1951-2001, Fifty Years of Creativity

Album Description

"1951-2001, Fifty Years of Creativity" by Hans Koller is a captivating journey through the decades-long career of one of jazz's most innovative figures. Released in 2001, this album spans a variety of styles, from cool jazz to free jazz, and even touches on krautrock, showcasing Koller's versatility and enduring creativity. The 15-track collection features a mix of live performances and studio recordings, offering a comprehensive overview of Koller's musical evolution.

The album opens with "Come Back to Sorrento," a lively and upbeat number that sets the tone for the eclectic mix to follow. Standout tracks like "Idaho," "Skylark," and "Goofing" highlight Koller's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with more experimental sounds. The inclusion of "Hommage á Webern" pays tribute to the composer Anton Webern, demonstrating Koller's deep respect for classical influences.

"1951-2001, Fifty Years of Creativity" is not just a retrospective but a celebration of Hans Koller's enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. With a total duration of just over an hour, it's a perfect introduction to the diverse and innovative world of Hans Koller.

1 dec 2001

2001 Gabriel Music

About Hans Koller

Hans Koller is a renowned jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, born in Landshut, Germany, and based in London since 1991. With a musical lineage—his father was a jazz-loving Lutheran pastor and his mother a music teacher—Koller's journey in music began early. He has since created a substantial body of over 70 original compositions, recorded in sixteen critically acclaimed albums. Koller's work is celebrated for its intelligence and vivacity, often compared to jazz greats like George Russell and Gil Evans. His projects, such as the Charlie Parker-themed "Word from Bird," showcase his ability to blend mind and body in music, making him a standout in the jazz world. Whether leading his own ensembles like Free Sound and International Brass Company or collaborating with fellow musicians, Koller's contributions to jazz are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.