Search - Michael Cain :: Circa

Breathtaking debut!!

08/06/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Boy, ECM and Manfred Eicher don't cease to amaze me with the vast pool of sheer talent that they discover every year. Michael Cain is probably a gemstone in today's music field. His interplay with space, suspension, and melody is incredible. Few pianists are that bold and creative. He definitely has a distinct sound that evokes so many different moods in the listener that you could listen to Michael play for hours without pause. His musical sensibilty and originality puts him easily in the top with some of the best pianists/composers. Jack Dejohnette (whom I love) did great in using Michael Cain in his recent ECM releases. Check out Siegfried And Roy; which is such an amazingly evocative yet very simple piece that reflects Michael's very mature approach to textures and lyricism. Each note carries an indelible emotional impact that leaves you suspended somewhere in deep thought. Ralph Alessi and Peter Epstein are equally very gifted musicians that were obviously the perfect match for Circa. Listen to how they remain focused and tasteful throughout this cd. They never overplay yet they are always present and provide an excellent overall feel to the whole album. This cd is a must in your collection! Once more ECM records proves how jazz can continuously be creative, innovative, fresh and beautiful all at the same time."