"Appleblueseagreen" is a captivating jazz album by pianist Alex Koo, released in February 2019 under Clever Tree Records. This 48-minute journey features a stellar lineup, with Alex Koo on piano, Mark Turner on saxophone, and Ralph Alessi on trumpet. The album's title is a poetic phrase that hints at the evocative and introspective nature of the music within.
The record opens with a trio of tracks—"enuD," "Dune," and "Funeral March"—that set a contemplative and cinematic tone, drawing the listener into a world of deep, ruminative sadness. Throughout the album, Koo's compositions weave together intricate melodies and harmonies, showcasing the exceptional interplay between the three musicians.
"Appleblueseagreen" is not just a collection of songs but a cohesive exploration of sound and silence. The album's twelve tracks, including standout pieces like "Ghost Parade," "Etude No. 1 'Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall'," and the whimsical "Apples Are Blue but the Sea Is Green," demonstrate Koo's unique compositional voice and his ability to blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences. The album was engineered by Ryan Streber at Oktaven Audio and Yi-Wen Lai-Tremewan at Dolan Studio, ensuring a polished and immersive listening experience.
"Appleblueseagreen" received critical acclaim, including a spot on Downbeat's Best Albums of the Year list, solidifying Alex Koo's status as a rising star in the jazz world. Whether you're a longtime jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty of improvisation and the power of collective expression.
Vinylscout