Around 6

Album Description

Kenny Wheeler's 1980 album, Around 6, is a seminal work of avant-garde jazz that showcases the trumpeter's unique vision and mastery of his craft. Recorded in August 1979 and released on ECM Records, this sextet features an impressive lineup of musicians, including saxophonist Evan Parker, trombonist Eje Thelin, Tom van der Geld on vibraharp, and a rhythm section comprising J.F. Jenny Clark on bass and Edward Vesala on drums.

The six tracks on Around 6 demonstrate Wheeler's ability to balance intricate composition with free-flowing improvisation, creating a rich and dynamic sound that is both challenging and rewarding. From the opening notes of "Mai We Go Round" to the closing moments of "Lost Woltz", the album is a testament to Wheeler's innovative spirit and his willingness to push the boundaries of jazz.

With its complex harmonies, unpredictable rhythms, and virtuosic solos, Around 6 is an album that will appeal to fans of free jazz and big band music. Wheeler's trumpet and flugelhorn playing are characteristically expressive and nuanced, while the contributions of his bandmates add depth and texture to the music.

Released on 30 June 1980, Around 6 has become a highly regarded and influential album in the jazz canon, and its reputation continues to grow with each passing year. With its unique blend of composition and improvisation, it is an essential listening experience for anyone interested in the more adventurous and experimental side of jazz. Kenny Wheeler's Around 6 is a landmark album that showcases the best of avant-garde jazz and cemented his reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting musicians of his generation.

30 jun 1980

℗ 1980 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Universal Music Classics & Jazz - a division of Universal Music GmbH

About Kenny Wheeler

Kenny Wheeler, born in Toronto in 1930, was a Canadian composer and trumpeter who made the UK his musical home from the 1950s onwards. Wheeler's career spanned over six decades, during which he became one of the most influential figures in contemporary jazz. His music, which defied easy categorization, blended elements of free jazz, post-bop, and big band styles, reflecting his collaborations with a diverse range of musicians such as John Dankworth, Evan Parker, Dave Holland, and Keith Jarrett. Wheeler's distinctive sound and style, inspired by legends like Booker Little and Freddie Hubbard, made him a highly regarded figure in the London jazz scene by the 1960s. Throughout his career, Wheeler recorded over 25 albums as a bandleader and many more as a sideman, leaving behind a prolific body of work that continues to inspire jazz enthusiasts worldwide. His compositions and performances are celebrated for their depth, innovation, and emotional resonance, making Kenny Wheeler a true icon in the world of jazz.