"The Unbelievable Truth" is a captivating live album by the legendary saxophonist Elton Dean, recorded in Paris just months before his passing in 2006. This album showcases Dean's enduring brilliance and resilience, capturing a powerful performance with his band, The Wrong Object. The seven-track album, released on Moonjune Records in 2007, is a testament to Dean's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the free jazz genre.
The album opens with "Seven for Lee," a complex and intricate piece that highlights Dean's alto saxophone prowess, weaving endless patterns that keep the listener engaged. "Millennium Jumble" follows, showcasing the band's dynamic interplay and improvisational skills. Each track offers a unique blend of textures and rhythms, from the playful "Baker's Treat" to the intense "A Cannery Catastrophe."
Dean's saxophone is the heart of the album, but the supporting cast of Michel Delville on guitar and vocals, Laurent Delchambre on drums, Damien Polard on bass, Fred Delplancq on tenor sax, and Jean-Paul on another sax, creates a rich tapestry of sound. The album's title track, "The Unbelievable Truth," is a standout, featuring Dean's signature saxophone style against a backdrop of intricate percussion and guitar work.
"The Unbelievable Truth" is a powerful addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a glimpse into the final performances of a jazz legend. The album's duration of one hour and eight minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the world of free jazz, with each track offering a unique perspective on Dean's musical genius. Whether you're a longtime fan of Elton Dean or new to his work, this album is a compelling introduction to his unique style and enduring legacy.