Record Reviews

JOHN TAYLOR ~ PHASES CAM JAZZ 7816 (Barcode: 8024709781628) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2009 This is a solo piano album by the British Jazz pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist. It is the second of three solo piano albums Taylor recorded for the Italian CAM JazzFind albums on this label label, which followed the "Songs And VariationsFind albums with this title" album and preceded the "In Two MindsFind albums with this title" album. The album presents twelve pieces, eleven of which were composed by Taylor and one by Kenny Wheeler. The music was recorded at the famous Bauer Studios in Ludwigsburg, and was released only three years after it was recorded. The music is, as usual, a sublime expression of Taylor´s sublime lyricism and his ability to weave beautiful melodies, which are simply irresistible. Each of these relatively short pieces is a story in itself, full of wonderful harmony and aesthetic perfection, rarely achieved by others. The piano playing is no less impressive, full of delicate touches on the keyboard and dynamic versatility worthy of Masters. Taylor´s unique approach to the piano is idiosyncratic enough to be immediately recognizable by his admirers and naturally his solo piano recordings are the best opportunity to be exposed to his unparalleled artistry. Together with the a.m. two solo piano albums, this is some of the finest Jazz music in general and Jazz solo piano recordings in particular, and Taylor´s many connoisseurs will find it as an essential part of their music collection. His untimely passing in 2015 delivered an enormous blow to British Jazz, especially since Taylor was still very much in his prime at the time. The only solace is the relatively extensive recorded legacy he left for all of us to enjoy and cherish, of which this album is an essential part.

Updated: 12/10/2020Posted: 12/10/2020

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