Record Reviews

JOHN TAYLOR ~ ROSSLYN ECM 1751 (Barcode: 601215992427) ~ UK ~ Jazz Recorded: 2002 Released: 2003 Despite the fact that British pianist / composer John TaylorFind albums by this artist appears on dozens of albums released by the German ECMFind albums on this label label, this is the only one released under his name. Recorded in a classic Jazz piano trio setting with American bassist Marc JohnsonFind albums by this artist and drummer Joey BaronFind albums by this artist. It is the trio’s only recording, captured at the fabulous Rainbow Studio in Oslo and engineered by Jan Erik KongshaugFind albums by this artist, offering a stunning sound quality. The album presents seven tracks, five of which are original compositions by Taylor, one is by his lifetime brother in arms Kenny WheelerFind albums by this artist and finally one is a standard. The music presents mostly the poetic, deeply lyrical side of Taylor’s personality, both as composer and performer. The compositions are mostly melody based, but offer a long stretches of open space, which allow less rigor and allows creative freedom. Taylor is ab absolute focus of the album, with the rhythm section being utterly respective and restrained, accompanying the piano delicately, but with great thoughtfulness and taste. This approach adds to the delicate atmosphere, which is almost meditative at times, emphasizing the “less is more” approach. The album celebrated Taylor’s 60th birthday and was perhaps one of his most reflective moments in his long standing career, with every note perfectly articulated and the melodies full of the unique Englishness, which always characterized Taylor’s music. In retrospect it is definitely one of his best recordings of all time, and an absolute must in any decent British Jazz collection. Overall this is an absolute classic Jazz album in every respects and an absolute ultimate Jazz piano trio recording in many respects, which should serve as an example of what Jazz is all about, and the perfect combination of melody and freedom. Absolutely essential!

Updated: 02/04/2021Posted: 02/04/2021

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