Customer Reviews

Bach: The Brandenburgs

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Loussier and his trio have produced recordings of Bach that are absolutely mandatory. He has a gift for producing something between free improvisation and the original work that must be experienced. Yet in this recording his gift for going right to the heart and theme of the music takes away much of the power of the original Brandenburg concertos. He makes excellent music but the six hands of his trio are incapable of reproducing the staggering complexity of the Brandenburgs. These concertos are quite unlike Bach's concertos for solo instruments or even concertos for multiple keyboards--the Brandenburgs weave multiple themes each from a unique grouping of instruments. Of necessity, Loussier's trio homogenizes the work--complexity is the soul of Bach and in an interpretation that must, of necessity, compromise thematic elements, the soul of the concertos is lost.

Loussier's interpretations excel when he adds to the work being interpreted rather than simplifying the work as in this interpretation. When he takes a concerto for a solo instrument and adds the bass and drums the richness of Bach's original is preserved and highlighted in a new and intriguing way.

Still, even Loussier's less-successful work is head and shoulders above 99% of the feeble reinterpretations of the great master. Loussier understands Bach, loves Bach and provides an angle on Bach's music that should be part of any library; however, don't start with this one.

I have always loved the Brandenburgs, but this treatment is excellent. I first heard this in the car, and called to get the performer and CD ID. Listening where I could really pay attention was more rewarding. Lousssier has adapted Bach with flair, and made it new again. Bravo.

The more I listen to this CD, the more I enjoy it. It certainly doesn't replace the more traditional performances of the Brandenburgs. They show the complexity of the music better. But to my ears, this Jacques Loussier interpretation brings out the lovely melodies more. Very nice.

This album has some interesting arrangements in that using a jazz trio to perform the pieces is an intriguing concept. The performances are strong, and I have enjoyed the CD altogether. I think the idea holds up best in the faster, more energetic pieces like Tracks #3 and #13.

AWESOME.... I love the Brandenburgs and I love jazz. The idea of doing Bach as a jazz piece exceeds all expectations.

Get it.