Customer Reviews

Duo En Noir

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This is a gorgeous CD. Ran Blake is one of the most innovative and yet emotionally accessible pianists around. I have nothing bad to say about this music, which was recorded live, before an audience who didn't seem to like it as much as I did, except that it's a gyp - at 38 minutes out of a possible 74 it's much too short.

Ran Blake's wonderful new CD "Duo en Noir" presents a valuable addition to the his older recording "Film Noir". In his new release, Blake evokes the shifting moods of the characters in the Hitchcock,Preminger and other films of that era.Through his piano, Blake invests the same struggle that is felt by each character as they grapple between the good and evil in each movie's plot. The romantic atmosphere of the screen is brought to life with the help of Enrico Rava on trumpet whose "Certi Angoli" brings a Fellini magic to the set. The addition of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" and Vincent Youman's "Tea for Two" bring elements of hope to the otherwise more mysterious puzzles that make up the film noir tradition.

Ran Blake's wonderful CD "Duo en Noir" presents a valuable addition to his older recording "Film Noir". In his new release, Blake evokes the shifting moods of the characters in the Hitchcock,Preminger and other films of that era. Through his piano, Blake invests the same struggle that is felt by each character as they grapple between the good and evil in each movie's plot. The romantic atmosphere of the screen is brought to life with the help of Enrico Rava on trumpet whose "Certi Angoli" brings a Fellini magic to the set.The addition of Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" and Vincent Youmans's "Tea for Two" bring elements of hope to the otherwise more mysterious puzzles that make up the film noir tradition.

Exceptionnally crafted music recorded in a live performance, by two outstanding musicians.
This performance is also a delightful trip around 20th century American music, spanning from the tradition to the avant garde jazz, with constant references to an array of American Songbook themes. I absolutely recommend this CD to every broad minded music lover. You must listen to this!!! It's a must!