St. Louis Blues

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde jazz landscape with Aki Takase's "St. Louis Blues," a captivating album released in 2001 under the Enja Horst Weber label. This 52-minute journey through free jazz and avant-garde territories features Aki Takase on piano, accompanied by an ensemble of exceptional musicians including Nils Wogram on trombone, Fred Frith on guitar, Rudi Mahall on bass clarinet, and Paul Lovens on percussion. The album is a testament to Takase's innovative approach to jazz, blending traditional blues elements with contemporary improvisation.

"St. Louis Blues" offers a rich tapestry of sounds, from the haunting melodies of "Morning Star" to the experimental textures of "Eine Drehorgel aus dem 21. Jahrhundert." The album's title track, "St. Louis Blues," appears twice, each version offering a unique interpretation that showcases the band's versatility and depth. Other standout tracks include the playful "Wer kommt mehr vom Blues" and the introspective "Nur da wo du bist, da ist nichts."

Takase's piano playing is both virtuosic and deeply expressive, while the supporting musicians contribute layers of complexity and innovation. Fred Frith's guitar work is particularly noteworthy, adding a distinctive edge to the album's sound. The interplay between the instruments is seamless, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience.

This reissue of "St. Louis Blues" is a mid-price gem, providing an accessible entry point into the world of avant-garde jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate with its unique blend of tradition and innovation.

1 januari 2001

2001 Enja Records Werner Aldinger

About Aki Takase

Aki Takase is a pioneering Japanese jazz pianist and composer who has made a significant impact on the global music scene. Born in Osaka in 1948, Takase began playing piano at the tender age of three and honed her skills at the prestigious Toho Gakuen Academy in Tokyo. Her musical journey took her to Germany, where she spent many years, and later to Berlin, which became her long-time residence. Takase is known for her innovative approach to jazz, blending it with classical and avant-garde elements to create a unique and captivating sound.

Her discography is a testament to her versatility and creativity, featuring works like "St. Louis Blues," "Hokusai - Piano Solo," and "Goldfish." One of her standout projects is "Carmen Rhapsody," where she masterfully reimagines Bizet's iconic opera, merging opera and adventurous jazz. This project showcases her ability to push musical boundaries and offer fresh interpretations of classic works. Takase's music is not just about notes and rhythms; it's about storytelling and emotional depth, making her performances a must-experience for any jazz enthusiast.