Record Reviews

ANDRZEJ JAGODZINSKI ~ CHOPIN LES BRILLANTES NOT ON LABEL (Barcode: 9788393067404) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2009 Released: 2010 This is the fifth album dedicated to Jazz interpretations of the music composed by the great Polish composer Frederic ChopinFind albums by this artist recorded by Polish Jazz pianist / composer Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist and his trio with bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist. This double album is a fact a new recording of the same material that is featured on the trio´s first two albums recorded fifteen years earlier, re-captured from a retrospective view and enriched by years of common experiences and joy of playing this music together. When Jagodzinski first recorded Chopin´s music twenty years ago he was pioneering a trend, which in time swept the Polish Jazz scene like a tsunami, with literally hundreds of albums with Chopin´s music reinterpreted in the Jazz milieu. These attempts to follow a trend and jump on a bandwagon, which varied in quality form important and innovative to completely redundant and often preposterous, eventually had an adverse effect on the Polish Jazz fans, who had just about enough of Jazzy Chopin being showed down their throats. Even if the original recording of Chopin´s music by Jagodzinski and his trio were not perfect and lacked the practice, they were bold, innovative and fresh. Sadly the repeated attempt, although richer and with better arrangements, lacks the original qualities and therefore is in some respect not such a great idea. Of course Jagodzinski and his cohorts are superb musicians and do a wonderful job playing on this album, but sticking to the original recordings is by and large preferable and sounds like a good idea. On the other hand since the original PoloniaFind albums on this label releases are not easily available, perhaps this album can fill the gap. Overall there is plenty of great music herein, as well as excellent playing by these legendary veterans and in case you don´t own the original recordings this one is definitely worth checking out.

CD 2 Digipak Recommend To A Friend

ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ THE LAST CONCERT POLONIA 002 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1991 Released: 1992 This is a brilliant album by veteran Polish saxophonist / composer Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist, one of the pillars of modern Jazz in his country. A superb player and a gifted composer, Namyslowski first as a member of the Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist´s group and later as a leader of his numerous ensembles created excellent music and served as a model to generations of Jazz players in his country. This album, one of very few live recordings by Namyslowski, was captured at Warsaw´s Jazz Jamboree festival and features one of the strongest quartets Namyslowski ever led, with pianist Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist, bassist Zbigniew WegehauptFind albums by this artist and drummer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist. Violinist Maciej StrzelczykFind albums by this artist joins the quartet on a couple of tunes. All seven compositions performed are by Namyslowski and portray his wonderful sense of melody, polyrhythmic approach and tendency to incorporate World Music elements in his music. Two of the tracks are over 10 minutes long, which allows plenty of space for extensive improvisations. I have no idea why this album is entitled "The Last ConcertFind albums with this title" (perhaps this was the last concert with this particular quartet?), as this certainly wasn´t Namyslowski´s last live performance and he´s still playing brilliantly twenty years later, to the delight to his many admirers and fans, as well as writing great music. For lovers of Polish Jazz, this is an absolute classic, which should be a part of any decent Jazz collection. Highly recommended!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ PEYOTL - WITKACY POLONIA 037/038 (Barcode: 5904542687307) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1984 - 1986 Released: 2004 This is probably the most significant recording by Polish trumpeter virtuoso / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, surely at least among his Polish recordings before his later ECMFind albums on this label period. Following Miles DavisFind albums by this artist, Stanko switched to Jazz-Rock Fusion (albeit a decade later) and his 1980s output with his FreelectronicFind albums by this artist ensemble is radically different from the Free Jazz he played in the 1970s. This double album consists of one studio recording and one live recording, both expressing Stanko´s power as a performer and a composer to the max. The studio album, which was compiled over a period of two years, presents music composed by Stanko at the period when he was experimenting with hallucinogens and was deeply influenced by the writings of the Polish mystic / philosopher / Avant-Garde artist WitkacyFind albums by this artist (Stanislaw Ignacy Witkiewicz), who was also an early experimenter with drugs. Text excerpts from Witkacy´s book about drugs are recited and closely incorporated into the fascinating music, which floats over a repetitious hypnotic vamp and layers of electronic keyboard sounds. The highlight of this album is undoubtedly the inclusion of a second genius trumpet player, Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, who exchanges licks with Stanko in a brilliant manner. The fact that Stanko invited Przybielski to participate in this recording is a testimony of how highly he regarded his unbelievable talent. Other musicians participating in these recordings are: keyboardists Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist and Tadeusz SudnikFind albums by this artist, guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist, bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist, and drummer Zbigniew BarysiakFind albums by this artist. The recitation is by the great actor Marek WalczewskiFind albums by this artist. In retrospect the fact that this music was recorded almost 30 years ago seem incomprehensible, as it so much more advanced that almost any music done these days. Stanko´s genius definitely reaches here one of its great peaks, which luckily for us was captured for posterity. Sadly this album is probably little known by his worldwide fan base, as it is very difficult to find, which of course is a shame. If one must own just one Stanko album, this is it, at least as far as I´m concerned. Absolute unadulterated genius!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 2 Essential Recommend To A Friend

WOJCIECH STARONIEWICZ ~ QUIET CITY POLONIA 043 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1995 Released: 1995 This is an early release by veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Wojciech StaroniewiczFind albums by this artist, recorded in a classic quartet setting with pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Adam CegielskiFind albums by this artist and drummer Cezary KonradFind albums by this artist. The album includes six original compositions, all by Staroniewicz, most of which are ballads. After listening to just a few opening notes it becomes immediately apparent that this is a Polish Jazz recording, as the music is full of the characteristics, which are unique to Polish Jazz: wonderfully lyrical melodies, folkloristic undertones, unusual meters and those unique harmonies, which only Polish Jazz musicians are able to invent. Also clearly apparent is the virtuosity of the participants, who in spite of their (at the time) young age sound as if they played Jazz for decades. Staroniewicz has a beautiful tone when playing his tenor saxophone, which resembles several of the great American saxophonists, but has more vitality and chutzpah. Jagodzinski is a fantastic player and this early recording already shows him in his full capacity. The rhythm section is also first class, doing a fantastic job supporting the two soloists both during the ensemble parts and solo parts. Although this is solid mainstream Jazz, it is full of intelligent moments and passionate performances, which take the music well beyond what is usually conceived as mainstream. Partly due to the leader´s superb compositions and partly to the musicians growing up absorbing the Polish Jazz heritage, which includes the innovations introduced by Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, which were as much influential on Polish Jazz as John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s legacy was on the global scene, this music is both a classic example of mainstream Jazz as much as an epitome of Polish Jazz. In retrospect I find myself returning to this album from time to time and although it is rarely considered as a Polish Jazz "classic", it is definitely so for me. Of course the fact that it was recorded almost two decades ago means absolutely nothing except for the fact that is seems to be getting better with time. The fact that Staroniewicz emerged eventually as one of the pillars of the Polish Jazz scene, not only as a player but also as a record label owner, concert organizer, etc. proves that he means business, which is always a great quality in people. So a "classic" for me, and if you get to listen to it – it will be also a "classic" for you!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ TALES FOR A GIRL, 12 POLONIA 046 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1991 Released: 1995 With the 1980s over, Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist enters the next decade with another pivotal recording, which marks yet another about face change with the return to "classic" Jazz, as defined by Stanko´s unique talent. This incredible album is basically a solo trumpet recording, an extremely bold and difficult project for the artist, which truly emphasizes his genius in full. Accompanied only by keyboardist Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist, who produces layers of atmospheric background, Stanko blows with full might presenting thirteen brilliantly concise pieces of music, which are simply mind-blowing. His virtuosity as a performer is demonstrated here perhaps more vividly than on any other Stanko album, certainly any of his previous recordings up to that one. His lyricism and incredible power of expression are overwhelming and the totality of his music is unparalleled. Although solo recordings (in Jazz or other types of music) are usually quite difficult for the less experienced listener, this album is so powerful that is able to mesmerize any listener sensitive to music. This album is the mark every other trumpet album should be measured against, a work of pure genius and an absolutely essential piece of Art in any sense of this word. Stunning!

CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ ROBERTO ZUCCO POLONIA 059 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1995 Released: 1996 This is a relatively little known brilliant album by Polish virtuoso trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist, presenting one of the numerous soundtracks Stanko created for stage and cinema. This soundtrack was used for the Polish production of the theatre play "Roberto Zucco" by Bernard-Marie Koltés, based on the life of infamous Italian serial killer Roberto Succo. The music, which as usual with Stanko´s work, stands alone perfectly when removed from the stage context, consists of sixteen relatively short pieces performed by a quintet, quartet or on solo trumpet. Thirteen of these pieces are composed by Stanko and the remaining three are variations on the famous standard "Blue Velvet", of which two include vocal parts by singer Dorota MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. This is an ultra rare opportunity to hear Stanko performing a standard, which he almost never does. Other players include pianist Andrzej JagodzinskiFind albums by this artist, keyboardist Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist, drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist and percussionist Zbigniew BarysiakFind albums by this artist. Overall, as always with Stanko, this music is powerful and delicate simultaneously, simply making you wish it just wouldn´t stop. This is of course an absolute must to any Stanko acolyte / collector and a great proof of Stanko´s versatility as a composer. Brilliant stuff!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

SIMPLE ACOUSTIC TRIO ~ WHEN WILL THE BLUES LEAVE? POLONIA 069 (Barcode: 5904542687574) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1995 Released: 2008 This is the 2nd album by the superb Polish Jazz trio called Simple Acoustic TrioFind albums by this artist, which consists of pianist Marcin WasilewskiFind albums by this artist, bassist Slawomir KurkiewiczFind albums by this artist and drummer Michal MiskiewiczFind albums by this artist. Recorded just a few months after their brilliant debut album "KomedaFind albums with this title", dedicated to the music of the Godfather of Polish Jazz, pianist / composer Krzysztof KomedaFind albums by this artist, this album is quite different and features the trio´s leader as the main composer in addition to his duties as the focal soloist. Wasilewski composed six of the nine compositions present on this album, Kurkiewicz added one of his own and the other two originate outside the trio, with the title tune being by Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist and an additional one by Carla BleyFind albums by this artist. Playing their own music allows the trio to stretch out and dare, much more so that on the debut. Of course Komeda´s music can be intimidation and even plain scary to every Polish Jazz musician, in view of Komeda´s legendary status, especially to such young musicians as the trio members at the time of recording the debut. But here they are, free of any (psychological or other) apprehensions, and the music surely indicates that. Of course these musicians are extremely talented and carry the "spark" of Jazz in their soul / heart, so anything they play sounds simply wonderful, even if the youthful energies are sometimes just a bit over the top. Of course a few years later the trio will receive a great lesson in Jazz from their Mentor Tomasz Stanko, with whom they were destined to play and record, a fact that at the time of this recording could only be a dream. But dreams do come true sometimes. In retrospect this is an incredible album by any standard, which (all things considered) withstands the test of time flawlessly and serves as a proof to the fact that the 1990 were not all a loss after all. An absolute must to Polish Jazz fans, piano trio fans and anybody with a pair of clean ears!

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ C.O.C.X. POLONIA 088 (Barcode: 5904542687888) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1983 Released: 2008 This great album by Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist marks his entry into the second period of his career, which is an almost complete about face in comparison to his earlier work, which was mostly associated with Free Jazz. During the next decade (1980s) Stanko will record primarily with young musicians, often associated with Rock rather than with Jazz, creating a unique (as always) brand of Jazz-Rock Fusion. This album, recorded in a quartet setting with guitarist Apostolis AnthimosFind albums by this artist (of SBBFind albums by this artist fame), bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jose TorresFind albums by this artist, presents a series of beautiful melodies, which are performed in a pretty straight-forward manner, with Stanko and Anthimos exchanging licks and improvising on top of a steady rhythm section work. Hardcore Free Jazz / Avant-Garde enthusiasts might find this music "strange" and simplistic, but honestly it is far from being trivial at any point. It is simply different, and Stanko, as an artist, should be without doubt allowed some slack to move forward and change direction, same as Miles DavisFind albums by this artist and others did. His trumpet playing is a s virtuosic as always, and nothing beats Stanko playing a ballad – absolutely nothing! At the time of its release the album was received coldly and reluctantly by most of the local critics, who used the weathered "going commercial" arguments, without truly understanding the nature of the change. In retrospect this album is a valuable addition to Stanko´s musical heritage, which has very few competitors. Brilliant stuff!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ A I J POLONIA 103 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1982 Released: 1997 This magnificent album by Polish trumpeter / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist includes the rest of the music recorded at the same session, which produced the superb "Music 81Find albums with this title" album. As with all great and prophetic Jazz Masters, Stanko´s music was evolving constantly and by the time this session was recorded in 1982, he was ready to leave behind the Avant-Garde / Free Jazz / experimental music, which dominated his first period (late 1960s to late 1970s) and gradually move forward towards new things, which would include mostly Jazz-Rock Fusion and Jazz-Electronic experiments, which of course were all as advanced and adventurous as anything else he made earlier. That second period, which lasted roughly the whole decade of the 1980s, is well documented by the albums released during that time, each and every one of them indisputably a masterpiece in retrospect. This interim session between Stanko´s first and second period is especially interesting, as in many respects it both summarizes the first period and clearly leads the way towards the next. The music is surprisingly "straight-forward" (if such description is at all possible in connection with Stanko´s music) and conventional. Performed by a classic quartet with pianist Slawomir KulpowiczFind albums by this artist, bassist Vitold RekFind albums by this artist and the fabulous drummer Czeslaw BartkowskiFind albums by this artist, it moves stylistically somewhere between John ColtraneFind albums by this artist´s early 1960´s quartet and Miles DavisFind albums by this artist second quintet, mixing clear melody lines with complex improvisations. The performances are absolutely stellar, with Stanko´s trumpet shredding the air, beautiful and extremely sensitive piano work a la McCoy TynerFind albums by this artist, strong and steady bass and virtuosic drumming, which not only drives the music forward but also adds endless flamboyant ornamentations. Of course in retrospect we know now that Stanko was to return to a similar format a decade and so later with his superb quartet, but at the time this music was completely unprecedented on the Polish scene. There are very few Jazz albums worldwide, which come close to the perfection and vision of the music herein, therefore this is definitely an absolute must for any serious Jazz connoisseur, Polish Jazz collector and anybody with a pair of open ears. Beyond essential!

Updated: 12/04/2019Posted:

CD 1 Slipcase Essential Recommend To A Friend

ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ DANCES POLONIA 133 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1997 Released: 1997 This album by veteran Polish Jazz saxophonist / composer Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist summarizes many years of his career by concentrating on one of the most important characteristics of his music: the symbiosis of Jazz and World Music, or more precisely Jazz and folklore, as represented by dances from different regions. The album comprises of fourteen original compositions by Namyslowski, all of which are based on specific dance rhythms, like tango, waltz and samba or Polish folk dances like mazurka, kujawiak and oberek. Several of the compositions included on this album are new arrangements of compositions recorded and released previously over time. The music is performed by a quartet, which besides Namyslowski, who plays saxophone, flute and trombone (his original instrument) includes also pianist Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist, bassists Olgierd WalickiFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz GrzybFind albums by this artist. Three additional players expand the lineup to a septet: accordionist Cezary PaciorekFind albums by this artist, violinist Maciej StrzelczykFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jose TorresFind albums by this artist. A Cuban percussion group guests on one tune (obviously the samba). Namyslowski´s ability to compose melodies, which fit the various rhythms and meters, including some very odd meters indeed, is absolutely phenomenal. This album is full of such clever tunes, which happen also to be delightful and sound completely "easy" in spite of their complex and capricious nature. The actual performance is of course first-rate, as always with ensembles led by Namyslowski, who is very strict and meticulous as far as playing is concerned. In many respects this is the most unconventional album ever recorded by Namyslowski in which Jazz plays still a central role, but is intertwined with the folkloristic elements so tightly, that is sounds often like a soundtrack to a documentary produced by National Geographic. Jazz connoisseurs will find this album absolutely charming in every respect, even though it covers musical ground not habitually associated with Jazz. It might be very difficult to find, but I urge every Polish Jazz enthusiast to lay their hand on a copy of this gem. Listening to this music is such a great fun!

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

ZBIGNIEW NAMYSLOWSKI ~ 3 NIGHTS POLONIA 174/176 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1998 Released: 1999 This album by Polish Jazz Colossus saxophonist Zbigniew NamyslowskiFind albums by this artist documents a live recording captured during three consecutive nights at the legendary Warsaw Jazz Club "Akwarium". Accompanied by his regular (at the time) quartet, with pianist Krzysztof HerdzinFind albums by this artist, bassist Olgierd WalickiFind albums by this artist and drummer Grzegorz GrzybFind albums by this artist, as well as guest musicians: trumpeter Piotr WojtasikFind albums by this artist, trombonist Grzegorz NagorskiFind albums by this artist, accordionist Cezary PaciorekFind albums by this artist and percussionist Jose TorresFind albums by this artist, Namyslowski played a different program each night, which comprised entirely of his original compositions, twenty three of them in total. Although not intended as such, this recording is a sort of retrospective, both for Namyslowski the composer and Namyslowski the player. Approaching the age of sixty Namyslowski celebrated four decades of activity on the local and international scenes: recording some of the Polish Jazz milestone albums, grooming generations of Jazz musicians and playing countless concerts, an impressive record, which only very few other musicians share with him. Among the compositions performed one can find a few of his early tunes, going over thirty years back before the date of this recording, as well as some recently composed ones. The three nights seem to have quite a different character, although it´s difficult to guess if that was intended. The first night is all up-tempo tunes, performed by a septet with strong presence of the percussion, which spices the music with a Cuban feel. The second night is more modern mainstream, performed by a sextet and the last night is the most adventurous, with odd meters and World Music influenced compositions, which are often Namyslowski´s trademark. Overall the quality of the compositions and the performances are of course excellent. Namyslowski always knew how to pick up his group members, almost always from the ranks of one young generation after another. Walicki and Grzyb represent the youngest (at the time) generation and both prove to be able to stand shoulder to shoulder with the veterans. Herdzin, who played for several years with Namyslowski in the late 1990s, was still relatively unknown at the time (in the years to come his career was about to literally explode) and is the most interesting soloist on this album except the Boss of course. The guest players are all well known and their contributions are professional, but not very inspiring, except perhaps for Paciorek, who is so original that his playing is always fascinating. In the long discography by Namyslowski, this is perhaps not one of his milestone recordings, but in retrospect it definitely reflects his exceptional abilities as a player, composer and bandleader. The sound quality of these live recordings is spotless and has a warm aura and superb presence. This is a must have for the many Namyslowski fans and Polish Jazz buffs in general!

CD 3 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

CUSTOM TRIO / ANDRZEJ PRZYBIELSKI ~ FREE BOP POLONIA 226 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 1999 Released: 2000 This is probably the best album recorded by the recently deceased Polish trumpet virtuoso / composer Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist, who remains largely unknown to most Jazz aficionados even in his native country. An eccentric and outsider, Przybielski was blessed with an incredible talent, which unfortunately was recognized only by very few connoisseurs. This studio recording, obviously well planned and relaxed, allows the great trumpeter to relax fully and play his heart out to the fullest, accompanied by excellent musicians worthy of his company, which are called Custom TrioFind albums by this artist. The trio consists of saxophonist Krzysztof KapelFind albums by this artist and the Oles BrothersFind albums by this artist: bassist Marcin OlesFind albums by this artist and drummer Bartlomiej OlesFind albums by this artist – Poland´s Free Jazz most notable rhythm section. Together as a quartet they perform nine original compositions, five of which were composed by Przybielski and the remaining four by Bartlomiej Oles. The performances are absolutely stellar and the album is one of the best Polish (and definitely not only Polish) Jazz albums ever recorded. As much as that sounds overblown, if you can listen to this music, you´ll be instantly convinced. Any other player placed opposite (or side by side) a genius like Przybielski is in a great danger of appearing pale. Luckily Kapel is capably to blow like only a few can, matching everything that Przybielski plays with a vengeance. This is simply unbelievable music, which stands easily opposite such legendary sessions as the early Ornette ColemanFind albums by this artist with Don CherryFind albums by this artist. In short this is essential Jazz, which can only be played by a very small group of exceptionally gifted players, which is definitely the case here. Brilliant!

Updated: 02/01/2017Posted:

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

TOMASZ STANKO ~ LIVE AT THE MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL 1987 POLONIA 254 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz-Rock Fusion Recorded: 1987 Released: 2000 This live recording at the Montreux Jazz Festival is the last of the glorious 1980s albums by the polish trumpet virtuoso / composer Tomasz StankoFind albums by this artist and his FreelectronicFind albums by this artist ensemble, here consisting of keyboardists Janusz SkowronFind albums by this artist and Tadeusz SudnikFind albums by this artist and bassist Witold SzczurekFind albums by this artist. Stanko is in top form and in a great mood, which is evident by the happy atmosphere captured herein. His trumpet soars to incredible heights and the brilliant improvisations chase one another. In retrospect this is a perfect moment captured for posterity, just before the ever-changing Stanko would embark on yet another musical journey with the onset of the 1990s. The 1980s Stanko´s Jazz-Rock period was about to be abandoned and replaced by a return to the Jazz tradition and the new (again) Stanko, which would capture worldwide audiences with his ECMFind albums on this label recordings. But the 1980s period firmly remains as one of Stanko´s most productive and expressive periods and this album is an integral part of that legacy. A must to every Stanko fan!

CD 1 Slipcase Recommend To A Friend

ANDRZEJ PRZYBIELSKI / CUSTOM TRIO ~ ANDRZEJ PRZYBIELSKI & CUSTOM TRIO POLONIA 273 ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2001 Released: 2001 This is the second album by legendary Polish Jazz trumpeter Andrzej PrzybielskiFind albums by this artist with the Custom TrioFind albums by this artist, which consists of saxophonist Janusz SmykFind albums by this artist, bassist Marcin OlesFind albums by this artist and drummer Bartlomiej OlesFind albums by this artist (collectively known as Oles BrothersFind albums by this artist – Poland´s most respected Free Jazz rhythm section). The music was recorded live at a coffee house in Bydgoszcz, a town where Przybielski lived and which is an important center of Polish Free Jazz / Improvised Music activity. They perform seven original compositions, all composed by Przybielski except one co-composed with Tymon TymanskiFind albums by this artist, another legendary Polish Jazz figure and the pioneer of Yass. Sadly the sound quality is truly sub-standard, almost certainly captured on a portable cassette recorder, which hampers the otherwise sublime musical experience. The music is of course simply magnificent, presenting the essence of Free Jazz at its absolute apex, performed with flair and complete dedication. Przybielski is at top form and his solos soar straight to heaven. The young and relatively little known Smyk also plays like there is no tomorrow, standing firmly shoulder to shoulder with the Maestro. The fabulous rhythm section drives the entire vehicle forward ceaselessly with outstanding energy and drive. In retrospect there are very few other Polish Jazz recordings of this kind, which can be considered similar in quality and importance. Just a decade after this recording was made Przybielski died, neglected, lonely and forsaken. His talent was never recognized and appreciated during his lifetime, his complex personality and behavioral abnormalities estranged him from society and of course the establishment. Like so many great Artists the recognition, albeit marginal, was absolutely too little, too late. Therefore this album is another important piece of the limited legacy Przybielski left us to remember him by and of course an essential piece of Polish Jazz history.

Updated: 02/01/2017Posted:

CD 1 Recommend To A Friend

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.

CD 1 Digipak Remastered Recommend To A Friend