"Apartment #5C" is a captivating soundtrack album by the renowned British jazz musician John Surman, released in 2002. This album is a testament to Surman's versatility and mastery of free jazz, offering a unique blend of improvisational brilliance and cinematic storytelling. The soundtrack accompanies the film "Apartment #5C," directed by Raphaël Nadjari, and provides a rich, atmospheric backdrop to the film's narrative.
Recorded in both New York City and London, the album features a mix of live and studio performances, with tracks 1 to 9 captured at Broadway Sound Studio & Vertigo Power Inc. in New York City, and tracks 10 to 13 recorded at Gateway Studios in Kingston-Upon-Thames, London. The diverse recording locations add a layer of authenticity and depth to the music, reflecting the film's cross-cultural themes.
The album's 13 tracks are a seamless fusion of jazz and film score, with Surman's signature saxophone and bass clarinet playing a central role. The compositions range from intense and dramatic to introspective and melancholic, mirroring the film's narrative arcs. Highlights include the opening track "Beginning Credits / Running Away," which sets the tone with its urgent, frenetic energy, and the more subdued, reflective pieces like "Loneliness / The Crime" and "Suite From Apartment 5c - Part 3."
John Surman's collaboration with his son Ben Surman on synthesizers adds a modern, electronic edge to the album, creating a unique sonic landscape that bridges traditional jazz and contemporary sound design. The result is an album that stands out in Surman's discography and offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of jazz and film music.
"Apartment #5C" is not just a soundtrack but a standalone musical experience that showcases John Surman's artistic range and innovative spirit. Whether you're a fan of jazz, film scores, or both, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
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