African Flashback

Album Description

"African Flashback" is a captivating journey into the world of French jazz, masterfully crafted by the renowned Henri Texier, alongside Aldo Romano and Louis Sclavis. This album, released in 2005 under the Label Bleu, is the third and final installment in a series that began with "Carnet de routes" in 1995 and continued with "Suite africaine" in 1999. The trio, initiated by the renowned French photographer Guy Le Querrec, draws inspiration from their tour of Central Africa, resulting in a unique blend of jazz infused with African rhythms and textures.

The album features Henri Texier on bass, Aldo Romano on drums, and Louis Sclavis on clarinet, creating a rich tapestry of sound that spans 52 minutes across 13 tracks. Recorded at Studio Gil Evans in Amiens and mixed at Atomic Valve Design Desk in Paris, "African Flashback" showcases the trio's exceptional musicianship and their ability to weave together diverse musical influences. From the haunting melodies of "Berbère" to the upbeat rhythms of "African Panther 69," each track offers a unique perspective on the fusion of jazz and African music.

The album's cover art, featuring photographs by Guy Le Querrec, adds a visual dimension to the musical experience, providing a glimpse into the cultural and geographical inspirations behind the music. "African Flashback" is a testament to the enduring power of jazz to bridge cultural divides and create something truly unique and captivating.

1 jan 2005

2005 Label Bleu

About Henri Texier

Henri Texier, the iconic French jazz double bassist, has been a pioneering force in European jazz since the 1960s. Born in Paris, Texier's journey began at the age of 15, playing piano in nightclubs before transitioning to the double bass, inspired by the likes of Wilbur Ware, Don Cherry, and Ornette Coleman. Over his five-decade career, Texier has not only recorded extensively as a leader but also performed alongside jazz legends such as Bud Powell and Don Cherry. His music is a rich tapestry of influences, reflecting his deep engagement with native American history, African rhythms, and the social echoes of his time, including the tumultuous events of May 1968. Texier's discography, much of which is on Michel Crier’s Label Bleu, is a testament to his enduring creativity and his role as a catalyst for musical adventures, making him a true hero of world jazz. Whether leading his own ensembles or collaborating with other greats, Henri Texier's music is a powerful, intimate dialogue that resonates with the pulse of his unyielding artistic vision.