"Transylvanian Concert" is a captivating live album that marks the ECM debut of Romanian pianist-composer Lucian Ban, accompanied by the renowned American violist Mat Maneri. Recorded during a tour and released on May 13, 2013, this album is a testament to the unique musical chemistry between Ban and Maneri, offering a blend of self-penned ballads, blues, hymns, and abstract improvisations.
The album features six tracks, each performed live, showcasing the duo's mastery of free jazz. Lucian Ban's compositional prowess and Mat Maneri's expressive viola playing create a sound that is both intimate and expansive. The tracks range from the introspective "Not That Kind Of Blues" to the evocative "Harlem Bliss" and the haunting "Nobody Knows The Troubles I've Seen," demonstrating the duo's versatility and depth.
Produced by Lucian Ban and Steve Lake, "Transylvanian Concert" is a must-listen for fans of free jazz and those seeking to explore the boundaries of improvisational music. The album's 55-minute runtime is a journey through soundscapes that are as thought-provoking as they are beautiful, making it a standout release in the ECM Records catalog.