a diverse collection of themes, which might surprise the SBB / Skrzek fan base, and which is quite different from the material he composed for the group. It is certainly more ambitious, complex and extended than what most of the Polish Pop / Rock mainstream scene was into at the time, and as a result manages to remain interesting even today, whereas most of Frackowiak contemporaries and their output are long forgotten. The album reflects Frackowiak´s modus operandi as a determined Artists, always looking to expand her horizons and deal with non-trivial material, often connected with Polish poetry, which has set her apart from other Pop performers in her country.
The sound, which is drenched in synthesizer overdose, is definitely dated, but a few guitar solos, inventive drumming and great vocal performances save the day overall and the album is an interesting, albeit a bit nostalgic trip to the history of the Polish Pop / Rock scene of the late 1970s.
For the many SBB / Skrzek fans this album is an integral part of the extended discography and a must for collectors. As usual, kudos to the GADFind albums on this label Records label for bringing this music back to life from the deep cellars of the Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label archives.
| | Updated: 17/02/2020Posted: 17/02/2020 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SKALDOWIE ~ NIE DOMYKAJMY DRZWI (EXPANDED EDITION)
KAMELEON 12 ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2012
This is the twelfth album by the legendary Polish group SkaldowieFind albums by this artist, one of the most influential East European ensembles, founded by brothers: Andrzej ZielinskiFind albums by this artist and Jacek ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, multi-instrumentalist). This album is the first recording by the group, which does not feature the group´s leader Andrzej Zielinski, who at the time was resident in the USA. The other group members on this album are: keyboardist Grzegorz GorkiewiczFind albums by this artist, guitarist Jerzy TarsinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist / vocalist Konrad RatynskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Wiktor KierzkowskiFind albums by this artist.
This album was recorded in autumn 1988, almost nine years after the group recorded their previous album. Poland went through dramatic political upheavals during the 1980s, including the Martial Law period and strikes led by the Solidarity movement. When the Martial Law was declared the group was touring the USA and they decided to stay there until the situation clears. Gradually they returned to Poland, with Andrzej Zielinski delaying his return for longest. Those members who returned decided to re-activate the group in 1987, which eventually led to the recording of this album. With the absence of Andrzej Zielinski the composing duties fell upon Jacek Zielinski and Konrad Ratynski, and they added a keyboardist to retain the traditional keyboard oriented sound.
Musically the album pretty much continues the musical tradition of the original group, with strong melodies and elegant arrangements. Although an attempt was made to use self-penned lyrics, eventually the decision to return to lyrics written by Polish poets was made. Although the album does suffer a bit from the dreaded synthesizer sound of the 1980s, it is overall quite impressive, especially due to the superb songwriting. Re-activating the group after almost a decade long break and without its leader was a very bold step, which in retrospect worked way beyond the initial expectations.
This album was the last release by the group on the state owned Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label label and their last recording before the Socialist regime in Poland gave way to the democratic Third Republic. Unfortunately it was also the last album for over a decade and a half before the group started to record again the mid-2000.
This edition adds seven bonus tracks, all of which are radio versions of the songs present on the original album. This is an important document of Polish Rock history and a must have for every Polish music fan. Most of the music stands the test of time quite well and is definitely worth revisiting.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | SKALDOWIE ~ PASTORALKI
KAMELEON 16 ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1967 - 1992 Released: 2013
This album by the legendary Polish group SkaldowieFind albums by this artist, founded by brothers: Andrzej ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, keyboardist, composer, arranger and leader) and Jacek ZielinskiFind albums by this artist (vocalist, multi-instrumentalist) collects their recordings for the Polish Radio and TV, which were seasonal Christmas songs. Of course these were not traditional Christmas carols, but original songs composed by Andrzej Zielinski with text by the poet Ernest BryllFind albums by this artist. They span mostly the early days of the group between 1967 and 1972, except for three songs recorded much later.
Most of these songs were never previously released on records, except for four of them, which were released as the EP called "PastoralkiFind albums with this title" by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label. Two of the songs feature female vocalists: Maryla RodowiczFind albums by this artist and Lucja PrusFind albums by this artist. Some of the songs appear here more than once in different versions. These songs show again the superb diversity of the group, which was up for any challenge they were presented with, always showing their upper hand. They include many superb melodies, some quite intricate and of course all are executed perfectly.
The fans of the group will find this album as an integral part of their legacy, but otherwise it has only a marginal importance as far as Polish popular music is concerned. Nevertheless that fabulous late 1960s / early 1970s sound is simply irresistible. Worth investigation!
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  | NURT ~ NURT
KAMELEON 27 ~ POLAND ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2013
This is the criminally long-overdue reissue of the only album recorded by the legendary Polish Rock group NurtFind albums by this artist. Founded in Wroclaw in 1970 by guitarist / vocalist / composer Aleksander MrozekFind albums by this artist, it also included bassist Kazimierz CwynarFind albums by this artist, drummer Ryszard SrokaFind albums by this artist and vocalist Waldemar DomagalaFind albums by this artist. By the end of 1971 Domagala was replaced by Roman RunowiczFind albums by this artist, who was previously a member of the no less legendary group Romuald I RomanFind albums by this artist. The group performed extensively in the early 1970s but managed to record only one eponymous studio album in 1972 for the State owned MuzaFind albums on this label label and several Radio recording sessions, which are now available on a companion CD to this reissue.
In retrospect it is clear that Nurt were surely one of the top Polish Rock acts in the early 1970, surely as good as NiemenFind albums by this artist, SBBFind albums by this artist and BreakoutFind albums by this artist and in many respects even more adventurous. Their music amalgamated some Blues influences, but basically was all about early Hard Rock, Psychedelia and early Jazz-Rock Fusion. The fact that Polish Jazz legend, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, participates on the album´s extended central composition, which incorporates Free Jazz passages, speaks for itself. Stanko´s contributions are of course nothing short of spectacular. The excellent lyrics by their resident writer Andrzej KuryloFind albums by this artist were another aspect of the group´s high quality output.
The album is full of great instrumental passages by the lead guitar, accompanied by the unique sound of the fuzz bass guitar, which gave the group a sound unlike any of their contemporaries, and superb dynamic drumming. The album is not much different from the best efforts by groups active at the time in Western Europe or USA. In spite of the fact that this music was recorded about four decades ago, it is still full of that magic that characterized that period and its music. It lost absolutely nothing of its charm over time.
Remastered and with informational liner noted based on the memories of the band members, this is a proper tribute to a legend, which should not be forgotten. These memories tell a tale of how this music was created against all odds: censorship, animosity and oppression of the Socialist Regime and its bureaucracy - a miracle by all means. Kudos to the KameleonFind albums on this label label for bringing this music back to circulation.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NURT ~ THE COMPLETE RADIO SESSIONS 1972-1974
KAMELEON 28 ~ POLAND ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1972 - 1974 Released: 2013
This album collects all the material recorded for the Polish Radio by the legendary Polish Rock group NurtFind albums by this artist. Founded in Wroclaw in 1970 by guitarist / vocalist / composer Aleksander MrozekFind albums by this artist, it also included bassist Kazimierz CwynarFind albums by this artist, drummer Ryszard SrokaFind albums by this artist and vocalist Waldemar DomagalaFind albums by this artist. By the end of 1971 Domagala was replaced by Roman RunowiczFind albums by this artist, who was previously a member of the no less legendary group Romuald I RomanFind albums by this artist. The group performed extensively in the early 1970s but managed to record only one eponymous studio album in 1972 for the State owned MuzaFind albums on this label label, which is now available on a companion CD to this release, and two Polish Radio recording sessions: one before the recording of the album (February 1972) and the other over two years later (May 1974), both present herein.
In retrospect it is clear that Nurt were surely one of the top Polish Rock acts in the early 1970, surely as good as NiemenFind albums by this artist, SBBFind albums by this artist and BreakoutFind albums by this artist and in many respects even more adventurous. Their music amalgamated some Blues influences, but basically was all about early Hard Rock, Psychedelia and early Jazz-Rock Fusion. The fact that Polish Jazz legend, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, participates on the studio album and other Jazz musicians take part in these sessions speaks for itself. The excellent lyrics by their resident writer Andrzej KuryloFind albums by this artist were another aspect of the group´s high quality output.
The album is full of great instrumental passages by the lead guitar, accompanied by the unique sound of the fuzz bass guitar, which gave the group a sound unlike any of their contemporaries, and superb dynamic drumming. The circumstances surrounding these Radio sessions were much more relaxed than the studio album recording sessions, and therefore the music presented here is much more similar to how the band sounded on stage at the time. The first session includes six tracks, which were later included on the studio album, and one mostly improvised piece that was not included on the album. The second session includes material composed later, after the album was recorded.
Remastered and with informational liner noted based on the memories of the band members, this is a proper tribute to a legend, which should not be forgotten. These memories tell a tale of how this music was created against all odds: censorship, animosity and oppression of the Socialist Regime and its bureaucracy - a miracle by all means. Kudos to the KameleonFind albums on this label label for bringing this music back to circulation.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | NOVI ~ BOSSA NOVA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.13)
MUZA 0913 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2004
This is a reissue of the debut album by the sensational vocal quartet NOVIFind albums by this artist, which was one of the greatest Polish Jazz acts in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Continuing the tradition of Jazz vocalese groups like the French Les Double SixFind albums by this artist and The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist, NOVI expanded the borders further on into more experimental areas and used more instrumental backing, provided the best Polish Jazz musicians at the time.
The quartet was led by singer / arranger / composer Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist and included also the incredible female vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and two additional male vocalists Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. All the singers were also capable instrumentalists. Together they created beautiful vocal harmonies of exceptional sophistication and unique style, unparalleled to this day.
On this album they performed all original material composed by Kawka, Mych and Parzynski, with Kawka responsible for six of the fourteen tunes and the incredible arrangements turning everything into a distinctive NOVI vocal signature. This is definitely one of the most unique Polish Jazz ensembles and an absolute must for every vocal jazz connoisseur!
| | Updated: 13/10/2016Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ TWET (POLISH JAZZ VOL.39)
MUZA 0939 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2004
This monumental album by Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist in one of the most important releases on the legendary Polish Jazz series, which means it´s a truly stellar performance. It captures perfectly the soul of Stanko´s 1970s Free Jazz period, which culminated just a year later with the recording of the legendary "BalladynaFind albums with this title" album for ECMFind albums on this label, in almost identical lineup. Similarly to his Mentor, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, Stanko always tried to work with musicians from other countries, even when the bureaucracy of the Socialist regime made it quite difficult. Like Komeda before him, he worked with musicians from the neighbor Scandinavian countries, finding a close friend and partner in the free-spirited Finnish legendary drummer Edward VesalaFind albums by this artist. Young Polish saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist was given the position previously held by such giant musicians as Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, which testifies to Stanko´s high confidence in him. The quartet was completed by the great American bassist Peter WarrenFind albums by this artist, who lived at the time in Europe and participated actively in the incredible European Jazz scene of that period. The album includes five pieces, credited to all four musicians and obviously largely improvised, with some limited preconceived melody lines barely audible under the surface. The unedited, "live in the studio" recording perfectly reflects the atmosphere of the session, with Free blowing and intense interplays, enthusiastically encouraged by Vesala´s howls and cries in the background. This is definitely a magic moment, captured for posterity on this recording, which has very few parallels, and therefore is so incredibly important. Stanko´s fans will of course find plenty of his superb trumpet performances here, which are second to none. Any European Jazz connoisseur, Polish Jazz enthusiast or Stanko aficionado must absolutely have this album!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | VISTULA RIVER BRASS BAND ~ ENTERTAINER (POLISH JAZZ VOL.51)
MUZA 0951 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004
This album by veteran ensemble Vistula River Brass BandFind albums by this artist presents the versatility of the Polish Jazz scene, which at all times presented the entire scope of Jazz music, from Ragtime to Avant-Grade, all of them on a very high artistic level. The ensemble was formed in the late 1960s by drummer Jerzy WieckowskiFind albums by this artist, who remained the leader for many years. They were basically an amateur ensemble, as most of the nine members had regular jobs, but they played like pros, winning many traditional Jazz competitions and recording two albums for the Polish Jazz series, of which this is the first. Stylistically they remained close to the very early days of Jazz, playing mostly music associated with New Orleans and Chicago in early 20th Century. The material on this album comprises only of standards, except for the bonus track, which was composed by the pianist of the band Jerzy ZebrowskiFind albums by this artist. The level of performance is absolutely excellent all the way through and every Jazz fan should be able to enjoy this music for what it stands for: quality and fun! Recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | WARSAW STOMPERS ~ WARSAW STOMPERS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.01)
MUZA 1001 (Barcode: 5907783420016) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1959 - 1964 Released: 2008
This album presents a series of recordings made by the polish traditional Jazz ensemble Warsaw StompersFind albums by this artist (earlier called New Orleans StompersFind albums by this artist), which was one of the first and certainly the best of its kind. Led by the excellent trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Mieczyslaw WadeckiFind albums by this artist the ensemble changed the membership over the years and included in its ranks some of the best future Polish Jazz musicians like saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Wlodek GulgowskiFind albums by this artist.
The traditionalists vs. modernist Jazz War raged in Poland in the 1950s similarly to what happened all over Europe at the time with the New Orleans revival emerging as a counterforce of the new Bebop and beyond. However, beyond the heated discussions running into the wee hours of the night between the opponents, Jazz as music coexisted peacefully, resulting in outstanding results in both fields. The Warsaw Stompers played an all original programme, which is quite remarkable for the time, again emphasizing the deep involvement of the Polish scene with the Jazz tradition, which started even before the WWII.
The level of the compositions as well as the performance is truly stellar and anybody who loves traditional Jazz should be able to enjoy this music to the fullest. Highly recommended!
Side Note: Although some Polish Jazz albums were recorded and released in Poland before this album, it marks the very beginning of the legendary Polish Jazz series, which over the years documented the development of the Polish scene and resulted in total 76 releases, which in retrospect include some of the best European Jazz recorded beyond the Iron Curtain. The Polish Jazz LPs and CDs are highly collectable and many fans all over the world try to complete the collection, which is not an easy task these days. The CD reissues (called Polish Jazz Deluxe) expanded the original series with some 20 additional titles, which somehow missed the original series at the time but belong to be a part of it in retrospect.
| | Updated: 08/07/2020Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | RAGTIME JAZZ BAND ~ RAGTIME JAZZ BAND (POLISH JAZZ VOL.07)
MUZA 1007 (Barcode: 5907783420078) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966 Released: 2006
The Traditional Jazz (a.k.a. Trad) is a term describing several Jazz sub-genres, which were stylistically developed mostly in the early 20th Century, and includes a plethora of quite distinct types of music including Ragtime, New Orleans, Dixieland and others. With the development of modern Jazz in the 1950s, a parallel movement of "returning to the roots" swept the Jazz world and a plethora of Trad groups appeared everywhere, including of course the lively Polish Jazz scene. Trad was especially popular with Polish students, and most Polish Trad group originated in the various Universities around the country. Ragtime Jazz BandFind albums by this artist, formed by cornet player Wladyslaw DobrowolskiFind albums by this artist in 1962, comprised of student from Warsaw. The septet lineup crystallized rapidly and the group gained popularity first around Poland and later also abroad. It was considered as one of the best Trad bands on the Polish scene and this is their only album. The group managed to enlist the help of excellent Swedish trumpeter Hans CarlingFind albums by this artist, turning the group into an octet for most of the tracks included on the album. The music is all original, composed by the group´s members and is absolutely brilliant from start to finish, definitely as good as any such music played at the time around the world. In retrospect it´s a real gem and a proud evidence of how good the Polish Jazz scene was at the time. Recommended!
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  | WLODZIMIERZ NAHORNY ~ HEART (POLISH JAZZ VOL.15)
MUZA 1015 (Barcode: 5907783420153) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1967 Released: 2005
This incredible album presents a trio recording by virtuoso Polish saxophonist / pianist / composer Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist with bassist Jacek OstaszewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Sergiusz PerkowskiFind albums by this artist. Definitely one of the earliest examples of European Free Jazz, and the first Polish Free Jazz album in the full sense of the genre, it is amazing that such album was released in Socialist Poland in the midst of the country´s darkest political age. Although based on short melodic themes, the music is adventurous and pioneering in every sense and as groundbreaking as any similar recordings made at the time in US or Western Europe. The level of virtuosity and interplay demonstrated by the musicians is breathtaking and the overall musical content is stunning. Nahorny plays also piano on some of the tracks and his performance is no less virtuosic, lyrical and melodic in contrast to his free saxophone excursions. Nahorny is also known for his association with the great Polish group BreakoutFind albums by this artist, as being the first Polish Jazz musician to cooperate with Rock musicians. This is an absolute must for all lovers of Polish / European Jazz and a great piece of Jazz history!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ BAZAAR (POLISH JAZZ VOL.17)
MUZA 1017 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2005
This is the debut album by veteran Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, one of the godfathers of modern Jazz in Poland. Milian started to play in the 1950s and was a member of the legendary sextet led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, who persuaded him to move from piano to vibraphone. In time Milian became one of the top vibraphone players in Europe as well as an excellent composer with highly personal style.
His music was always quite sophisticated and unusual, quite ahead of its time. The early Komeda influence was replaced later on by his own original compositional direction, which flirted with Cool, Third Stream, contemporary Classical and World Music. This album presents eight of his original compositions (one co-composed with Komeda) performed by a trio, which includes bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz GierlowskiFind albums by this artist. Two members of the legendary Polish vocal group NOVIFind albums by this artist: vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and flautist Janusz MychFind albums by this artist also participate.
This is a splendid example of European Jazz, which was rapidly developing in Eastern Europe by late 1960s and which still sounds great regardless half a century later. Highly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF SADOWSKI ~ AND HIS HAMMOND ORGAN (POLISH JAZZ VOL.21)
MUZA 1021 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2006
This is the first album on the legendary Polish Jazz series, which is dedicated to the Hammond organ, the godfather of the electronic keyboards and probably the most significant new instrument, which dominated Jazz and Progressive Rock in the late 1960s and early 1970s (although available since the 1930s). Keyboardist Krzysztof SadowskiFind albums by this artist belongs to the first post WWII generation of Polish Jazz musicians, debuting in the 1950s and active on the local scene for many years. He combined his love of Jazz and Rock, playing with the leading ensembles of both genres with equal dedication and success. This album presents his Hammond organ performances in two different environments: Side A of the original LP captures him accompanied just by drummer Andrzej DabrowskiFind albums by this artist and the duo moves through a Rocky set, which includes a BeatlesFind albums by this artist medley. Side B finds him accompanied by the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by saxophonist / composer Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and featuring top Polish Jazz players, among them saxophonist Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist, drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and many others. This set is much closer to Jazz and features a beautiful version of Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist´s ballad from "Rosemary´s Baby".
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  | STODOLA BIG BAND ~ LET`S SWING AGAIN (POLISH JAZZ VOL.28)
MUZA 1028 (Barcode: 5907783420283) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2006
This is the only album by the Polish Stodola Big BandFind albums by this artist, one of the relatively few Big Bands active in that country over the years. The logistic and economic complexity of sustaining a working Big Band without continuous and frequent performing opportunities is simply to much in most cases anywhere in the world, and even more so in a country under a Socialist regime, where Jazz opportunities were limited. The fact that this Big Band managed to exist for several years and make this album is a rare treat indeed. The band was conceived and founded by the veteran Polish Jazz trumpeter / composer Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, who managed to enlist some of the best Jazz players on the local scene, such as saxophonists / composers Janusz ZabieglinskiFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist. The band was named after the Warsaw´s Jazz club Stodola, which was the bastion of traditional Jazz in Poland for many years. They played a very original brand of Swing, based on the American tradition, but much more adventurous as far as the compositions and improvisations are concerned. Of the eleven tracks on this album only two are standards and the rest are originals, mostly composed by Zabieglinski, Jaremko and Majewski. In retrospect the music lost nothing of its swing and freshness and is a great document of the era. Big Band fans will love this stuff!
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  | MICHAL URBANIAK / CONSTELLATION ~ IN CONCERT (POLISH JAZZ VOL.36)
MUZA 1036 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2005
This is a reissue of the second album on the legendary "Polish Jazz" series by the Polish saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. A veteran Polish Jazz musician, Urbaniak was a member of the legendary ensembles led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, where he played the saxophone, but by the early 1970 he switched to the violin and plunged into Jazz-Rock Fusion, rapidly becoming one of the most inventive and creative pioneers of the genre.
This album and the albums recorded in Germany and later in the USA are absolute Fusion milestones, but also stand out as completely unique in their approach to the genre. Urbaniak combined the marvelous abilities of his wife Urszula DudziakFind albums by this artist and her extraordinary and experimental vocalese technique with his common usage of Polish Folklore motifs, creating a superb and completely unparalleled Fusion music.
This live recording captures his baseless / double keyboard ensemble, which also includes organist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The music, all composed by Urbaniak, is simply out of this world, brilliant and fresh, absolutely resistant to the tides of time and fashion. In retrospect one can only regret that Fusion followed mostly the direction of flashy virtuosic display of neck-breaking guitar races rather than the direction proposed by Urbaniak´s Fusion, but it´s unfortunately too late now. At least we can savor this music, 40 years after it was recorded, well aged and beautifully eternal. A must!
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI / WOJCIECH KAROLAK ~ MAINSTREAM (POLISH JAZZ VOL.40)
MUZA 1040 (Barcode: 5907783420405) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2007
This album presents a meeting between two Polish Jazz veterans: saxophonist / composer Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist and keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist. The two cooperated in various Jazz ensembles since the late 1950s and until mid 1960s and this album marks their reunion in the studio after several years of not playing together due to Karolak´s residence in Sweden in the late 1960s / early 1970s. The two are joined by another veteran, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, and excellent guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist and together they play six tunes, five of which are standards and one id a Wroblewski original. Karolak plays the Hammond Organ, a sound that would be associated with him for his entire future career, and his passion fro that instrument is clearly evident here. Wroblewski and Blizinski play fire solos and Bartkowski drives the quartet forward at all times. Although typically mainstream, this is still great Jazz, performed with passion and considerable talent, which should be enjoyable to all Jazz connoisseurs. Recommended!
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  | ADAM MAKOWICZ ~ LIVE EMBERS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.43)
MUZA 1043 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2005
This is the 2nd album in the legendary Polish Jazz series by the brilliant Polish pianist / composer Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, his first solo piano recording (a format he loves very much as documented in future recordings) and the first solo piano album in the entire series. By the time this album was recorded, Makowicz was the top piano Player on the local scene and one of the best European Jazz pianists. In the late 1970s Makowicz left Poland and settled in USA, like several other Polish Jazz players, escaping the socialist regime. His wonderful musicality, deep lyricism and typical European way to combine the Jazz tradition with the European Classical tradition (mainly Romanticism) make him a unique voice, which is always worth listening to. On this album he performs mainly his own wonderful music, spiced by his interpretation of a couple of Scott JoplinFind albums by this artist and John ColtraneFind albums by this artist tunes. This is a brilliant album and a must for Jazz piano lovers. Highly recommended!
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  | BIG BAND KATOWICE ~ MUSIC FOR MY FRIENDS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.52)
MUZA 1052 (Barcode: 5907783420528) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2007
Katowice, the Capital of Upper Silesia - Poland´s industrial region, was very important to the development of the Polish Jazz scene due to the fact that the local Music Academy was the first and for many years the only higher educational facility teaching a Jazz programme which awarded a degree in Music. The highly dedicated faculty and stuff directed generation after generation of young Polish musicians towards a career in Jazz music and in time the majority of the local Jazz scene was indeed a collection of the Katowice Music Academy alumni, the names of which are simply too numerous to mention. This phenomenon emphasizes the crucial importance of music education and its contribution to Culture. This album presents a Jazz Big Band led by trumpeter / composer Zbigniew KalembaFind albums by this artist and comprising of the students of the Katowice Music Academy and guest soloists, some of which were ex-students, such as guitarist Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist, pianist Wladyslaw SendeckiFind albums by this artist and many others. They perform eight compositions, five of which are originals and three standards, all beautifully arranged and passionately performed. The majority of the music has a distinct Jazz-Rock Fusion feel, which is not surprising as the genre ruled the local scene in the late 1970s. Since the Polish Jazz series includes only a handful of Big Band recordings, this is a most valuable addition to the overall presentation of the Polish Jazz scene. Warmly recommended!
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  | JANUSZ MUNIAK ~ QUESTION MARK (POLISH JAZZ VOL.54)
MUZA 1054 (Barcode: 5907783420542) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2007
This is the debut album as a leader by the great Polish saxophonist / composer Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, one of the forefathers of modern Polish Jazz. His legacy includes the membership in such legendary Polish ensembles as those led by Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist as well as leading his own groups. He is accompanied here by his quintet, which includes pianist Pawel PerlinskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Andrzej DechnikFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy BezuchaFind albums by this artist, all excellent players themselves. Muniak has a completely unique, natural style of improvisation, which is passionate and highly expressive, putting him somewhat aside in a class of his own besides the other distinguished Polish saxophonists, like Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist for example. His compositions incorporate beautifully Polish folklore and the Jazz tradition, often unintentionally, but always brilliantly. This is on of the strongest albums in the legendary Polish Jazz series, which is a very high distinction by any standard. This is a must to lovers of Polish and Eastern-European Jazz and a timeless masterpiece.
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  | STANISLAW SOJKA ~ BLUBLULA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.63)
MUZA 1063 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2005
This is the 2nd album by the excellent Polish Jazz vocalist Stanislaw SojkaFind albums by this artist, who dominated the male vocal spot on the local scene since the early 1980s and is still very much active today. Always in the gray area between Jazz, Gospel, Blues, Rhythm And Blues and even Pop, Sojka is a first rate interpreter and lately also composer. His live performances are legendary and his versatility is awe inspiring. This early album finds him in a superb company of top Polish Jazz players: pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and veteran drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, a fantastic trio by any standard. He performs eight Jazz standards, but performed with flare and outstanding originality, using scat singing, playing with words and other improvisational techniques. This is a breathtaking performance, from start to finish, which every Jazz fan should be exposed to at some point. An absolute must!
| | Updated: 08/05/2023Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EWA BEM ~ BE A MAN (POLISH JAZZ VOL.65)
MUZA 1065 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2006
This is the 2nd album by the excellent Polish Jazz vocalist Ewa BemFind albums by this artist, who dominated the female vocals spot in her country in the late 1970s and 1980s and is still active today. The five songs, which were included on side A of the vinyl LP are standards, which she sings in English and the six songs on side B of the vinyl LP are all originals, written especially for her, which she sings in Polish. She is accompanied by a wonderful octet, called Swing SessionFind albums by this artist, led by Polish Jazz icon, trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, who also wrote the wonderful arrangements. The octet members include also reedmen Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, trombonist Zbigniew KonopczynskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Henryk StefanskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy StwarzFind albums by this artist and drummer Tadeusz FederowskiFind albums by this artist. Male vocalist Zbigniew WodeckiFind albums by this artist guests on two songs and three songs have also string arrangements. Whatever Bem misses as a virtuoso vocalist, she fully compensates by her wonderfully warm tone and exceptional musicality. Her interpretation and delivery are first-rate and she is definitely a world-class performer. Although pretty mainstream, this music is done with elegance and taste, which is why it stands the test of time wonderfully. Warmly recommended to fans of female Jazz vocals!
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  | WOJCIECH KAMINSKI ~ OPEN PIANO (POLISH JAZZ VOL.66)
MUZA 1066 (Barcode: 5907783420665) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2006
This album by veteran pianist / composer Wojciech KaminskiFind albums by this artist presents the versatility of the Polish Jazz scene, which at all times presented the entire scope of Jazz music, from Ragtime to Avant-Grade, all of them on a very high artistic level. Kaminski was active on the local scene mainly in the traditional Jazz circles, co-founding such splendid ensembles as Ragtime Jazz BandFind albums by this artist and Old TimersFind albums by this artist. He felt most comfortable playing Jazz, which ranges from Ragtime, through Dixieland and into Swing and selected some of the absolutely best local players at the time to accompany him on this album: trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist, trombonist Zbigniew KonopczynskiFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, Janusz ZabieglinskiFind albums by this artist and Wladyslaw HalikFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Janusz KozlowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist. Kaminski composed five of the ten compositions on this album (the remaining five include four standards and one composition by Zabieglinski). The level of performance is absolutely excellent all the way through and every Jazz fan should be able to enjoy this music for what it stands for: quality and fun! Recommended!
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  | LORA SZAFRAN ~ LONESOME DANCER (POLISH JAZZ VOL.76)
MUZA 1076 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2006
This is the excellent debut album by female Polish Jazz vocalist Lora SzafranFind albums by this artist, the best new arrival on the local scene in the 1980s in the vocal department. She was blessed with great musicality, versatility and superb vocal abilities, which are rare and precious. On this album she is accompanied by an exceptional quartet called New PresentationFind albums by this artist, consisting of the best young Polish Jazz musicians at the time: pianist / composer / leader Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist, his brother bassist Jacek NiedzielaFind albums by this artist, drummer Adam CzerwinskiFind albums by this artist and the excellent trumpeter Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist. Together they perform nine songs, two of which were composed by Wojciech Niedziela, two others are by other Polish composers and the rest are Jazz standards. The overall level of performance is truly excellent from start to finish and for people who love mainstream Jazz delivered with taste and virtuosity, this is a must.
Side Note: This is the last album released under the "Polish Jazz" series, and as the volume number suggests the entire series consists of 76 albums released between mid-1960s and late 1980s. Some of the best European Jazz ever recorded can be found in this exceptional collection of recordings, which is often collected by Jazz fans around the world. A giant Box Set with all the 76 albums in mini-sleeve replicas would be a "dream come true" for true lovers of Polish Jazz. Hopefully soon!
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | WOJCIECH KAROLAK ~ EASY! (POLISH JAZZ VOL.81 DELUXE)
MUZA 1081 (Barcode: 5907783420818) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2005
This relatively little known but excellent album presents Polish Jazz keyboardist / composer / arranger / bandleader Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist in a relaxed atmosphere and in company of the crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz musicians of the period that he cooperated with on many occasions before. The idea was to present a less complex / sophisticated music performed by top Jazz players, but in retrospect the result surely surpassed all the intensions and expectations and this is definitely some of the best of his work. Recorded at a time when the Jazz-Rock Fusion in Poland was rapidly developing and achieving the peak of its creativity, spearheaded by Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and his group, of which Karolak was a member. It is hardly surprising therefore that this album includes many of the characteristics of the early 1970s Polish Fusion, which of course in term was strongly influenced by the pioneering and groundbreaking work done by Miles DavisFind albums by this artist at the time, which served as a model to the entire worldwide music community. Although perhaps more melodic than the Urbaniak´s recordings, this album has plenty of innovative moves, like the usage of early synthesizers, electric piano and of course his organ, excellent brass arrangements on some tunes and superb soloing by the musicians involved, which include trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and many others. Karolak composed seven of the eight tracks on this album with one track being contributed by the great Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. Lovers of Polish Jazz should be rejoiced by the fact that this album was reissued as part of the extended legendary Polish Jazz series. A must!
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  | NOVI ~ RIEN NE VA PLUS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.82 DELUXE)
MUZA 1082 (Barcode: 5907783420825) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2005
This is a reissue of the fourth album by the sensational vocal quartet NOVIFind albums by this artist, which was one of the greatest Polish Jazz acts in the 1970s. Continuing the tradition of Jazz vocal groups like the French Les Double SixFind albums by this artist and The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist, NOVI expanded the borders further on into more experimental areas and used more instrumental backing, provided the best Polish Jazz musicians at the time.
The quartet was led by singer / arranger / composer Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist and included also the incredible female vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and two additional male vocalists Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. Together they created beautiful vocal harmonies of exceptional sophistication and unique style, unparalleled to this day. The performed a mixture of original material, mostly composed by Kawka, and standards or contemporary Pop material, but the incredible arrangements turned everything into a distinctive NOVI vocal signature.
On this specific album they are accompanied by an all-star band, led by saxophonist Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist, which includes such luminaries as saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and many others. This is definitely one of the climax moments of the Polish Jazz in the 1970s and an absolute must for every vocal jazz connoisseur!
Side Note: This is one of those Polish Jazz albums, released by the Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label label, which should have been released as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series at the time, but somehow never made it. From the historic perspective it definitely deserved to be a part of that series and this was partially corrected by this edition, as it is one of the items in the expanded "Polish Jazz Deluxe" series of reissues.
| | Updated: 13/10/2016Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TOMASZ SZUKALSKI ~ TINA KAMILA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.83 DELUXE)
MUZA 1083 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2005
This wonderful album is the debut recording as a leader by Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, one of the veterans of the local scene. Although Szukalski has been active on the scene for many years and participated in many recordings, the opportunity to make an album under his own name came only relatively late in his career path. This album is quite a surprise in many respects, as it presents Szukalski playing Jazz standards accompanied by the Grand Standard Orchestra led and conducted by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. His tenor sounds absolutely marvelous against the orchestra´s strings and the album is one of the most beautifully melodic Polish Jazz releases. Stylistically the album resembles similar sax and strings recordings, such as those by Ben WebsterFind albums by this artist for example, and Szukalski´s virtuosity and incredible feel easily match those of the legendary Jazz Masters. He is accompanied by a great rhythm section with pianist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Darek OleszkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The music comprises mostly of Jazz standards, but includes also compositions by Polish Jazz composers like Karolak, Wroblewski, Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and one tune by the Szukalski himself. In retrospect this album lost nothing of its power and intrinsic beauty, and any Jazz lover in the world should be able to enjoy it wholeheartedly. Brilliant stuff!
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  | EWA BEM ~ LOVES THE BEATLES (POLISH JAZZ VOL.84 DELUXE)
MUZA 1084 (Barcode: 5907783420849) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2005
This is quite an unusual album on which Polish Jazz singer Ewa BemFind albums by this artist undertakes the difficult task of interpreting twelve songs by the BeatlesFind albums by this artist, a concept which usually very quickly turns into a disaster. However, this time the result is quite surprising, with the original songs being arranged often very faraway from their original form, rhythm and atmosphere, which is actually quite interesting and certainly shows a lot of potential. Bem’s vocal qualities are beyond reproach and she is supported by an excellent team of the best Polish players, like saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, trumpeter Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist and many others, which contributes significantly to the overall result. In retrospect the use of synthesizers, which is the dreaded trademark of the 1980s, sounds pretty dated today, but that unfortunately can’t be helped. It is certainly interesting to revisit this album to get a fresh perspective as to what can be done with Pop material in the Jazz sphere. Worth investigating!
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  | ALBER-STROBEL ~ HENRYK ALBER & JANUSZ STROBEL (POLISH JAZZ VOL.85 DELUXE)
MUZA 1085 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2006
This is the debut album by Polish acoustic guitar duo Alber-StrobelFind albums by this artist with guitarists / composers Henryk AlberFind albums by this artist and Janusz StrobelFind albums by this artist. The duo was quite an unusual phenomenon on the Polish Jazz scene, as they opted for playing in the intimate duet format and completely acoustically, whereas most guitarists opted of course for the electric version of the instrument. They played a mixture of original compositions and well known, mostly Brazilian pieces, composed by the best Brazilian composers. The elaborate arrangements and obvious virtuosic performances make this album an obvious choice for listeners, who love the acoustic guitar and South American flavor in music. Although only marginally Jazz per se, the element of improvisation is very strongly present here and it is one of the earliest examples of Polish Jazz-World Fusion. Definitely worth investigation!
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  | ALBER-STROBEL ~ DUET GITAR KLASYCZNYCH (POLISH JAZZ VOL.86 DELUXE)
MUZA 1086 (Barcode: 5907783420863) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion
Recorded: 1981 Released: 2008
This is the second album by Polish acoustic guitar duo Alber-StrobelFind albums by this artist with guitarists / composers Henryk AlberFind albums by this artist and Janusz StrobelFind albums by this artist recorded a decade after their debut. Years of experience playing together and the process of growing up turned them into a formidable musical unit and this album, although quite similar in spirit to their debut, is much more tight, elaborate and simply brilliant. The material is mostly original on this album, again in contrast to the debut, which was mostly Brazilian music. The duo was quite an unusual phenomenon on the Polish Jazz scene, as they opted for playing in the intimate duet format and completely acoustically, whereas most guitarists opted of course for the electric version of the instrument. They played a mixture of original compositions and well known, mostly Brazilian pieces, composed by the best Brazilian composers. The elaborate arrangements and obvious virtuosic performances make this album an obvious choice for listeners, who love the acoustic guitar and South American flavor in music. Although only marginally Jazz per se, the element of improvisation is very strongly present here and it is one of the best examples of Polish Jazz-World Fusion. Definitely worth investigation and a must for guitar lovers!
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  | NOVI ~ TORPEDO (POLISH JAZZ VOL.87 DELUXE)
MUZA 1087 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2006
This is a reissue of the second album by the seminal vocal group NOVIFind albums by this artist, one of the most acclaimed Polish Jazz acts in the 1960s and 1970s, and one of the most influential vocal ensembles of all times. Led by the charismatic vocalist / composer / arranger Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist, the group also included the sensational female vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist and two more male vocalists / composers / arrangers: Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. Following the formula set by their sensational debut album, they perform original music composed and arranged by Kawka, Mych and Parzynski (except for one Classical piece).
The vocal quartet is accompanied by a superb instrumental team, which includes some of the best Polish Jazz musicians at the time, including pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist and many others, as well as the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist, led by Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. The rich instrumental arrangements were one of the differences between NOVI and the earlier European Jazz vocal ensembles like Les Double SixFind albums by this artist or The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist.
This album, as all early recordings by NOVI, is absolutely immune to the tides of time and sounds today as magnificent as it was at the time of its recording. NOVI definitely left a mark on the Jazz vocal idiom, setting an incredibly high standard, which sadly was later on followed by only very few similar ensembles.
Side Note: This is one of those Polish Jazz albums, released by the Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label label, which should have been released as part of the legendary "Polish Jazz" series at the time, but somehow never made it. From the historic perspective it definitely deserved to be a part of that series and this was partially corrected by this edition, as it is one of the items in the expanded "Polish Jazz Deluxe" series of reissues.
| | Updated: 13/10/2016Posted: 13/10/2016 | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ MILIANALIA (POLISH JAZZ VOL.88 DELUXE)
MUZA 1088 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2003 Released: 2006
This is a beautiful solo album by the virtuoso Polish vibraphonist / composer Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist, one of the godfathers of modern Jazz in Poland, which was recorded to celebrate his 70th Birthday. Milian started to play in the 1950s and was a member of the legendary sextet led by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, who persuaded him to move from piano to vibraphone. In time Milian became one of the top vibraphone players in Europe as well as an excellent composer with highly personal style. His music was always quite sophisticated and unusual, quite ahead of its time. The early Komeda influence was replaced later on by his own original compositional direction, which flirted with Cool, Third Stream, contemporary Classical and World Music. This album presents eight of his original compositions performed solo on a variety of instruments including vibraphone, marimba and various percussion and string instruments. Not an easy listen, this music requires attentive listening and concentration, since the melodic motifs are quite elusive at times. But altogether this is a charming album, which I enjoy listening to very much. Highly recommended!
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  | KAROLAK / SZUKALSKI / BARTKOWSKI ~ TIME KILLERS (POLISH JAZZ VOL.89 DELUXE)
MUZA 1089 (Barcode: 5907783420894) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2006
This is the only album by Polish Jazz supergroup Karolak / Szukalski / BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, which united three veterans of the local scene: keyboardist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, who wrote and arranged all the music included on this album, saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The album has a very unique sound due to the unusual instrumentation, as well as a superb groove, which is usually associated with American recordings. Karolak performs the difficult task of both soloing and accompanying his partners, using the organ bass pedals to supply the bass parts. Szukalski again proves his excellent taste and technical abilities, especially on the track where he plays the baritone sax. Bartkowski is stable like a rock and drives the music forward constantly, with his usual virtuosity. This music sounds remarkably fresh almost thirty years after it was recorded, and it´s probably only a matter of time before some DJ lays his hands on this stuff and makes people dance to it. Highly recommended!
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  | JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI ~ SPRZEDAWCY GLONOW (POLISH JAZZ VOL.90 DELUXE)
MUZA 1090 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 - 1973 Released: 2006
This relatively little known brilliant album presents Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist mainly in the capacity as the director of the Polish Radio Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, a superb collection of top musicians, which functioned as a catalyst and incubator to generations of Polish Jazz musicians as well as a first rate workshop and recording platform. Wroblewski, one of Polish Jazz veterans and Godfathers, led the orchestra for many years with great success and these recordings prove how great it really was. He also composed three of the six extended compositions included here with the other three composed by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist each contributing one composition. The arrangements are absolutely brilliant as are the performances, with the orchestra fronted as such first rate soloists like Stanko, Namyslowski, Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist (playing sax on one track and violin on another), Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist and of course Wroblewski himself, in short the crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz scene at the time. The music is very modern and even borders on Free at times, presenting very rare examples of Jazz orchestra accompanying a freely improvising soloist. This album is an absolute must to all Polish Jazz lovers and in retrospect is of the best Polish Jazz albums ever recorded. Grab it!
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  | JAZZ CHORAL / TOMASZ SZUKALSKI ~ BORZOMSKI WAWOZ / BODY AND SOUL (POLISH JAZZ VOL. 91 DELUXE)
MUZA 1091 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1989 Released: 2006
This unusual and very interesting album by the superb Polish saxophonist / composer Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, who sadly died this year, presents him in a double setting: first as a guest artist accompanying the Georgian vocal group Jazz ChoralFind albums by this artist and than as a leader of his quartet, which includes also pianist Artur DutkiewiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Andrzej CudzichFind albums by this artist and drummer Marek StachFind albums by this artist.
The album starts with six pieces performed by Jazz Choral; First three tracks are sung a cappella and the remaining three are performed with Szukalski and an unidentified rhythm section (piano, bass and drums). The vocal tracks are followed by three tracks performed by Szukalski and his quartet, two of which are standards and one is an original composition by the leader.
Jazz Choral were a vocal group similar to the Polish group NOVIFind albums by this artist, which existed on the local scene twenty years earlier, and several other ensembles which based their performances on perfectly matched harmonies and swinging melodies. Their performance is spotless and quite virtuosic, with a nostalgic touch. Szukalski spices their music with excellent solos, which can only be constructed by a musician of his statue.
The three tracks by Szukalski and his quartet highlight his incredible power as a player, clearly emphasizing his post-Coltrane legacy and incredible versatility. Listening to him play, now that he is gone, is truly moving to everybody familiar with the Polish Jazz scene. His premature death is a great loss!
This album was recorded during the transition period between Poland finally freed itself from the Socialist regime, and was somehow "lost" in the turmoil. This reissue brings back to life a piece of music, which should not be forgotten. Definitely worth investigation!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JERZY MILIAN ~ ORKIESTRA ROZRYWKOWA PRITV W KATOWICACH (POLISH JAZZ VOL.92 DELUXE)
MUZA 1092 (Barcode: 5907783420924) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2007
This album presents the veteran Polish Jazz vibraphonist / composer / bandleader Jerzy MilianFind albums by this artist as the founder / director / conductor of the Polish Radio and TV Orchestra in the southern Polish region of Silesia (with its capital in Katowice). This Orchestra, comprising of young musicians, mostly from the Jazz Department of the local Music Conservatory, perform original music which includes also two of Milian´s compositions. Although only marginally Jazz, it is a great example of how Jazz musicians were able to find jobs in the Socialist System, playing original music. The Orchestra also includes a vocal combo, which sings in some of the tunes, stylistically resembling the famous Polish vocal ensemble NOVIFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this music is certainly not a Polish Jazz milestone recording, but is still quite fun to listen to after all these years and certainly a document of the era.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ TALKING GUITAR (POLISH JAZZ VOL.93 DELUXE)
MUZA 1093 (Barcode: 5907783420931) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1984 Released: 2007
This is an excellent debut album as a leader by Polish guitarist / composer Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, presenting a set of ten original compositions performed by a superb team of musicians, including his ex-cohorts from the Extra BallFind albums by this artist ensemble. The list of names reads like a who’s who of the local scene at the time and includes keyboardist Wojciech GroborzFind albums by this artist, bassist Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist, drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist, percussionist Jerzy BartzFind albums by this artist, saxophonists Henryk MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew JaremkoFind albums by this artist, trumpeters Henryk MajewskiFind albums by this artist and Robert MajewskiFind albums by this artist (father and son), trombonist Roman SyrekFind albums by this artist and flautist Jan BaytelFind albums by this artist. The music is all Fusion oriented, with great melody lines. Smietana plays some excellent solos and is well supported by his partners. Overall this is mainstream Fusion, which ruled in the 1980s, so one must not expect complexity and innovation in what is supposed to be “good time” music, which it certainly is. The level of professionalism and talent expected from Polish Jazz are certainly there. Recommended to Fusion fans!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK ~ CHALTURNIK (POLISH JAZZ VOL.95 DELUXE)
MUZA 1095 (Barcode: 5907783420955) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
This wonderful album is the debut recording by the S.P.P.T. ChalturnikFind albums by this artist ensemble, invented, founded and led by saxophonist / composer / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. As the title suggest, the idea behind this ensemble is all about humor in Jazz, a relatively rare attitude in modern Jazz but something quite common in traditional Jazz. The ensemble consisted of the crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz scene: saxophonists Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, tuba player Zdzislaw PiernikFind albums by this artist, pianist Jan JarczykFind albums by this artist (replaced by Tomasz OchalskiFind albums by this artist on two tracks), bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy BezuchaFind albums by this artist, with the leader playing saxophone and a "mouth synthesizer" (i.e. a comb) and contributing four of his original compositions. The rest of the music comes from various sources, including even one theme by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist (obviously a tongue in cheek towards modern Jazz). Although the humorous approach to the music is easily detected, the perfect performances and the wonderful arrangements turn this album a true gem. These great musicians prove, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that sometimes it pays to take a slightly relaxed approach to music. Great stuff!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | BEMIBEM ~ BEMOWE FRAZY (POLISH JAZZ VOL.96 DELUXE)
MUZA 1096 (Barcode: 5907783420962) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2007
This is the only album by the Polish Jazz-Rock ensemble BemiBemFind albums by this artist, which was formed by the siblings Ewa BemFind albums by this artist and Aleksander BemFind albums by this artist, both vocalists and percussionists. The group was formed after the ensemble BemibekFind albums by this artist fell apart and the Bems remained as leaders of the new one. Aleksander composed nine of the eleven songs included here, which are all very melodic and quite sophisticated. The music is a mixture of Pop, Rock and Jazz, featuring excellent vocal harmonies accompanied by a great band and guest musicians like guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, pianist Jan JarczykFind albums by this artist and others. The vocal parts are somewhat similar to the style pioneered by the great Polish vocal ensemble NOVIFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this album is an overlooked gem, almost forgotten, but still sounding great after all these years. Although only marginally Jazz as such, it has a lot of Jazzy influences, which are clearly evident in the arrangement, instrumental backing and overall attitude. Ewa Bem would of course carry on becoming the First Lady of the Polish Jazz in the next decade, with this album being a nice reminder of the times when we were all much younger and innocent. It was an immense fun to listen to this album again after all those years and it remains to be a source of great musical fun. A must!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | TADEUSZ WOZNIAK ~ TADEUSZ WOZNIAK (ODCIEN CISZY)
MUZA 1289 (Barcode: 5907783422898) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2010
This is the 2nd album by Polish singer / songwriter Tadeusz WozniakFind albums by this artist, one of the greatest representatives of Polish Progressive Rock / Folk-Rock scene in the late 1960 / early 1970. Wozniak wrote some incredible melodies to the words of contemporary Polish poets (among them Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist who also cooperated with BreakoutFind albums by this artist) and performed them accompanied by his own exceptional acoustic guitar. On this album he is supported by some of the best Polish Prog musicians at the time, as well as a string quartet and the female vocal group AlibabkiFind albums by this artist. This album is much more advanced than the debut and includes a 14 minutes long piece, which gives the album its title. In retrospect this music represents some of the best sounds of the incredible Polish music scene at the time. Wholeheartedly recommended!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | NOVI ~ CHOPIN
MUZA 1295 (Barcode: 5907783422959) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Classical Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2010
This is a reissue of the third album by Polish Jazz vocal quartet NOVIFind albums by this artist, led by vocalist / composer Bernard KawkaFind albums by this artist and including vocalist Ewa WanatFind albums by this artist, Janusz MychFind albums by this artist and Waldemar ParzynskiFind albums by this artist. The album, originally entitled "NOVI Sing ChopinFind albums with this title", presents eleven compositions by the Polish National composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist, arranged for the vocal quartet singing a cappella.
Obviously following in the footsteps of The Swingle SingersFind albums by this artist, who recorded arrangements of music by Johann Sebastian BachFind albums by this artist and other Classical composers, NOVI undertook this difficult and very ambitious project to sing Chopin´s music in a similar Swing fashion and against all odds succeeded beyond all expectations. This recording immediately achieved a status of a cult album, and although not really a Jazz album per se, was warmly embraced by the Jazz community as part of its milieu.
In many aspects the album symbolizes the Polish Culture, as it embodies the idea of Polish Music, which became a part of Polish Cultural Heritage, transforming in time and staying contemporary regardless the changing frame of reference, in this case the Jazz idiom.
The vocal performances on this album are absolutely brilliant and remain unmatched by any other vocal group since attempting to tackle Chopin´s compositions, not only on the Polish scene, but globally.
This reissue is well remastered from the original studio tapes and presents a wonderful sonic quality, especially in view of the challenging task of recording human voices. It does not correct, unfortunately, the lack of information that has been associated with this album since day one as to the arrangement credits and the name of the bass player who accompanies the vocal quartet (i.e. the album is not strictly an a cappella recording as the vocals are accompanied by a bass player on eight tracks).
This is a timeless classic of course and an absolute must have for any Polish music fan, Jazz or otherwise!
Side Note: After some intensive investigations I do have now all the missing discographical information, which is mentioned above. The bass player that accompanies NOVI is Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist. As to the vocal arrangements, eight are by Parzynski, two by Mych and one by Kawka. Of course I am not disclosing my sources ;)
| | Updated: 12/01/2017Posted: 07/01/2017 | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | LECH JANERKA ~ PIOSENKI
MUZA 1392 (Barcode: 5907783423925) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1987 Released: 2012
This is the third album by Polish vocalist / bassist / songwriter Lech JanerkaFind albums by this artist and his second solo outing. Janerka founded the group Klaus MitffochFind albums by this artist in 1979, which recorded just one legendary eponymous album in 1984 that is considered today as one of the best recordings made in Poland in the 1980s. After leaving the group Janerka recorded his first solo album "Historia PodwodnaFind albums with this title" and later on this album, which was his last release before the Polish Socialist regime was toppled. On this album he is accompanied by his wife Bozena JanerkaFind albums by this artist, who plays electronically amplified viola, guitarist Krzysztof PociechaFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz RoltFind albums by this artist. The album comprises of twelve songs all of which were co-written by Janerka and Pociecha with lyrics by Janerka.
Although the album belongs to the post-Punk / New Wave movement, by the time it was released Janerka already established his very specific language, which was quite different from anything else on the scene. The songs on this album are shorter and more concise, varying stylistically from Punkish roughness to melancholic shyness and even romanticism. Despite some use of electronics, the album is completely devoid of the dreaded cheesy synthesizer sounds, which make most of the 1980s music simply unlistenable. His vocals are much softer and less aggressive than on the early recordings and his music is infinitely more subtle and complex that most simplistic output of that period.
Janerka´s texts remain one of the album´s highlights; less revolutionary and angry than before but more cynical and brilliantly ironic, the lyrics became more personal and emphasized the struggle for survival of an individual human being in an alienated world. His lyrics are often considered as contemporary Polish poetry by many of his followers. Janerka is still active today and continues to record.
In retrospect this is still a great Rock album, perhaps the best Janerka ever recorded. This is definitely a classic album and an important part of the Polish Rock legacy.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SZYMON MAKOHIN ~ TRYIN` TIMES
MUZA 1449 (Barcode: 5907783424496) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 2008 Released: 2012
This is the debut album by Polish Jazz vocalist Szymon MakohinFind albums by this artist, which was recorded in 2008 and waited for four years to finally see the light of day. It presents Makohin performing eleven Pop / Blues / Soul standards, beautifully arranged by pianist Michal TokajFind albums by this artist, who leads the excellent quartet accompanying the singer, which also includes saxophonist Radek NowickiFind albums by this artist, bassist Michal JarosFind albums by this artist and drummer Sebastian FrankiewiczFind albums by this artist. On two of the tracks Makohin performs duets with female singers, the incredible Aga ZaryanFind albums by this artist and Irena KijewskaFind albums by this artist.
It seems that most Polish Jazz (and not only Jazz) vocalists consistently repeat the fatal mistake of trying to sing in English, which unfortunately in most cases, including this one, simply does not work. It becomes especially apparent in the duet with Zaryan, where the singer´s accent and phrasing contrasts with those of Zaryan, who is one of the very few Polish vocalists able to sing properly in English. Therefore, regardless of how good this album is on the instrumental level, the vocals are a priori an obstacle. Makohin has a very nice tone and obvious vocal talents, but his battle is lost the minute he opens his mouth. It´s a pity he didn´t follow in the steps of other Polish vocalists, like Grzegorz KarnasFind albums by this artist for example.
The selection of the material is also quite problematic, as all the songs have a strong common bond of sounding "sweet", with very little diversity, and none of them are challenging vocally. All these songs were performed brilliantly by their original authors, and this slightly Jazzed up version has very little added value. The only case of a Jazz standard present here is more a showcase of a brilliant bass accompaniment than vocal ability.
Of course Tokaj and the quartet play spotlessly and brilliantly, as always. The instrumental work keeps this album alive and kicking, which in retrospect is a pity, since this could have been such a great album under different circumstances.
However, considering this is a debut album, it should not be judged too severely; there is a lot of potential here and Makohin has a lot to offer, so I´m looking forward to hear his next album, hopefully in Polish this time. I certainly wish him all the best and keep my fingers crossed.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Recommend To A Friend |
  | DWA PLUS JEDEN ~ AKTOR
MUZA 1452 (Barcode: 5907783424526) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1977 Released: 2012
Polish group Dwa Plus JedenFind albums by this artist (a.k.a. 2 Plus 1Find albums by this artist) was one of the most popular Polish Pop groups in the 1970s and 1980s. Formed in 1971 by guitarist / vocalist / composer Janusz KrukFind albums by this artist and his future wife flautist / vocalist Elzbieta DmochFind albums by this artist the basic trio also included initially guitarist Andrzej RybinskiFind albums by this artist, who was later replaced by Andrzej KrzysztofikFind albums by this artist and in 1976 by saxophonist / vocalist Cezary SzlazakFind albums by this artist. This album, recorded in 1977, was created by an expanded ensemble that included in addition to Kruk, Dmoch and Szlazak also bassist Andrzej PawlikFind albums by this artist, drummers Andrzej WojcikFind albums by this artist and Jozef GawrychFind albums by this artist, pianist Janusz KomanFind albums by this artist and keyboardist / violinist Adam PilawaFind albums by this artist. The album, dedicated to the memory of the great Polish actor Zbigniew CybulskiFind albums by this artist, who died tragically at a ridiculously young age in a train accident, is a musical suite comprising of eight tracks. All the music was composed by Kruk and the lyrics are by Marek DutkiewiczFind albums by this artist.
The group (or rather Kruk, who composed their music) recorded this album to prove it is not just a simplistic mindless Pop act and is capable of making "serious" and much more advanced music. The suite is a mixture or Pop, Jazz-Rock and Progressive Rock and includes extended instrumental passages with excellent improvisations, especially by the violinist. In retrospect it is a great pity the group did not continue in that direction.
Although little known to the Prog enthusiasts both in Poland and abroad, this is, in retrospect, a classic Prog concept album, full of good music, great vocal harmonies and excellent instrumental work. Although this album remains as the only Prog album the group recorded, it is still an important piece of Polish Progressive Rock history. The new edition adds one bonus track and excellent remastered sound quality. Definitely worth investigation!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | FOTONESS ~ WHEN I DIE
MUZA 1518 (Barcode: 5907783425189) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1988 Released: 2013
This is the only album by the legendary short-lived Polish Rock supergroup The FotonessFind albums by this artist, a trio consisting of vocalist / guitarist Tomasz LipinskiFind albums by this artist (ex TiltFind albums by this artist / Brygada KryzysFind albums by this artist), bassist Marcin CiempielFind albums by this artist and drummer Jaroslaw SzlagowskiFind albums by this artist (both ex Lady PankFind albums by this artist / Oddzial ZamknietyFind albums by this artist). The original album included nine original songs, all co-written by the group members and all (except one) with English lyrics.
Stylistically the music marks the transition between Punk and Alternative Rock and is based on catchy riffs and expressive, somewhat theatrical vocal delivery and highly energetic performances. However, in contrast to most post-Punk Rock recorded in the West, this music is beautifully put together and features great melody lines and intelligent lyrics. Even the fact that English lyrics are used is not a problem in this case, as the dramatic vocals hide well the traces of any foreign accent.
In retrospect this is an exceptionally strong Rock album, which sounds great today exactly the way it did at the time of its release. Sadly almost forgotten, it is a great document of the Polish Rock history, richly deserving to be listened to today, especially in view of the sad state of today´s music.
The reissue is expanded with seven bonus tracks, most of which see the light of day here for the first time. Beautifully remastered, this is one great trip down the memory lane! Not to be missed!
Side Note: This reissue is part of the "Cult Vinyls" series by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and is the first time this album appears on CD.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | BUDKA SUFLERA ~ 1974-1984
MUZA 1530 (Barcode: 5907783425301) ~ POLAND ~ Pop & Rock
Recorded: 1974 - 1984 Released: 2013
This album by the legendary Polish group Budka SufleraFind albums by this artist is not exactly a straight-forward review of their first decade of activity, as suggested by its title. It does compile nine songs recorded originally during that decade, but only two of these songs are presented in their original form and the others were re-recorded especially for this release, and therefore this album is considered as a separate entity in their discography, being substantially different from a straight-forward compilation.
The group started their career in 1974 with their re-make of the great Bill WithersFind albums by this artist hit "Ain´t No Sunshine" translated into Polish but later on created their own original material, mostly composed by the keyboardist / bassist Romuald LipkoFind albums by this artist. The group kept going continuously over the years and is currently the oldest Polish Rock group still active on the scene. The group´s personnel changed many times over the years but the original members, in addition to Lipko, were vocalist Krzysztof CugowskiFind albums by this artist, guitarist Andrzej ZiolkowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Tomasz ZeliszewskiFind albums by this artist.
During their first decade Budka Suflera maintained a balance between melodic Rock and Progressive Rock. These re-recorded versions have a more up to date (as of then) 1980s sound than the original recordings, but remain faithful stylistically to the originals. Overall they present a remarkable group of talented and ambitious musicians, who definitely had their original way of doing things. In retrospect all these songs remain as examples of perfectly crafted Rock, which easily withstands a comparison with similar material recorded at the time on the west side of the Iron Curtain. Definitely a part of Polish Rock history and an album still very much worth listening to today.
Side Note: This reissue is part of the "Cult Vinyls" series by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label. In 2005 the group released a 20 CDs Box Set with all their albums, but this album was not a part of that reissue and therefore is a most welcome addition to the group´s recorded legacy now available on CD.
| | Updated: 26/01/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI QUARTET (POLISH JAZZ VOL.06)
MUZA 306 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1966
Polish saxophone giant Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist was an original member of the Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist Quintet and his international status as a jazz virtuoso is well established. Namyslowski plays in an astounding variety of styles, from melodic to free, always with dexterity, passion and superb timing. He is also a most gifted composer and his ability to incorporate Polish folk tunes into his modern jazz compositions is truly astounding. This album from 1966 is his first Polish recording, after a debut album recorded in UK a year earlier. All the compositions are originals and the performances brilliant. This was a true giant step in the development of the Polish Jazz scene.
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ 1
MUZA 342 ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
1st album from 1974 by this phenomenal Polish Prog group. Founded by three ex-members of NiemenFind albums by this artist`s group, which recorded with him 4 excellent albums, SBBFind albums by this artist had all the characteristics of a super-group: all members were monster virtuosi on their respective instruments, that had several years of playing experience and they all composed music. The lead guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist (yes, of Greek origin) was a revelation and the bass / keyboards player and leader Józef SkrzekFind albums by this artist was extremely well articulated and inventive. Together the trio played Prog of unsurpassed power, breaking all the conventions and pioneering uncharted terittory. Not much other Prog music gets better then this.
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NIEMEN ~ DZIWNY JEST TEN SWIAT
MUZA 353 ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
1st album from 1967. This epic album not only changed the face of popular music in Poland, but in fact took by storm all the so called Socialistic countries (Czechoslowakia, Hungary, Soviet Union, etc.) and was considered the turning point of popular music in the Eastern Block for centuries. The music, which is based in rock, but comes with a special melodic twist and incorporates Eastern European folk music, jazz, blues and and other influences. It was so revolutionary at the time that it struck musicians and the public with an unprecedented power, leaving a mark for decades. Niemen wrote almost all the music and most of the texts (in Polish), using poetry by famous Polish poets in some of the songs. Listening to this album is not only a trip down the memory lane - it is a fierce musical experience. Absolutely not to be missed!
| | | CD 1 Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend |
  | NIEMEN ~ ENIGMATIC
MUZA 356 ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
4th album from 1969. After 3 enormously successful albums with his group (Akwarele), Niemen decided to disband the group and start a new venture. He turned to his buddies in the Polish Jazz circles and soon recruited a stellar cast including the cream of the Polish Jazz players, such as Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist (drums), Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist (sax) and even Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist (sax & flute). Strangely enough the resulting album is not a fusion album but a fully developed Prog album of rare beauty, complexity and awe-inspiring power. This time Niemen uses only poetry as his texts and each of the 4 long suites is designed to complement the lyrics perfectly. For non-Polish speaking public the lyrical part is sadly lost, but even so this is some of the most powerful Prog music ever recorded.
| | Updated: 19/09/2018Posted: | CD 1 Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | EWA DEMARCZYK ~ SPIEWA PIOSENKI ZYGMUNTA KONIECZNEGO (EXPANDED EDITION)
MUZA 445 (Barcode: 5907783494451) ~ POLAND ~ Classic Pop
Recorded: 1967 Released: 1999
This is the most famous Polish album of all times, an extraordinary musical achievement revered all over the world in spite the fact that it is sung in Polish, which makes the lyrics accessible only to people speaking that language. The apparent power of the music crosses language barriers with its awe-inspiring intensity and expressiveness, similar to the music of Edith PiafFind albums by this artist, Jacques BrelFind albums by this artist and other famous troubadours, balladeers and chansonniers. The music, written by famous Polish composer Zygmunt KoniecznyFind albums by this artist, one of the most important composers in post WWII Poland, is absolutely marvelous, combining many different European music traditions, both of Western and Eastern European origin, providing a perfect match to the poetry, which serves as the song´s lyrics. The poetry is mostly modern, written by the country´s most talented and expressive minds, including my favorite Polish poet Julian TuwimFind albums by this artist. Outstanding Polish singer Ewa DemarczykFind albums by this artist performs these songs with such transcendent power and skill, theatrical dynamics and incredible vocal quality, that each and every one of them becomes an instant classic, all marvelous and brilliant. Combined together on one album they create a musical masterpiece rarely paralleled elsewhere, proving again that great music can be created outside of the mainstream, both musically and geographically. In the 43 years that passed since this album was recorded it lost absolutely nothing of its beauty, excellence and power and perhaps serves as yet another piece of evidence about the decadence and loss of direction we experience in music in recent times. This expanded edition of the original album includes a second CD with similar material recorded by Demarczyk four years earlier and issued as a single, which today is one of that rarest collector´s items in the Polish discography. Absolutely essential listening!
| | | CD 2 Remastered Bonus Tracks Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | ANDRZEJ KURYLEWICZ / WANDA WARSKA / NIEMEN ~ MUZYKA TEATRALNA I TELEWIZYJNA
MUZA 842 (Barcode: 5907783498428) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2006
Since the day this album was released I´ve always cherished it as one of the greatest albums ever recorded. Undoubtedly my Polish background, my love of the Polish Culture and my ability to understand the lyrics / poetry has something to do with the fact that this album is so meaningful to me, but honestly I believe that any music connoisseur in the world should be moved by this extraordinary music and performances. The music, composed by pianist / composer Andrzej KurylewiczFind albums by this artist, one of Poland´s musical icons and a precursor of Polish Jazz, was originally written for theatre and television and is presented here in a special arrangement for a string orchestra and Jazz combo, featuring two of Poland´s most extraordinary vocal talents: Wanda WarskaFind albums by this artist and NiemenFind albums by this artist. The Jazz combo consists of the composer on piano, trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist and drummer Wladyslaw JagielloFind albums by this artist. The lyrics are all based on Polish poetry, mainly works of the great Polish poet Cyprian Kamil NorwidFind albums by this artist. Warska, the leading interpreter of Polish poetry and faithful performer of the music composed by Kurylewicz, is a superbly sensitive singer blessed by an angelic voice and extraordinary theatrical sensitivity. Niemen is of course Poland´s all time greatest musical genius known worldwide for his achievements, but his appearance on this album is one of the highlights of his career. Niemen´s "obsession" with Norwid´s poetry comes here to an ideal fruition and his vocal parts are simply breathtaking. Although not strictly a Jazz album, the album´s music has a distinct Jazzy character and falls easily into the extended definition of the genre. Overall this is a masterpiece of rare beauty, perfect in every sense, everlasting and always inspiring. An absolute must in every respect!
| | | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | SBB ~ SBB
MUZA 843 (Barcode: 5901844988125) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2004
This is the 1st album by the seminal Polish Prog / Fusion group SBBFind albums by this artist, founded by three ex-members of NiemenFind albums by this artist´s support group: bassist / keyboardist / leader Jozef SkrzekFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist and drummer Jerzy PiotrowskiFind albums by this artist. All three musicians were absolute virtuosi on their respective instruments and all three composed music. Their unusual approach, power of imagination and disregard of conventions turned them into immediate superstars on the East European music scene, with no rival act to challenge their supremacy for many years. Their influence on the music scene in Poland and other East European countries was enormous and their music and they way they made music served as a model to countless Prog / Fusion ensembles. The lengthy (running for the entire duration of both LP sides) improvisations, with incredible dynamics and changing tempi, moods and themes was quite innovative at the time, and SBB were one of the very few groups who could actually make it work. In retrospect this remains as one of the most important debut Prog / Fusion albums of all time and an absolutely essential piece of any serious record collection.
Side Note: This limited edition presents the remastered original album in gatefold mini-sleeve packaging and is absolutely impossible to find.
| | | CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Essential Recommend To A Friend |
  | KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ~ ASTIGMATIC (POLISH JAZZ VOL.05)
MUZA 905 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1965 Released: 2004
This music, encapsulated for eternity in a piece of plastic, is one of the great milestones of human Culture, an ultra-rare eruption of human genius. Recorded by a quintet led by Polish pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, the legendary Godfather of Polish Jazz, this is definitely the most important piece of music recorded in Eastern Europe, which changed the face of Culture far beyond what most people realize. Universally accepted as a model and artistic / aesthetic climax by generations of Jazz musicians in Komeda´s native Poland and far beyond the country borders, this modern Jazz recording influenced innumerable minds and prompted endless artistic processes. The album includes just three pieces of music: the title track; "Kattorna", which was a theme in the soundtrack of a movie by the Danish director Henning CarlsenFind albums by this artist; and "Svantetic", a tune dedicated to the Swedish poet Svante ForsterFind albums by this artist, Komeda´s friend. The quintet included trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, German bassist Gunter LenzFind albums by this artist and Swedish drummer Rune CarlssonFind albums by this artist. Playing in every possible grouping, from solo to a full quintet, these brilliant and inspired musicians manage to achieve a whole, which is so much more than a sum of its parts. The result goes way beyond soloing, improvising, interplaying and exchanging ideas; it is a sort of group creation, which builds upon the basic structures, which are the mesmerizing Komeda´s melodies and soaring infinitely towards a musical heaven. There is everything here: melody, harmony, freedom and structure, rhythm and space, all simultaneously represented without conflicting and fighting for supremacy. Such harmonious music-making is indeed very rare and therefore priceless. One might wonder how this wonderful music happened in Poland of all places. Well the reasons for this are numerous and complex, but of course genius knows no geographical limitations and catalyzed by the fertile intellectual background of the 1960s Poland, struggling with Socialist regime and longing for Freedom, Jazz became an escape route, which in this case found its true vocation. Of course the fact that Stanko and Namyslowski were (and thank God still are) exceptionally gifted musicians helped to materialize the potential of Komeda´s music. One might as well look into Komeda´s fascination (and adoration) of the music and life of John ColtraneFind albums by this artist, who served as a beacon and a model in the composer´s path to inner enlightenment. And yet Komeda did not succumb to Coltrane´s (or indeed the entire American Free Jazz movement) ideas blindly and unconditionally, as did many of his peers. He decided to incorporate the struggle for Freedom, which was a central scheme in Coltrane´s philosophy (both musical and personal) with his deep European cultural roots and heritage, building his very personal bridge between Cultures. This is why his music works so well, regardless if it´s a concert played in a Jazz club or a movie soundtrack. It is simply transcending stylistic or circumstantial limitations, as any higher level of Art is able to do. The fact that this music was created almost fifty years ago is a sad reminder of how little progress (if any) we managed to achieve since. In face of this fact we should cherish the great achievements of our Culture and keep them close to our hearts. This is definitely one of those great achievements, so let´s treat it accordingly. Absolutely essential!
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  | MICHAL URBANIAK / GROUP ~ LIVE RECORDING (POLISH JAZZ VOL. 24)
MUZA 924 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2004
This is a reissue of the first album on the legendary "Polish Jazz" series by the Polish saxophonist / violinist / composer / bandleader Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist. This live recording presents this phenomenal Polish Jazz artist in the state of transition. Not only is his music moving away from the modern Jazz into early electric Fusion, but he also changes his primary instrument from saxophone to violin. His quartet includes the great pianist Adam MakowiczFind albums by this artist, who was the first to introduce electric keyboards in the Polish Jazz. In many respects this music is as revolutionary on the Polish jazz scene as the things Miles DavisFind albums by this artist did on the global one. A superb document and a visionary creation.
| | Updated: 08/09/2019Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Oversampling Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | MIECZYSLAW KOSZ ~ REMINISCENCE (POLISH JAZZ VOL.25)
MUZA 925 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2004
Mieczyslaw KoszFind albums by this artist was one of the greatest hopes of Polish Jazz and his untimely death at a ridiculously young age (29) was a true tragedy. He was a most lyrical and technically perfect pianist ever on the Polish scene and everybody compared his work with that of Bill EvansFind albums by this artist. Unfortunately this album is the only proper recording of his superb playing (some more material does exists but the recording quality is not that great). On this album Kosz plays some of his interesting interpretations of classical music and some of his elegant compositions. For lovers of piano trios this is a true diamond!
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  | PARADOX ~ DRIFTING FEATHER (POLISH JAZZ VOL.26)
MUZA 926 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2004
Only album by the excellent Polish Jazz ensemble ParadoxFind albums by this artist, founded and led by trombonist Andrzej BrzeskiFind albums by this artist, which also included cellist Michal GornyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Slawomir PiwowarFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Wlodzimierz SzlaskiewiczFind albums by this artist and bassist Stanislaw KulhawczukFind albums by this artist (note the absence of drums). The leader composed and arranged all the music, except one piece, which is an arrangement of "Malaguena" by the Spanish composer Isaac AlbenizFind albums by this artist. The ensemble´s instrumentation hints as to its originality, especially for the period when this album was recorded, and the resulting music is Chamber Jazz, which mixes elements of World Music, Contemporary Classical and Jazz. In retrospect this is one of the most interesting releases in the Polish Jazz series and deserves special attention. Ages ahead of its time, this music sounds as fresh today as it was at the time of its recording and should interest every serious Jazz connoisseur. Highly recommended!
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  | ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ WINOBRANIE (POLISH JAZZ VOL.33)
MUZA 933 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2004
This album by Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist is considered by many as a great peak in his long career. His abilities as an improviser and his skills as a composer come together in order to create a perfect modern jazz recording. The 3 brass instruments (2 saxes and trombone) and the pianoless rhythm section all work in perfect unison with amazing interplay and scary solos chasing one after another. One can find of course influences by John ColtraneFind albums by this artist and Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist, but this is truly original in every sense. A masterpiece!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ BLUES
MUZA 940 (Barcode: 5907783499401) ~ POLAND ~ Blues-Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2005
3rd album by Polish group BreakoutFind albums by this artist is one of the most influential albums, not only in Poland but in the entire Easter European music scene. Separated from the West by the Iron Curtain, Eastern European musicians and fans alike had little opportunity to hear album released "on the other side" and therefore relied primarily on whatever was available to them. Poland led the way in music in the 1960s and 1970s not only in Jazz, which flourished there, but also in Rock and Blues-Rock, as well as early Progressive Rock. Albums by NiemenFind albums by this artist, Poland´s most influential Rock / Prog / Jazz-Rock Fusion figure and later on also this album, served as the "musical bible" for generations of Eastern European musicians to study, copy and be inspired by. Breakout, led by vocalist / guitarist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist, included also lead guitarist Dariusz KozakiewiczFind albums by this artist, harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. The lyrics were written by Polish poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who was the band´s resident lyricist. This album is a superb example of Blues-Rock, with absolutely stunning guitar work by Kozakiewicz, which resulted in it being referred to as the Polish version of the legendary John MayallFind albums by this artist´s "Bluesbreakers With Eric ClaptonFind albums with this title" album, being surely as influential as that seminal release. In retrospect the album lost absolutely nothing of its power and beauty and hopefully some Rock-Blues enthusiasts around the world will discover it eventually. Absolutely essential!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ MIRA
MUZA 941 (Barcode: 5907783499418) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1971 Released: 2005
4th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jan MazurekFind albums by this artist. The sixth member of Breakout was the great Polish saxophonist / flautist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, the first Polish Jazz musician, who combined the Jazz and Rock genres and of course was an early pioneer of Jazz-Rock Fusion. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but the presence of Nahorny and the contemporary Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album was intended as Mira´s debut solo album, but in time it was accepted by fans and Rock historians as the group´s fourth album. Sadly, it was the last Breakout album, which featured Nahorny´s Jazzy ornamentation. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ KARATE
MUZA 942 (Barcode: 5907783499432) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1972 Released: 2005
5th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group also included harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album, taking them back to the basic quartet lineup, was their most successful release in their native country. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ OGIEN
MUZA 943 (Barcode: 5907783499432) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2005
6th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included harmonica player Tadeusz TrzcinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Jerzy GoleniewskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Stefan PlazaFind albums by this artist. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album was intended as Mira´s second solo album, but in time it was accepted by fans and Rock historians as the group´s sixth album. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ KAMIENIE
MUZA 944 (Barcode: 5907783499449) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1974 Released: 2005
7th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. This new lineup of the group also included guitarist Winicjusz ChrostFind albums by this artist, bassist Zdzislaw ZawadzkiFind albums by this artist and drummer Wojciech MorawskiFind albums by this artist. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album, taking them back to the basic quartet lineup, was their most successful release in their native country. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | LABORATORIUM ~ MODERN PENTATHLON (POLISH JAZZ VOL.49)
MUZA 949 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2004
Polish Jazz-Rock Fusion band LaboratoriumFind albums by this artist was one of several great Polish bands (Extra BallFind albums by this artist for example) playing in that vein during the 1970s and 1980s. Founded by keyboardist Janusz GrzywaczFind albums by this artist, the band´s founding members included also saxophonist / vocalist Marek StryszowskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Mieczyslaw GorkaFind albums by this artist. After an initial period of trying to find a musical identity, the band was joined by brothers Pawel ScieranskiFind albums by this artist on guitar and Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist on bass (one of the greatest Polish bass players) and settled into the Fusion genre, with a musical approach and sound not far away from Weather ReportFind albums by this artist. This, their debut recording, presents them already in their full power and the recording is quite stunning in its sophistication and instrumental aptitude. The music includes the 20 minutes long suite in five parts, which gives the album its title and a few shorter pieces, all composed or co-composed by the leader. As opposed to most American Fusion at the time, which was mostly based on simplistic melodies and endless instrumental doodling, this music is atmospheric, intelligent, sophisticated, well developed and coherent, clearly well rooted in the European musical tradition. Fusion fans are well advised to try this out and explore this wonderful music, which is expanding the genre´s limitations to the max. Superb stuff!
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  | TOMASZ STANKO ~ MUSIC 81 (POLISH JAZZ VOL.69)
MUZA 969 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2004
Probably the most famous Polish musician worldwide, Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, acheived a legendary status as a virtuoso trumpet player of the same maginutude as Miles DavisFind albums by this artist. An original member of the legendary Kszysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist Quintet and a founding father of Polish Jazz, Stanko never allowed himself to become stagnant and his ever evolving musical style has been at the very front of modern jazz since 4 decades. This album presents him in the best form, playing with young musicians (except drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist - another veteran) and as usual playing his wonderful compositions, which range from minimalistic fiffs to beautifully lyrical melodies. A true gem!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ NA DRUGIM BRZEGU TECZY
MUZA 988 (Barcode: 5907783499883) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1969 Released: 2005
1st album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included bassist Michal MuzolfFind albums by this artist and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. The fifth member of Breakout was the great Polish saxophonist / flautist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, the first Polish Jazz musician, who combined the Jazz and Rock genres and of course was an early pioneer of Jazz-Rock Fusion. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but the presence of Nahorny and the contemporary Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ 70A
MUZA 989 (Barcode: 5907783499890) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1970 Released: 2005
2nd album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included bassist / pianist Józef SkrzekFind albums by this artist (future member of NiemenFind albums by this artist´s groups and later SBBFind albums by this artist) and drummer Józef HajdaszFind albums by this artist. The fifth member of Breakout was the great Polish saxophonist / flautist Wlodzimierz NahornyFind albums by this artist, the first Polish Jazz musician, who combined the Jazz and Rock genres and of course was an early pioneer of Jazz-Rock Fusion. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but the presence of Nahorny and the contemporary Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. This album is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ NOL
MUZA 990 (Barcode: 5907783499906) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1975 Released: 2005
8th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included on this album keyboardist Bogdan LewandowskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WypychFind albums by this artist and drummer Andrzej TylecFind albums by this artist. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ ZOL
MUZA 991 (Barcode: 5907783499913) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2005
9th album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included on this album bassist Krystian WilczekFind albums by this artist and drummer Marek SurzynFind albums by this artist. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | BREAKOUT ~ ZAGIEL ZIEMI
MUZA 992 (Barcode: 5907783499920) ~ POLAND ~ Progressive Rock
Recorded: 1979 Released: 2005
10th and last album by brilliant Polish ensemble BreakoutFind albums by this artist formed and led by guitarist / vocalist / composer Tadeusz NalepaFind albums by this artist. Breakout was formed in 1968 after Nalepa decided to change the name of his previous group BlackoutFind albums by this artist and reformed it under the new name. The group was fronted by vocalist Mira KubasinskaFind albums by this artist, one of the first great female performers of the Polish Rock scene, and also included on this album bassists Krystian WilczekFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew WypychFind albums by this artist and drummer Marek SurzynFind albums by this artist. The album was recorder in parallel with "ZOLFind albums with this title" and is a concept work intended to be performed at the ill-fated 1980 Moscow Olympics. Nalepa´s musical background was deeply rooted in Blues, and much of the group´s material was in fact Blues-Rock based, but the presence of Nahorny and the contemporary Prog and Psychedelic influences turned Breakout into one of the most formidable East European groups ever, with a broad range of cross-genre musical activities. Breakout had an immense influence on the Polish, as well as the entire East European music scene, serving as a beacon to generations of musicians living behind the Iron Curtain. In their native country Breakout was often criticized by the Socialist regime for idealizing Western culture and their music was banned from the media during the peak of the "dark age" repressions in the late 1960, which eventually only increased the following the group enjoyed among the young generation. Nalepa, who composed all of the group´s music, worked closely with lyricist / poet Bogdan LoeblFind albums by this artist, who supplied the band with highly intelligent and often controversial lyrics, way above the usual level of Rock lyrics used in Rock at the time, but on this album the lyrics were written by Piotr TrojkaFind albums by this artist. In retrospect this is a timeless classic and any connoisseur of East European Rock / Prog will find it phenomenal. Brilliant stuff!
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  | LESZEK DRANICKI ~ LESZEK DRANICKI (SWINGING TRICITY VOL.5)
NOT ON LABEL ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1986 - 1989 Released: 2013
This is the fifth installment in the excellent archival series documenting Polish Jazz created in the country´s Tricity on the Baltic Sea, one of the important centers where Polish Jazz thrives and over the years produced numerous first-rate musicians and superb bands. The series presents material, which in most cases never previously appeared in any form and therefore is of immense historic importance.
This chapter presents the vocalist / guitarist Leszek DranickiFind albums by this artist, who was a member of the Jazz-Rock Fusion ensemble BasztaFind albums by this artist, which is also documented in this series, and later played in several other groups (including the legendary KrzakFind albums by this artist) and recorded as a leader. This album is an expanded reissue of his debut solo album "With A Little Help…Find albums with this title", originally released by Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label, with six bonus tracks recorded later at radio sessions.
The music consists all of Jazz, Blues and Pop standards, which Dranicki sings (in English) and plays guitar on. Although some of the arrangements are pretty nice, the overall effect is far from spectacular. As usual the attempt to sing in English simply falls apart and spoils the pleasure of the instrumental work, which is better by far. Dranicki is a good guitar player with a Bluesy feel and splendid technical efficiency. The two bonus tracks recorded with bassist Andrzej CudzichFind albums by this artist and drummer Eryk KulmFind albums by this artist are the most impressive and the last two solo tracks are the weakest.
The problem with this album is that is completely lacks any originality and shows how some of the musicians behind the Iron Curtain wanted to copy what was happening elsewhere, rather than create some new facets in their musical explorations. Of course this material is still worthy, especially as part of an archival series.
This is another great piece of Polish Jazz history, which should definitely be told and preserved as part of the country´s Cultural Heritage. Kudos to Marcin JacobsonFind albums by this artist for creating this series and keeping it going!
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  | JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI ~ SKLEROPTAK
POLJAZZ / ANEX 301 (Barcode: 5907513047568) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2009
The material presented on this album was recorded in Belgium but presents the great veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist, who contributed his beautiful compositions and arrangements and plays as the principal soloist. He is accompanied by the Belgian (Radio & TV) BRT Jazz OrchestraFind albums by this artist, directed by Etienne VerschuerenaFind albums by this artist, which includes many wonderful players, including internationally known keyboardist Bob PorterFind albums by this artist and drummer Bruno CastelucciFind albums by this artist.
Wroblewski, who was also the director of the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist during the years 1968-1978, recorded these compositions earlier with that orchestra, but these new renditions sound quite different from the earlier versions, being more "polished" and "rounded". The Polish orchestra was in fact a collection of top soloist whereas the Belgian orchestra is a full-fledged professional Big Band, which is much more about the overall band sound than individual solo spots. As a result the music captured here is a beautiful example of European Big Band sound, which is quite different from the American counterparts.
Overall this is a splendid Big Band album playing excellent music, interesting arrangements and featuring some great solo spots. Although pretty mainstream, this is elegant music, full of European aesthetics, which is completely ageless and sounds now every bit as great when it did at the time of its release. Big Band enthusiasts should have a field day with this excellent piece of music, which is again back in circulation.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | QUARTET ~ THE QUARTET
POLJAZZ / ANEX 302 (Barcode: 5907513047575) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1978 Released: 2009
The QuartetFind albums by this artist was formed by the rhythm section of Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist´s so called "third quartet", i.e. pianist Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist, with the addition of saxophonist Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, one of Poland´s all-time greatest Jazz musicians and a spectacular player of rare quality. Although Szukalski naturally dominated the sound of the ensemble, it was Kulpowicz who was the spiritual leader and the sole composer of all the original material they performed. Spiritually the music was soaked in the John ColtraneFind albums by this artist legacy, with Szukalski playing lengthy "wall of sound" solos, supported passionately by the rhythm section, with Kulpowicz vamping a la McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, Jarzebski delivering virtuosic bass parts and Stefanski raising all hell behind it all, which engulfed the overall effect with incredible power and overwhelming strength of expression, similar in character to the Coltrane late period recordings.
In spite of the fact that The Quartet was undoubtedly the most important Polish Jazz ensemble in the late 1970s, their recorded legacy is truly pitiful and includes this live album recorded in 1978 and their sole studio album, recorded in Finland in 1979 and released by the tiny independent Finnish label LeoFind albums on this label Records (which released also two albums by Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist from the same period). Therefore the double CD full of superb archival radio and concert recordings by this ensemble, also entitled simply "The QuartetFind albums with this title", released in 2013 by Polskie RadioFind albums on this label is an absolute marvel and a must have for every Polish / European Jazz connoisseur.
Following the ensemble´s breakdown in mid-1980, the Polish Jazz scene will never again experience this kind of music, so close in spirit, sound and emotion to the epicenter of Modern Jazz created by Coltrane. The Quartet´s brief three and a half years period was the closest ever moment in which Polish Jazz would become very close to American Jazz of a decade earlier, both in spirit and in practice. The Quartet somehow managed to put aside the omnipresent Polish melancholy and lyricism, which dictates most of the unique music created under the Polish Jazz banner. Usually, when Polish Jazz musicians try to imitate their idols from across the pond, they fail rather miserably, with The Quartet being the only exception, which proves the rule.
Young Polish Jazz musicians should study this music note by note – this is universally sublime document of human expression, freedom and power of creation, which happens rarely. Inspired by Coltrane´s music, this creation sparks a life of its own, which stands shoulder to shoulder with the original, without any inferiority complexes whatsoever. It is not a copy of the source; it is a thankful gratitude for the inspiration itself.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA ~ S.P.P.T. CHALTURNIK / POLISH RADIO JAZZ STUDIO ORCHESTRA
POLJAZZ / ANEX 312 (Barcode: 5907513047674) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1973 - 1975 Released: 2009
The material presented on this album originates from two separate LPs released by the PoljazzFind albums on this label label, each contributing one side of the original LP. The logic behind it is that the original Poljazz releases often included two sides of completely unrelated material, artificially combined for a variety of reasons, mostly economic. These two sides of two separate LPs are connected by the central personality behind the music, the Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer / arranger / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist.
Wroblewski was the founder and leader of the band S.P.P.T. ChalturnikFind albums by this artist, which was formed in order to present Jazz with a humorous and tongue in cheek attitude, featuring well known standards as well as original material by the leader. The band included the absolute crème de la crème of the Polish Jazz scene: saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Tomasz SzukalskiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, bassist Bronislaw SuchanekFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. The wonderful arrangements and whimsy performances are all brilliant, especially in view of the fact that they show that Jazz doesn´t have to be treated always so seriously.
Wroblewski was also the director of the Polish Radio Jazz Studio OrchestraFind albums by this artist during the years 1968-1978, which was one of the most important incubators and places of refuge for the young Polish Jazz musicians under the Socialist regime, providing them with a steady income. The orchestra performs a very ambitious piece of music composed by the young pianist Jan JarczykFind albums by this artist called "A Double Concerto For Five Soloists And Orchestra", which features as soloists top Polish Jazz players of the time: violinist Zbigniew SeifertFind albums by this artist, saxophonist Tomasz Szukalski and Janusz Muniak and trumpeter Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Legendary American drummer Stu MartinFind albums by this artist also participates in the recording. The music is a very interesting example of early Orchestral Jazz works, which combine contemporary Classical techniques with Free Jazz improvisation.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | KAROLAK / URBANIAK / BARTKOWSKI ~ MOVING SOUTH
POLJAZZ / ANEX 314 (Barcode: 5907513047698) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion
Recorded: 1973 Released: 2009
This is the only album recorded by the fabulous Polish Jazz trio, comprising of keyboardist / composer Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, violinist / saxophonist / composer Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist and legendary drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. In many respects this is a companion album to the groundbreaking album by the Michal Urbaniak ConstellationFind albums by this artist, which was released as part of the Polish Jazz series ("In ConcertFind albums with this title", Vol.36) and recorded the same year as this album. Both Karolak and Bartkowski were members of Constellation and therefore it´s hardly surprising that stylistically the music is very similar.
The album includes five compositions (one is a three-part suite), four by Karolak and one by Urbaniak, which can be roughly categorized as Jazz-Rock Fusion, but they are so unique and eons ahead of their time that simplistic labeling is not doing them justice. This is truly visionary music, capturing all three musicians at the peak of their creative powers. Although Karolak composed most of the music on this album, Urbaniak´s concept of Fusion / Funk are the primary forces at work here. His use of electronics to enhance the sound of his violin is simply brilliant and completely innovative. Karolak plays also brilliantly, with his Hammond ripping the sound-space to shreds. Bartkowski is driving the music forward like mad, being the Jazziest element of the music, busy but not intrusive, with fantastic polyrhythmic feel and incredible technique.
In retrospect this is one of the most important Polish Fusion albums, which sadly remains mostly unknown even to the local fans and especially so abroad. This reissue creates another chance for this album to be re-discovered, and I recommend to all the Fusion diehard fans to start looking for this gem ASAP!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | JAZZ TRIO ~ FOR THE FUTURE
POLJAZZ / ANEX 320 (Barcode: 5907513047759) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1985 Released: 2009
This album features the Polish Jazz trio called simply The Jazz TrioFind albums by this artist (probably the most unreasonable name one can adopt in such circumstances), which consisted of saxophonist Janusz BrychFind albums by this artist, pianist Marek PiatakFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal ZduniakFind albums by this artist. The pianist composed four of the five compositions present here and co-composed the fifth with the saxophonist. Although little know and mostly forgotten, this is, in retrospect, quite an excellent and unusual album, which Polish Jazz connoisseurs should definitely seek out.
The music is a very strange amalgam of melodic, pre-composed intriguing music, mixed with excellent saxophone improvisations, which are very Free Jazz oriented and superbly executed. Sometimes the saxophone parts are overdubbed, which creates an even stronger "wall of sound" effect, common in Free Jazz. Also the absence of bass, which dramatically influences the sound of the music, contributes to the "strangeness" and of course transfers the responsibility of keeping time towards the piano player and the drummer, who is quite unusual as well. The overall result is definitely fresh and surprising, quite different from what was happening on the local scene at the time. Perhaps it was an early precursor of the Yass scene, which was about to explode in Poland shortly after this album was recorded.
The overall level of individual virtuosity as well as the interplay between the three musicians makes this album a hidden gem, which simply begs to be discovered. It is a pity they never recorded together again (as far as I know) as the trio certainly had the potential of becoming one of the hottest groups on the Polish Jazz scene. But, alas, we´ll never know what might have happened. In the meantime let´s enjoy what we can hear!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | JANUSZ MUNIAK ~ CRAZY GIRL
POLJAZZ / ANEX 322 (Barcode: 5907513047773) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2009
This is the third album as a leader by the veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist, recorded live with his quartet, which also included pianist Wojciech PuszekFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and American drummer George BucknerFind albums by this artist. They play only four compositions, one of which is an original by Muniak, another is by the Godfather of Polish Jazz, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist (the title track) and the remaining two are standards.
Although well played the album offers no innovation whatsoever and is simply one more Bebop set, which is quite forgettable. The leader plays some mighty solos, which are, as always in his case, quite incredible and virtuosic, but the overall effect remains pretty unremarkable.
The album also suffers from a pretty amateurish sound quality, which often victimized live Polish Jazz recordings, with mobile recording equipment in the Socialist country being sadly sub-standard. Nevertheless it is a document both of the times and of Muniak´s legacy, and therefore definitely worth listening and enjoying his bravado performances.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
| | Updated: 01/06/2018Posted: | CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend |
  | JANUSZ MUNIAK ~ PLACEBO
POLJAZZ / ANEX 325 (Barcode: 5907513047803) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1982 Released: 2009
Polish saxophonist / composer / bandleader Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist was one of the most important Polish Jazz figures during the early post WWII period, which flourished in the 1960s / 1970s. He was part of the emerging revolutionary movement of Polish Jazz, where he played along such legendary pioneers as Andrzej TrzaskowskiFind albums by this artist, Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist and Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist. Since the late 1970s Muniak leads his own groups and records as a leader. This is his second album as a leader and since then he continued to record a plethora of albums over the years, both as a leader and sideman. He also owns his own Jazz club in Krakow, called "U Muniaka", which is one of the oldest continuously active Jazz venues in the country.
This album presents Muniak in a quartet setting, with pianist Wojciech PuszekFind albums by this artist (playing the Fender Rhodes electric piano), bassist Andrzej CudzichFind albums by this artist and drummer Krzysztof ZawadzkiFind albums by this artist. They perform four lengthy originals, all by Muniak, which allow for extended improvisations, mostly by the leader. The presence of the electric piano sets the overall ambience of this recording, pushing it slightly towards Jazz-Rock Fusion, but the leader keeps the situation in check and well within the modern mainstream bounds. Muniak´s performances on both the soprano and tenor saxophones are first rate as are those by the rhythm section, creating together some excellent, but not very innovative modern Jazz, which most Jazz listeners should enjoy.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | MAREK BLIZINSKI ~ WAVE
POLJAZZ / ANEX 327 (Barcode: 5907513047827) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1979 - 1980 Released: 2009
This is the only album as a leader recorded by Polish Jazz guitarist Marek BlizinskiFind albums by this artist, who was one of the first Jazz guitar players on the local scene. He was a very in-demand session player and participated in many recordings as well as recording with several groups of which he was a formal member, led by such Polish Jazz luminaries like Michal UrbaniakFind albums by this artist, Wojciech KarolakFind albums by this artist, Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist. He was a brilliant improviser and had a wonderful tone, which ornamented many important Polish Jazz recordings.
His solo career, however, never really took off and this was the only album he managed to release as a leader, before his untimely and tragic death at the age of 42. The album consists of two radio sessions, with Blizinski playing on both in a trio format, first with bassist Pawel JarzebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Janusz StefanskiFind albums by this artist and then with bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. Both these rhythm sections are considered to be among the best ones ever active on the local scene. The album includes seven compositions, all of which are standards.
Although well played, both by Blizinski and the rhythm sections, this album does not present his true abilities and sensitivities and in retrospect is unfortunately much less impressive than it could have been. Playing these standards, which present no true intellectual challenge for these experienced musicians, was a poor decision. His numerous recordings with other artists are much more impressive.
Guitar enthusiasts will obviously find here many beautiful moments of mainstream Jazz, with are every bit as good as those recorded across the pond. Definitely worth remembering!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | JAROSLAW SMIETANA ~ FROM ONE TO FOUR
POLJAZZ / ANEX 328 (Barcode: 5907513047834) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1986 Released: 2009
This is the second album as a leader by the fabulous Polish Jazz guitarist / composer Jaroslaw SmietanaFind albums by this artist, who died recently tragically prematurely, succumbing to cruel illness. Smietana was one of the most active players on the local scene and contributed enormously to its development over the years. This album presents him, as the title suggests, in different settings: solo, duo, trio and quartet, playing with some of the best Polish Jazz musicians active at the time: saxophonists Janusz MuniakFind albums by this artist and Piotr BaronFind albums by this artist, bassists Krzysztof ScieranskiFind albums by this artist and Antoni DebskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Jacek PelcFind albums by this artist. They perform eleven compositions, five of which are originals: three by Smietana and one each by Scieranski and Pelc, and the rest of the material is all standards.
This is one of the Jazziest albums recorded by Smietana, with fewer Fusion ventures, and his beautiful Jazz sensitivity is especially apparent herein. But all the other players also contribute very fine examples of intelligent, intimate musical conversations with the leader. Scieranski´s bass and Baron´s saxophone are simply delightful. Smietana experiments with the guitar synthesizers and performs on three quite distinctly sounding guitars, with his delicate touch being definitely one of the finest ever. Also the three duets with veteran saxophonist Janusz Muniak are among the album´s most enchanting moments.
In retrospect this is a very strong album from start to finish with no weak moments or unnecessary "fillers", and a superb legacy which Smietana left for all of us to enjoy. A must for all Polish Jazz fans!
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | MICHAEL J. SMITH ~ GEOMUSIC III-PL
POLJAZZ / APEX 313 (Barcode: 5907513047681) ~ USA ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1976 Released: 2009
This is one of the most unusual (at the time) albums recorded in Poland and one of the first Free Jazz / Improvised Music recordings. It was recorded during a tour in Poland by American born (resident also partly in Europe) Jazz / Contemporary Music composer Michael J. SmithFind albums by this artist, who was accompanied by Poland´s top Jazz personality, saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist and bassist Jacek BednarekFind albums by this artist. Namyslowski unexpectedly plays not only saxophone but also cello and flute, which of course is quite surprising. The album consists of seven original compositions, all by Smith.
At the time of the recording Smith was in the early stages of developing his musical ideology, which he called "Geomusic" and several of his recordings were entitled using this idiom. Later on he would become a well known music scholar, composer and innovator, mostly in the fields of electronic music. He is still active today.
The music included here is a wonderful example of early Improvised Music, involving minimal melodic notation and based on careful interaction between the musicians, mutual respect and virtuosity of the participants. Namyslowski, who usually played much more conventional music as far as form and structure were concerned, is the focal personality here and his cello playing is simply outstanding and outrageously original. The music lost absolutely nothing of its originality and pioneering spirit over the years.
Although Free Jazz and Improvised Music are today a substantial part of the Polish Jazz scene, almost four decades earlier it was quite rare and the fact that this music was released at all at the time is a miracle. The new generation of Polish improvisers should dig this album out and give it a proper listen, as it certainly is worth studying, as much as listening today.
Side Note: The PoljazzFind albums on this label label, which originally released this album, was active for 20 years (between 1972 and 1991) and was owned by the Polish Jazz Society. Considering the fact that the music industry in the Socialist State was centralized and totally controlled, with just one State owned music company producing all the albums, the possibilities to record and release Jazz albums were extremely limited. Poljazz was conceived and founded in order to allow for many more Jazz (and other) albums to be released independently from the State owned Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label / MuzaFind albums on this label and as such revolutionized the music industry at the time, being the only such enterprise in Eastern Europe. The Polish label AnexFind albums on this label reissued many of the original Poljazz albums on CD, bringing this fabulous music back to life.
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  | PAKT ~ Z ARCHIWUM POLSKIEGO RADIA, VOL.06
POLSKIE RADIO 1066-1067 (Barcode: 5907812240660) ~ POLAND ~ Classic Rock
Recorded: 1969 - 2000 Released: 2007
PaktFind albums by this artist was another great Polish Rock band, which existed briefly between 1969 and 1974, creating some incredible music in the process, but never got the opportunity to record an album for the State owned MuzaFind albums on this label label. Founded in Wroclaw in 1969, the initial and most creative lineup of the group was fronted by female singer Ewa WojcikFind albums by this artist, singers / guitarist Tadeusz ProkopFind albums by this artist and Zbigniew WrzosFind albums by this artist, bassist Edward BasarabaFind albums by this artist and drummer Jacek KrzaklewskiFind albums by this artist. By the end of 1971 the original lineup of the group started to disintegrate and slowly fell apart completely. In 2000 the original lineup re-united and recorded a few tracks.
The group performed almost exclusively original material, which mixed US East Coast Psychedelic influences with their Polish roots. Beautiful vocal harmonies, some first-rate guitar riffs and a solid rhythm section produced interesting, intelligent and quite excellent early Polish Flower Power Pop / Rock, which sounds surprisingly pleasant decades later.
Of course their hippy subculture, attitude and clothing was impossible to swallow by the Socialist regime, which practically blocked they way too success, which of course was dependent on having an album on the market as well as the possibility to appear at the major music festivals at the time, which never happened. Fortunately these Radio recordings were made, documenting the group´s output, albeit far from ideal conditions. A great trip down the nostalgia lane!
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  | KRZYSZTOF KOMEDA ~ POLISH RADIO JAZZ ARCHIVES VOL.04
POLSKIE RADIO 1600 (Barcode: 5907812246006) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1957 - 1962 Released: 2013
This is the fourth installment in the new series of releases initiated by the Polish Radio, which presents archive Jazz recordings. Radio recordings are always a fabulous source of remarkable material, and as far as Polish Jazz history is concerned, the Polish Radio, which was a state monopoly for 45 years, recorded over time a plethora of invaluable material, which apart from the albums released by the Polskie Nagrania record company (also a state monopoly), is the only additional source of Polish Jazz recordings. For many years Polish Radio recorded concerts presented during Poland´s most important Jazz venue, the annual Jazz Jamboree Festival and many other festivals as well.
The material presented here was recorded between 1957 and 1962 and presents the iconic figure of the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist. Of the twelve recordings, first five are studio radio recordings and seven are live recordings from the 1961 and 1962 Jazz Jamboree Festivals. Most of the material was recorded in a trio / quartet setting except for the four 1957 recordings, which were recorded by a larger ensemble. The remastering work is incredible and the sound quality brigs this music back to life at its full bloom, which of course is great news for the numerous Komeda fans all over the world.
The music presents a retrospective look at Komeda´s early phase, which shows the remarkable development of his immense talent both as a player and a composer. The transition from the early period when Komeda is performing American Jazz standards into the later period when he plays almost exclusively his original compositions shows the birth of European Jazz, of which Komeda was one of the earliest leaders, caught live in action. It also shows his role as a composer of film music, including his early score to the Andrzej WajdaFind albums by this artist film "Innocent Sorcerers" and his monumental music for the Roman PolanskiFind albums by this artist debut film "Knife In The Water". This is the Holy Grail of Polish Jazz, which certainly deserves to be kept alive and passed from generation to generation as part of the Artistic heritage, Polish and Worldwide alike.
However, some questions arise as to the actual selection of the material for this release; although I have been assured by the people in charge of the production of this album, that all the music included herein is previously unreleased, it is hardly conceivable considering the plethora of Komeda releases (legal, semi-legal or completely bootleg) over the years, with the extended "complete" Komeda series by both Power BrosFind albums on this label and PoloniaFind albums on this label labels and even the Polskie Nagrania / MuzaFind albums on this label 3CD set of Komeda performances at Jazz Jamboree, released in 2011, which seems to duplicate some of the music included here, and of course the lack of a proper booklet with proper liner notes, photographs and other well deserved details, which this monumental music truly deserves. Polish Radio really should have made a better judgment and more of an effort here. A pity!
As usual with this series, this is a great document of the era and an integral part of the Polish Jazz saga, which deserves to be told and studied. My advice is to get hold of this gem ASAP, as Polish CDs are often out of print before the paint dries on the booklets.
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  | FLAMINGO ~ FLAMINGO (SWINGING TRICITY VOL.4)
SOLITON 250 (Barcode: 5901571092508) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz
Recorded: 1961 - 1963 Released: 2012
This is the fourth installment in the excellent archival series documenting Polish Jazz created in the country´s Tricity on the Baltic Sea, one of the important centers where Polish Jazz thrives and over the years produced numerous first-rate musicians and superb bands. The series presents material, which in most cases never previously appeared in any form and therefore is of immense historic importance.
This chapter presents the FlamingoFind albums by this artist ensemble, a Traditional Jazz outfit, which was very popular locally as well as in the rest of the country and even participated in the prestigious annual Jazz Jamboree Festival in Warsaw. The group was founded in the late 1950´s, following the great Polish Jazz rebirth after the two historic Sopot (one of the Tricity cities) festivals in 1956 and 1957, which were a turning point in Polish Jazz history. The ensemble existed for about a dozen years until the late 1960s, and unfortunately never managed to record even one album, which sadly was the fate of many Polish Jazz artists during the Socialist regime. However they did record for the Tricity Polish Radio station in Gdansk, where most of the material included on this album comes from, except for five tracks that come from the 1961 Jazz Jamboree Festival, which were previously released by the state owned record label Polskie NagraniaFind albums on this label (MuzaFind albums on this label).
Flamingo was one of quite a few Polish Jazz ensembles playing Traditional Jazz, i.e. Ragtime, Dixieland and New Orleans, as part of the Traditional Jazz Revival, which swept Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. It was founded by pianist Jerzy DerfelFind albums by this artist, bassist Henryk PietrewiczFind albums by this artist and banjoist Lucjan WozniakFind albums by this artist. They were soon joined by drummer Janusz NalaskowskiFind albums by this artist and clarinetist Eugeniusz PudelewiczFind albums by this artist. Other group members present on this album were trumpeters Piotr NadolskiFind albums by this artist and Ryszard PodgorskiFind albums by this artist, and trombonists Andrzej DorawaFind albums by this artist, Edward RykaczewskiFind albums by this artist and Jan TomaszewskiFind albums by this artist. After the group folded, several members joined other groups; like Rama 111Find albums by this artist, which appears on an earlier release of this series, and even NiemenFind albums by this artist´s group AkwareleFind albums by this artist.
The group performed mostly Traditional Jazz standards, with their youthful energy and zest overcoming the lack of experience. The overall level of performances was nothing short of excellent, which gained them quite a following and respect at the time. They performed in several European countries and participated in many jazz festivals. Since their split they managed to get briefly reunited a few times celebrating their past. Most of the Flamingo members live now outside of Poland.
This is another great piece of Polish Jazz history, which should definitely be told and preserved as part of the country´s Cultural Heritage. Kudos to Marcin JacobsonFind albums by this artist for creating this series and keeping it going!
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