Jan Garbarek / Bobo Stenson / Terje Rypdal / Arild Andersen / Jon Christensen – Sart

An oft overlooked and underrated early ECM release. While certainly containing moments of spontaneity and improvisation, the compositions consist of more harmonic movements and melodic passages than the free jazz label might intimate. There is a definite quietude present in the recordings, often falling between synchronized movements and individual instrumental explorations and while the music lacks the energy and orchestration to adequately place itself in any fusion, jazz-rock or related category, Rypdal’s electric guitar work accompanied by Stenson’s occasional use of electric piano definitely dip a precocious toe into the early waters of the former. The first five opening notes of the title track “Sart” lend credence to this association and this less traditional approach is complimented by some of Garbarek’s more adventurous playing.

The production and sound quality is of course immaculately balanced and near flawless as is to be expected with any ECM recording, particularly from the early 10xx catalog.