Jimmy Giuffre – Western Suite

With Tony Fruscella (MOVLP2788) one of the best jazz reissue from the year. First side is the unique instrumental, compositional, improvisational work. I can realize it like chamber suite for small orchestra. It´s also emotional expression of musical feeling and musicianship, clearly definable after third or fourth listening. The "folk" motives are combined with almost "Gershwin" melodies and rhythm. The artists complement each other nicely through whole album. I like also inventional Topsy recorded stright with almost live or jam session sound. Monk song has also bluesy, unconventional spirit. I recommend to listen the record with eyes closed to feel atmosphere and excellent sonical quality of pressing, which is very silent. Plenty of details like, breathing, stomping or even tape bliss helps to enjoy this masterpiece. The trio sounds like recorded on two microphones from distance, imitate mono sound. Anyway clear, natural and fortunately equipped by dynamic reserve. Highly recommended reissue.

Now for something else: Wonderful album without a rhythm section. A clarinet, saxophone, trombone and guitar.
The cover art is very nicely done. The music itself sounds a bit muffled and lacklustre to me but that could be the original take. No other version to compare it to. There is some hissing background noise on side one (Western Suite). Overall a nice addition to have for just 20 euros.