Back catalogue: Jazz

Review: The newly unearthed 1970 Kongsberg Jazz Festival recording showcases Bill Evans' trio in a vibrant live setting. Featuring bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Marty Morell, this performance highlights the trio's evolving synergy. Recorded during Evans' methadone transition, the set reveals a newfound energy in his playing, marked by dynamic tempos and a percussive vigor distinct from the introspection of his earlier live recordings. The tracklist balances brisk renditions of standards like 'So What' and 'Autumn Leaves' with contemplative pieces such as 'Quiet Now' and 'Some Other Time'. Highlights include the mid-tempo elegance of 'Turn Out the Stars' and the emotive 'What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?' Gomez's bass solos feature prominently, particularly on 'Come Rain or Come Shine' and 'Nardis', where his virtuosity shines. Morell's nuanced brushwork complements Evans' shifts in mood, particularly during the tender ballads. The setlist, reportedly tailored on the spot, reflects Evans' knack for adapting to his audience. The interplay among the trio is masterful, underscoring their tight rapport. This release is both a historical document and a compelling listen for fans of Evans' artistry.

Review: The Last Poets, pioneers of revolutionary spoken word and proto-rap, return with a powerful new album that blends their fiery lyricism with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat. 'Africanism' sees the legendary duo, Abiodun Oyewole and Umar Bin Hassan, collaborating with a stellar cast of musicians, including the late Tony Allen, Prince Fatty, and members of Seun Kuti's Egypt 80. The result is a potent and timely exploration of social and political issues, delivered with the same raw energy and uncompromising spirit that has defined The Last Poets' music for over five decades. Abiodun revisits classics like 'When The Revolution Comes' and 'Gash Man', their messages of social justice and self-empowerment still burning bright. Umar's 'Niggers Are Scared Of Revolution' and 'Just Because' remain as potent and provocative as ever, their unflinching commentary on race and inequality cutting through the noise of contemporary discourse. The album's musical landscape is equally captivating, with Tony Allen's polyrhythmic drumming providing a driving force, complemented by the soulful melodies and intricate arrangements of the contributing musicians. A powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and spoken word.

Review: Jeff Parker's The Way Out of Easy harnesses his long-running ETA IVtet's residency at the Los Angeles creative music venue, ETA. Featuring saxophonist Josh Johnson, bassist Anna Butterss, and drummer Jay Bellerose, the album comprises four expansive tracks recorded live on January 2, 2023. Known for their transcendental, groove-oriented improvisations, the ETA IVtet's sound evolved over seven years, blending minimalism and polyrhythmic mantras. Engineered by Bryce Gonzales, who designed a custom mixer specifically for the group, The Way Out of Easy presents a pure, transparent auditory experience. The set begins with 'Freakadelic', a composition from Parker's 2012 album, before moving through meditative and richly textured pieces like 'Late Autumn' and 'Easy Way Out'. The album closes with a spontaneous dub/reggae groove titled 'Chrome Dome'. As the final chapter in ETA's history, The Way Out of Easy is a testament to the ensemble's deep creative synergy and the enduring spirit of the venue.