Record Reviews

JAN PTASZYN WROBLEWSKI ~ ON THE ROAD VOL.1 FOR TUNE 0160 (Barcode: 5906395808755) ~ POLAND ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 - 2020 Released: 2022 As the title suggests, this is the first volume of an archival live album by the Polish Jazz Colossus and Godfather of the local Jazz scene, saxophonist / composer / bandleader Jan Ptaszyn WroblewskiFind albums by this artist, born in 1936. The album presents five tracks recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Wojciech NiedzielaFind albums by this artist, bassists Jacek Niedziela-MeiraFind albums by this artist or Andrzej SwiesFind albums by this artist and drummer Marcin JahrFind albums by this artist. The first three tracks were recorded in 2003 and the other two in 2020. Four tracks are original compositions by Wroblewski and one is a standard. The music is all mainstream oriented, combining elements of Bebop and typical Polish Jazz lyricism, based on beautiful melodic themes, which Wroblewski has been spinning for decades with great skill and craftsmanship. Despite his age, his saxophone playing remains masterful and unblemished. Although the first and the second recording are separated by seventeen years, there is no noticeable / audible difference in his performing ability. I had ample ability to hear the Master perform live during these years, and was always amazed by his longevity and imperishable gift of handling his instrument. The four musicians accompanying Wroblewski, all much younger than him, reflect the incredible level of the local talent, carrying the torch he and a few others ignited decades earlier. Their performances are all impeccable. This beautifully produced and released album is an obvious tribute to the Man behind the notes, a symbol and a living history of the Polish Jazz movement. The album’s booklet (bilingual) includes an interview with the Master, which sheds light on his personal relationship with Jazz, which is a fascinating read. Overall, this is a loving tribute to a man, who symbolizes the Polish Jazz scene for decades and who contributed enormously to its development, admired by his peers as much as the by the younger generations of Polish Jazz musicians. Luckily he can enjoy this gift of love and admiration, while still with us.

Updated: 07/01/2023Posted: 07/01/2023

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