Paris-born, Berklee graduate Pannier, now based in NYC, combines with alto saxist Zenón to produce that rarely successful hybrid - the marriage of jazz and classical music. Most dalliances of this nature fail because the opposing factions don't usually like what the other side brings to the table.
I'd like to think this compelling albums proves to be the exception, it certainly works for me.
The classical element is, not surprisingly, most obvious in the two tracks with renowned concert pianist Mikadize on piano - Messiaen's Le Baiser de l'Enfant Jesus and Ravel's Forlane - proof, if proof were needed, that, like Lady Macbeth (according to Ellington), Ravel did have "a little ragtime in his soul".
However, jazzman Goldberg can also perform outside of the box and he too proves his versatility.
Zenón, as well as taking on the role of MD, wails with passion and punch. On Ornette's Lonely Woman he creates a scenario that befits the title of the tune. On Midtown Blues, one of seven Pannier originals, he hits it out of the park.
A perfect album you might think - well er no. Music 5/5, cover design 0/5!
Lance
1 comment :
Ann Braithwaite of Braithwaite & Katz Communications has contacted me to explain that the sub-standard album cover was sent out to the press in advance of the actual official release.
We apologise but can only comment on what we see.
Happy 21st birthday Ann from a couple of days back. As I say, we only comment on what we see...
Post a Comment