Review by Judith Schlesinger
This is the Stockholm Jazz Orchestra's salute to tango, which demonstrates, once again, that the only boundaries in jazz are theoretical. This is a superb group of musicians, and arranger Carlos Franzetti has managed to evoke the classic, sinuous rhythms of tango with soulful, atmospheric jazz arrangements that suggest a deep admiration for Gil Evans. "La Ultima Curda" is especially reminiscent of Evans' legendary Sketches of Spain collaboration with Miles Davis. While the inclusion of the traditional, accordion-like bandoneon adds authentic flavor and two compositions — the powerful "Revolutionario" and the haunting ballad "Chiquilin de Bachine" — by tango legend Astor Piazzolla are represented, the overall sound is pure big-band jazz. And very good jazz at that: The arrangements move, change, and build, with ever-flowing lines, interesting tempo changes, and a variety of solo textures. The trumpet solos by Argentinian Gustavo Bergalli, which are featured throughout, are superb. Highlights include the above tracks as well as "El Arrastre," "Los Mareados," and "Tango Fatal," all of which convey the teasing mystery of tango expressed through the sophisticated language of jazz. The CD is also very crisply recorded in every blazing detail, using DSD technology. Lush, luscious, and unusual.
Review by Scott Yanow
For this fine straightahead trio set, the talented if somewhat obscure pianist Shelly Berg performs five standards and seven originals with bassist Lou Fischer and either Randy Drake or Steve Houghton on drums. The music swings in conventional fashion with the highpoints including "Star Eyes," "How Deep Is the Ocean" and "Here's That Rainy Day."
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