Somewhere Before (The Keith Jarrett Anthology) - Keith Jarrett

Advantages: amazing piano improvisation
Disadvantages: not for people who don't appreciate improvisation

...One of the most respected pianists of our time, Keith Jarrett, gives with the "Koln concert" a good definition of what improvisation is. Innovation, creativity, the feeling of uncertainty. Keith Jarrett is the kind of pianist that emerged during the 60's deeply influenced by Bill Evans and got mixed up with all sorts of jazz styles: fusion, bop, funk, avant garde and even classical music. In this recording you can find all his musical influences, concentrated in an improvisational way, unfolding in front of your eyes, or maybe ears. The result is quite amazing, if you think that Keith Jarrett wnated to actually cancel this concert because the piano that he was provided with, was not of top quality. For people who love piano and moreover improvisation in general, this is certainly a priority choice.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: a true avant garde jazz trio
Disadvantages: maybe too avant garde in some instances

...When we talk about modern jazz piano trios names like brad mehldau and esbjorn svensson quickly emerge to our minds. But no matter how good the former musicians and their trios are, nevertheless they still have a strong influence by artists like bill evans, keith jarrett and even Chick Corea. In the case of the Bad plus however, we can talk about a new powerful almost punk attitude towards piano trios. Imagine the virtuosity of jazz musicians combined with avant grade innovation and high volumed tunes, all combind in one. The original compositions sound so fresh, with all the rhythmic and harmonic complexity combined in a unique way. Trashy beats and excellent piano unisons create a some kind of trancedental atmosphere. And how about a cover of Nirvana's "smells like teen spirit" for jazz trio? Really interesting.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Relaxing and intelligent music
Disadvantages: None

...Here Tunisian oud player Anouar Brahem is in a trio setting with Francois Couturier (piano) and Jean-Louis Matinier (accordion). It's a set-up that serves him very well, and the blend of the North African and European is very pleasant to listen to. But it's a lot more than a cliched "meeting of cultures" or traditional album. It works on its own terms - Brahem introduces contemporary guitar styles in his playing, and there's even some keith Jarrett-style spontaneous singalongs (obviously by order of the ECM management). The mood is peaceful; the French, Italian and Spanish titles of the pieces generally suggest land or sea scapes - calm ones as nature intended. But this is not a single paced offering, and your attention is sustained by the trio's subtle nuances. The absence of a rhythm section heightens the instrumental... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful