Guamba

Album Description

"Guamba" is a captivating jazz album released by the renowned bassist Gary Peacock on September 1, 1987, under the prestigious ECM Records label. This album is a testament to Peacock's mastery of the double bass and his ability to lead a group of exceptional musicians through a series of intricate and engaging compositions.

Joining Peacock on this musical journey are saxophonist Jan Garbarek, known for his magisterial power and expressive playing, trumpeter Palle Mikkelborg, who brings a unique blend of trumpet and flugelhorn to the table, and drummer Peter Erskine, whose versatile and innovative approach to rhythm adds depth and dynamism to the ensemble. Recorded in March 1987 at the Rainbow Studio in Oslo, Norway, "Guamba" showcases the collective prowess of these four artists, each contributing their distinctive voice to create a cohesive and compelling musical experience.

The album spans seven tracks, each offering a unique blend of jazz and free jazz elements, with a total runtime of 44 minutes. From the opening solo performance of "Guamba" by Gary Peacock to the hauntingly beautiful "Requiem" and the lively "Thyme Time," the album takes the listener on a journey through a diverse range of moods and styles. The inclusion of "Introending" adds an intriguing twist, blending the beginning and end of a musical piece into a single, seamless experience.

"Guamba" is not just an album; it's a collaboration of four brilliant minds coming together to create something truly special. The interplay between the instruments is remarkable, with each musician pushing the boundaries of their respective instruments and exploring new sonic territories. The production quality is top-notch, thanks to the expert engineering of Jan Erik Kongshaug and the insightful production by Manfred Eicher.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Gary Peacock or a newcomer to his work, "Guamba" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. It's a celebration of improvisation, creativity, and the power of collaboration, making it a standout release in the ECM Records catalog and a highlight of Gary Peacock's illustrious career.

1 september 1987

℗ 1987 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Gary Peacock

Gary Peacock was a pioneering American jazz double bassist whose career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Born in 1935, Peacock's journey in music was marked by his collaborations with some of the most influential figures in jazz. He is perhaps best known for his longstanding work with the Keith Jarrett Standards Trio, which he was a part of for over thirty years, recording more than twenty albums with the group. His playing, characterized by its buoyancy and harmonic sensitivity, earned him admiration from peers and critics alike.

Peacock's discography includes a dozen albums under his own name, showcasing his sophisticated and forward-thinking approach to the double bass. He was a key contributor to both traditional jazz and free jazz, with notable recordings featuring avant-garde saxophonist Albert Ayler, as well as pianists Bill Evans, Paul Bley, and Marilyn Crispell. His work with these artists highlights his versatility and deep understanding of jazz, making him a true giant of contemporary jazz double bass.