Customer Reviews

Two of a Kind

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Two rather diverse recordings from Ed Thigpen's early years in Copenhagen. I belonged to the fortunate few that saw the formidable Asmussen/Thigpen Quartet in the small but very famous jazzclub Montmartre from where these recordings are taken. Unfortunately they give only a vague impression of the magic of the evenings (they played there a week or so). But what we get is great fusion inspired jazz. The always adventurous Svend Asmusssen playing his violin electrified and with echoplex and wah-wah. Some fine electric bass from Mads Vinding (Secret Oyster, Burning Red Ivanhoe)and ofc Ed Thigpen driving everything while Kjell Ohman's hammond keeps the harmonies together and also delivers some fine soloes.

The second album Ed Thigpen's Action-Reaction is a far more adventurous jazzrock outing, very much in the vain of Airto Moreira, Weather Report and ofc Miles Davis. With the legendary Palle Mikkelborg all over the place both as trumpetist, arranger and composer. Both Ohman and Vinding are also part of this band, Vinding showing what a great electric player he was before he exclusively turned to the double bass and more conventional jazz. Sabu Martinez (congas) and Carlinhos Pandeiro DeOuro (percussion)gives the latin impression.

Visionary music from a fruitful time in Danish jazz. And take note: this album(s) have nothing to do with Stephane Grapelli.

Top class European mainstream jazz. I actually own edition with additional two songs, but this should be enough... If you like jazz-violin, swing or mainstream jazz, this is the music for you.

Grappelli and his Danish friend bring out the best from one another making this a must-have-or-at-least-hear CD.