CM
Cultural Monitor
THE OCTOBER CULTURAL MONITOR FOCUSES ON EXQUISITE JAZZ AND CLASSICAL MUSIC. SOME FIRST-RATE RECORDINGS AND CONCERT EVENTS ARE REVIEWED BY MACIEJ PROLIŃSKI.
RECORDINGS
JOHN COLTRANE - "BOTH DIRECTIONS AT ONCE: THE LOST ALBUM" – DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL MUSIC POLAND – CD
John Coltrane (1926-1967,) an American saxophonist and composer, is one of the forerunners of free jazz and one of the biggest jazz artists ever. In the 1960s, he transformed jazz into a sophisticated medium of expression worthy of high art. This latest album by Coltrane brings us an unknown recording session taped in his prime. He is accompanied by the Classic Quartet featuring pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Jimmy Garrison and drummer Elvin Jones. The recording had been made on March 6, 1963, ahead of Coltrane’s most famous album, "A Love Supreme," considered one of the most famous jazz stories, was released. The producer destroyed the original session recording, but a copy survived. Apparently, it stayed with family until it was recently discovered. This is undoubtedly a treat for admirers of old, and yet very modern, strong jazz, which draws on jazz tradition. These works have definitely stood the test of time. Coltrane is an undisputed legend, and a considerable part of this set is now an absolute classic. In this music, true freedom (and talent) make each work and improvisation a tiny wonder.
KAMASI WASHINGTON - "HEAVEN AND EARTH" – DISTRIBUTED BY SONIC - 3CD Kamasi Washington, born in 1981, is one of the hottest names on the contemporary jazz circuit. His previous album "Epic" made him almost a jazz Messiah, mentioned by many among the most accomplished saxophonists and artists who have restored jazz to its original glory. Three years after that CD was released, he has decided to regale us with another full-size (3 CD) album. It is divided into several parts in which Washington confronts reality with the cosmic theatre. In this way, the artist deals with the current global chaos and presents his vision of the future. It is again a very successful, smart and intelligent project, deeply immersed in jazz, soul, pop, and classical tradition, and performed with unprecedented panache: there are choirs, as well as a symphony orchestra. It all comes across as very clear-cut. The sound of the entire band is impeccable. There are some incredibly convincing improvisations. Each sound is poised on the borderline of simplicity, clear melody, magic and acrobatics. For me, it is the jazz-album of the year - a must to grace the shelf of every jazz fan.
MARCUS MILLER - "LAID BLACK" – DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL MUSIC POLAND – CD Originating from the New York Jamaica neighbourhood, Miller is one of the best jazz bass players in the world. He has recorded about 30 solo albums, but his bass playing can be heard on over 400 albums. The latest release is the successor to "Afrodeezia" brought out 3 years ago. As the artist himself says: “‘Afrodeezia’ was a great musical journey. By cooperating with musicians from different parts of Africa and the Caribbean, I followed the path of my ancestors. On ‘Laid Black’ I'm going back to the present. There's hip-hop, soul, funk, R&B and, of course, jazz." The artist also invited several prominent guests, such as: Take Six, Jonathan Butler, and Selah Sue. You do not need to convince anyone to listen to Miller. This wonderful, joyful music just flows with effortless ease. Miller may sound a little more subdued than on previous albums, but he still eclipses many a bass player. Even for those who know his music very well, it will be a journey full of surprises. It promises to be a discovery for those not normally into jazz. At the end of November, a real concert feast is being prepared for fans of the legendary bass player. As part of a world tour, the artist will visit five Polish cities: Gliwice, Poznań, Gdynia, Warsaw and Wrocław.
70 polish market