Search - Jan Garbarek :: It's OK to Listen to the Gray Voice

Exceptional music

Miko | New York | 02/28/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Gray Voice contains all the hallmarks of a great Jan Garbarek disc- the mystery, the passion, the bridging of many worlds. It, however, remains my favorite. It contains some of the best ensemble playing of any Garbarek album that I can recall. A lot of these tracks seem to materialize slowly out of thin air and then take you on a journey that will leave you breathless. Special kudos to guitarist David Torn, who has never been more suited to his surroundings. A lot of the powerful mood of this disc is a direct result of his interaction of Garbarek's compositions. And Eberhard Weber's fluid yet substantial bass never disappoints, as always. All the tracks seem knitted intricately to one another; yet all maintain an individuality on their own. This is a great place to start if you don't own any of Jan Garbarek's music."

Jan's best album

Clark Battle | Seattle, WA United States | 02/10/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've had this album since 86 and it is as refreshing now as it was when I first heard it. I have a half dozen Jan albums and this is definitely the best. I also have every David Torn album and this is his best work too. Theres some fantastic solos and bass work by E Weber. Great melodies, atmospheric and edgy at the same time. Definitely start here!"

Enjoying the creative process

jim | lakeland, florida United States | 04/23/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"you know , sometimes it is said that one can really hear an artist enjoying themselves . having listened to a lot of jan's recordings and having read many self appointed experts characterize sessions in which they felt jan was particularly inspired (don't we read that too much from critics) , i'm pleased to report that all involved commited a wonderful and truly joyous project to the ages . it's not about pinning jan's style down . if you dig it or are curious because jan touched you while doing one of his many ecm sideman gigs , come on in . in the tradition of other excellent garbarek projects (see: i took up the runes , star , rites , ect) this is a truly collaborative effort . there is ample room for all to strech out and do what they do best . unlike some other exclusively reflective albums jan has either led or participated in , the sounds here range from grooving to joyous to searching to jangling to spacily lilting , with lots of terrific comping and passion from all the clearly thrilled members . this touring band was together for some time , and it shows . not just great playing , with lots of contrasting style , but highly enjoyable songs too . all fans of ecm and jazz and especially jan should have this gem in one format or another . rockin' , jazzin ' jammin' , wonderous , i can assure you this will reward many listenings . a different and essential jan outing that captures good friends playing great tunes . highly recommended ."