In some circles, the term "jazz" is used to refer to a design element rather than a form to be listened to closely; this has a tendency to piss off jazz musicians.
But in Europe, where the style of jazz has had equal footing with its virtuosity, works like this release by the Tanger Trio & Ensemble Mondaine artfully create miniatures harkening back to another more genteel era, managing to create music of warmth, humour and beauty. The piano, bass and drum trio actually revisit the European influences of jazz in referencing Debussy, whose pastel harmonies can be found in Duke Ellington's work. Bley and Jarrett can be heard as well, sometimes in a cafe complete with clinking glasses and conversation.
The Ensemble Mondaine provide just the right amount of colour and quirkiness to the mix, with everything from mandolins to violins to ouds. This release is a beautiful black and white movie that you definitely shouldn't miss.
(Séries Aphõnos)But in Europe, where the style of jazz has had equal footing with its virtuosity, works like this release by the Tanger Trio & Ensemble Mondaine artfully create miniatures harkening back to another more genteel era, managing to create music of warmth, humour and beauty. The piano, bass and drum trio actually revisit the European influences of jazz in referencing Debussy, whose pastel harmonies can be found in Duke Ellington's work. Bley and Jarrett can be heard as well, sometimes in a cafe complete with clinking glasses and conversation.
The Ensemble Mondaine provide just the right amount of colour and quirkiness to the mix, with everything from mandolins to violins to ouds. This release is a beautiful black and white movie that you definitely shouldn't miss.