Michael Ullman
The songs by Milton Nascimento and Chico Buarque re-imagined on Rio Minas are not necessarily their best known, but all of the performances on this album eloquently testify to saxophonist Jean-Pierre Zanella’s love of Brazil and its people.
What strikes this listener most is the writing’s disjointedly distinctive — sometimes unfathomable — sounds and textures, as well as the music’s unpredictable flow.
Eschewing ostensible flash and musical sleight of hand, Without Deception is a treat for connoisseurs.
The recital of this remarkably self-aware singer was a series of highly literate and musically satisfying mini-dramas.
Overall, Light Blue is an impressive album: its ensembles simultaneously tight and graceful, its solos expressive.
These are two practiced masters at free improvisation. I am confident that many listeners will find them as intriguing and accomplished as I do.
Jazz Albums Review: The ‘Season’ of Newvelle Muri — Adventurous, Sure-Footed, and Strikingly Lyrical
The sound on these discs couldn’t be more clear or precise; the music is low-key, thoughtful, and resolutely melodious.
The two new Arbors discs are intended to bring Lerner and Loewe back into the jazz mainstream. We will see what happens. But what wonderful music these two groups have produced!
One of the strengths of Laszlo Gardony’s playing is his confident insistence on what he is doing, his impressive self-assurance.
For many listeners, Zigsaw will serve as a welcome introduction, not only to a virtuoso jazz ensemble led by an innovative leader, but to the music of composer Steve Lampert.
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