"Speaking Sound," released on January 31, 2020, is a captivating collaboration between pianist Joachim Kühn and violinist Mateusz Smoczyński. This album, released under the ACT Music label, seamlessly blends genres such as gnawa, free jazz, jazz, and krautrock, creating a unique and engaging musical experience. With a runtime of 44 minutes, the album features nine tracks that showcase the duo's mastery of their instruments and their ability to create serene jazz dialogues.
The album opens with "Epilog Der Hoffnung," setting the tone for the contemplative journey that follows. Each track, from the melodic "Maria" to the improvisational "Love and Peace," demonstrates the artists' deep classical roots and their penchant for free improvisation. The album also includes a tribute to Franz Schubert with "Schubertauster" and a nod to the legendary violinist Niccolò Paganini with the track "Paganini."
Joachim Kühn's compositions, which include tracks like "No. 40" and "Glükszahl 23," are complemented by Smoczyński's expressive violin playing. The album was mastered by Klaus Scheuermann, mixed by Jan Smoczyński, and features cover art by Wojciech Fangor. The recording was handled by Gerard Guse, ensuring the highest audio quality.
"Speaking Sound" has been praised for its "wonderful melodic sound" and "transparent jazz dialogues" that harmoniously connect classical traditions with free improvisation. The album's urgency and depth have made it a standout release, earning it the "Recommendation of the Month" in Fono Forum and positive reviews in Good Times. Whether you're a fan of piano jazz, free jazz, or experimental music, "Speaking Sound" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout