"Gotham Goodbye" is a captivating jazz album by the renowned pianist Franck Amsallem, released on 20 September 2019 under the Jazz & People label. This collection of eight original compositions, plus a rendition of Harold Arlen's "Last Night When We Were Young," serves as a heartfelt farewell to New York City, where Amsallem spent two decades honing his craft alongside jazz legends.
Recorded at Studio Sextan in October 2018, the album features a stellar quartet comprising Franck Amsallem on piano, Cuban tenor saxophonist Irving Acao, Viktor Nyberg on bass, and Gautier Garrigue on drums. The ensemble delivers a dynamic and soulful performance, showcasing Amsallem's distinctive French jazz style and his deep musical chemistry with his bandmates.
The tracks, ranging from the introspective "From Two to Five" to the lively "Hamsa," offer a rich tapestry of moods and rhythms, reflecting Amsallem's versatility and depth as a composer and pianist. "Gotham Goodbye" is not just a musical farewell to New York but also a testament to Franck Amsallem's enduring love for jazz and his remarkable contributions to the genre. With its engaging melodies and impeccable performances, this album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and a fitting tribute to the city that never sleeps.
Vinylscout