It’s difficult to understand why music as good as this has lain in the vaults for 20 years, for what we get is the Stanko quartet of the time at the top of its game. The accompanying trio are still intact 30 years later, and regarded as one of Europe’s leading piano led threesomes.
For many, trumpeter Stanko will always be associated with free improvisation, although he always retained a melodic element which singled him out from the pack. On September Night the music has structure, almost totally eliminating any nod towards more chaotic realms. All the compositions are Stanko’s own, apart from Kaetano, a joint effort from the group which turns into a joyous romp, also displaying the trumpeter’s prodigious technique.
Many of the themes are taken down a Latinesque route. This leads to a lot of genuine excitement which is barely evident in the audience response in this recording from Munich’s Muffathalle. The trumpeter is at the top of his game from the opening Hermento’s Mood where he unveils his natural lyricism, including half notes and impressive flurries. If contrast were needed, the following slower-paced Song For Sarah creates an equally impactful atmosphere, featuring the impressive empathy of the group and its undoubted creativity.
Euforila turns into a swinging excursion, unveiling Wasilewski’s versatility in a solo showing stylistic twists and turns. Stanko journeys into the upper register, where he rattles off some exhilarating notes and phrases. His expansive contribution to the appropriately named Elegant Piece equally demands attention, leaving the listener guessing as to his next turn.
If the two frontliners take the spotlight most of the time, neither Kurkiewicz nor Miskiewicz is a shrinking violet. Their presence is never subordinate, the bass always prominent in the mix and gelling beautifully with the inventive rhythms behind it. This is never better illustrated than in the way they navigate Celina and Theatrical – two performances where very note counts.
Wonderful music that should please anyone who enjoys contemporary jazz.
Discography
Hermento’s Mood; Song For Sarah; Euforila; Elegant Piece; Kaetano; Celina; Theatrical (57.55)
Stanko (t); Marcin Wasilewski (p); Slawomir Kurkiewicz (b); Michel Miskiewicz (d). Munich, 9 September 2004.
ECM 6519143
