| Jazz |
When one receives an album from a jazz titan such as Peter Erskine, one cannot help but rejoice, knowing that Peter Erskine, like so many others of his caliber, has shaped the history of contemporary jazz through his collaborations with the best of the best: Maynard Ferguson, followed by his groundbreaking work with Jaco Pastorius in Weather Report, a group with which he recorded five albums. Later came collaborations with luminaries such as Freddie Hubbard, Joe Henderson, Chick Corea, Bobby Hutcherson, Joe Farrell, and George Cables. In New York, he expanded his artistic reach, working with Michael Brecker, Mike Mainieri, Eddie Gomez, Eliane Elias in Steps Ahead, as well as John Scofield, Bill Frisell, and many more. The list could undoubtedly be extended indefinitely, for Peter Erskine’s artistic prowess is recognized on a global scale.
The Vienna JAM Music Lab All-Stars pay homage to the music of two iconic Viennese composers who, upon emigrating to Hollywood in 1929 and 1934, revolutionized the film industry by setting new standards for movie scoring. Through their work on Gone with the Wind, King Kong, and countless other classics, they have played a monumental role in shaping popular culture.
It was in the late 1970s, while touring with Weather Report, that Erskine first encountered this music. Hearing Joe Zawinul play a beautiful melody, he learned it was composed by Korngold, another Viennese luminary. Deeply moved, Erskine embarked on a journey to uncover scores and recordings of this music. His artistic residency at Vienna’s cutting-edge JAM Music Lab University finally allowed him to bring this music to life in an improvisational jazz setting, realizing a long-held dream.
This album encapsulates Erskine’s vast experience as an artist—his meticulous attention to the composers’ intentions, his care in interpreting these works, and, above all, his modern vision of musical expression. At moments, Erskine’s playing rivals that of the greatest percussionists, delivering an extraordinary performance on the drum set. His artistry combines extraordinary intelligence and delicate finesse, creating a soundscape that captivates the listener.
Reimagining works of such profound depth as those presented here is no easy feat. As one listens, folkloric passages occasionally emerge, demanding a modern perspective that transcends the original context. This project is the result of extensive research, improvisation, and rewriting, requiring both a deft and assured touch to achieve such a formidable artistic undertaking.
If one track—or perhaps two—could encapsulate the essence of this album, Concerto Miniature and Romance would undoubtedly stand out. One must take the time to savor these pieces, for each sound is carefully placed to guide the listener through diverse musical worlds. This collection of works, akin to a novella or a romantic novel, unfolds in a series of chapters that the listener cannot easily put down. It invites repeated exploration, each encounter revealing new delights. Suffice it to say, this album earns a well-deserved place among our “Essentials.”
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, January 3rd 2025
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