Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: The Blue Land is Matthieu Bordenave's follow-up to his ECM trio debut and sees the addition of British drummer James Maddren, enhancing the ensemble's airy textural canvas with a more urgent, animated feel. Pianist Florian Weber's improvisations set the tone, displaying inventive tension and release. Bordenave's saxophone weaves a lyrical narrative, punctuated by bassist Moret and Maddren's perceptively timed contributions. The album strikes a delicate balance between tonal and abstract elements, as heard on the ominous title track and the meditative 'Cyrus.' With nods to Coltrane's 'Compassion"'and Jarrett-like piano, the ensemble delivers an intriguing and collectively expressive set of chamber ensemble pieces.

Review: On A New Day, Italian pianist Giovanni Guidi rekindles his enduring musical rapport with Thomas Morgan and Joao Lobo, while expanding the trio's sonic palette by adding American saxophonist James Brandon Lewis, making his ECM debut. Recorded at Studios La Buissonne in Southern France and produced by Manfred Eicher, the album captures an elevated sense of communication and innovation. Lewis's confident, unmistakable tone introduces new dialects and perspectives, enhancing the group's interplay. The quartet navigates fresh instrumental paths with fluidity, inspired by their deep-rooted partnership and heightened collaboration. The result is a dynamic blend of jazz that explores new textures and ideas, showcasing the quartet's cohesive and adventurous spirit. Guidi's piano, Lewis's saxophone, Morgan's double bass, and Lobo's drums come together to create an album that is both reflective and forward-thinking, making A New Day a compelling new listen for Jazz fans.