Search - Martial Solal :: Live at the Village Vanguard

Amazing Octenogenarian

Oldnslow | Seattle, Washington USA | 03/13/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Martial Solal has been one of the finest jazz pianists in the world for some 50 years now. His playing is completely individual, with the total command of a great classical pianist, combined with the fertile imagination of an advanced jazz musician, and with the ability to execute any of his instantaneous flights of fancy. There is no better way to appreciate this unique artist than in a solo setting, as was the case with the only jazz pianist in my opinion who is in his class, Art Tatum. This set of mostly standards at the Village Vanguard, played on an excellent piano and beautifully recorded before an attentive audience, is simply wonderful-- challenging music, but accessible at the same time for anyone willing to listen intently. It is even more amazing when you consider Solal was over 80 when it was recorded! Hopefully this is just the first volume from this engagement, which may constitute Solal's crowning achievement in a great career."