Koop - Waltz For Koop

This LP may have turned into a 'coffee table classic', much in the same vein that Sade's "Diamond Life" did in the mid-eighties, but this shouldn't be taken as an excuse for instant turn-off by listeners.

The main aim of Koop on this album is to add a twist to the 60's jazz-bossa sound. By using subtle melodies that solicit the carefree environ of the time and including soulful key changes any artist would be proud of, this they achieve in abundance.
You only have to listen to the opening title track "Waltz For Koop" to have some understanding for their position on things. The track invokes a feeling of uncertainty as it strolls along in a gentle 3/4 time. It brings obvious reminiscences of summer, whilst one imagines any of a number of French Nouvelle Vague arthouse films about difficult love affairs, or such like.

Modal is strong here too. Along with fellow contempories, Gerardo Frisina & Nicole Conte, who have referenced Sahib Shihab on many a production of theirs, the track "Soul For Sahib" has the vigour & balance of any of the mans work.

"Relaxin' At Club Fusion" does what it says on the proverbiable tin. Play this in a club, and your audience will love you forever (well...certainly at least for that night)!

Overall a very enjoyable LP that will easily be able to be pulled out and listened to in the decades to come.

Pretentious, tuneless cash-in attempt by crossdressing swedes. Hiring Terry Callier, much like anyone who's looking for instant credibility these days, doesn't help.
This is all polish and shine, no grit no soul.
Unless you really do enjoy music that is made solely to fit nicely in you B&O hifi, beware of this.