Customer Reviews

Flamingo

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It used to be my yardstick: If I found myself humming along after a few cuts, then the music had me. That's certainly the case here. Two old masters -- now both regrettably gone -- still at the top of their form. I play this CD over and over, listen intently, or just put it on for background for any activity. You will treasure this CD in your collection even if you don't like jazz -- even if you don't like music!

Ihad the chance, some years ago, to listen to a Grappelli's live concert in London: the impression was that violin was actually able to give Grappelli a new kind of life, the moment he would just look at it. Conversely, the hall was soon filled by notes absolutely out of the ordinary: simply, really nothing can compare to taht kind of experience. Petrucciani also was a monster (I could only watch-listen to some concertoes on TV), and every square millimetre of his piano was litterally in love with his incredible hands. This album sees both beloved monsters playing, loving together, and surelly will make you love some kind of music to be to my opinion considered immortal.

Stephane and Michel will simply astound you on this very fine outing. With countless imitators covering the music made famous by Grappelli and Rhinehardt during the hey-day of their Hot Club of France, this one really stands out. Inventive, swinging and always tasteful, it will be spinning for a long time on your CD player. Regretfully both are gone, but this record is testament to their glorious chemistry together. Buy it, trust me, you'll love it!

This highly listenable CD features swing violin legend Stephan Grappelli and pianist Michel Petrucciani as soloists on a program of jazz standards. As with Keith Jarrett's Standards trio, the deservedly familiar melodies serve as launch pads for joyous, interactive improvisations. Both Grappelli and Petrucciani shape solo statements that are inventive and memorable: you can sing them after a few listens. There is a lightness of spirit that pervades the album. George Mraz on bass and Roy Hayne on drums provide responsive support. The jazz virtues are in evidence here.

Quite simply, one of the most brilliant and serene jazz albums ever recorded. Two geniuses, now both sadly no more, at the height of their powers, effortlessly bridging their generation gap,in a joyous,melodic and totally accessible celebation.An essential album!