May 2012
“Let me tell you how much I treasure this Danish recording. I bought the vinyl of this back somewhere around 1978-79 and it became one of my favorite “unique” albums instantly. I knew of Anders because I had collected a few Savage Rose albums that he was the keyboardist and co-founder of.”
Reviewed by Lee Henderson
March 2012
“I’ve yet to find anyone else who is able to produce music that is just like this infusion of jazz, classical, exotic, soundtrack instrumental ambrosia with a combination of elegantly created , and sometimes conflicting winter and summer. The music is able to make you feel the chill, and at the same time sense the warmth. I can hear slight carnival playfulness in Anders’ organ in songs like “Lost City Arts” (track 6) yet also some slightly masked gospel influences. Kenny’s piano work is simply great usually giving twinkling ornamentation to the song at hand. Benjamin’s sax playing is ultimately reserved, being placed at the most tasteful spots. The playing is impeccable as expected from each person. Jacob sometimes is more a ghost with his percussion. You get fooled very quickly with this music. You can think it is all simple then it has passed you by and you failed to pick up all the parts that were being presented. I loved listening to this multiple times to gain things I missed the previous listen.”
“I’d say these four musicians are a perfect match for this CD. I can’t wait to hear another recording. Recommended!!”
Reviewed by Lee Henderson
”Danish pianist’s first Hammond organ release. He rounds out a quartet with multi-reedist Benjamin Koppel, pianist Kenny Werner, and percussionist Jacob Anderson. A recording with soaring melodies interspersed with dissonant rhythms. The pairing of Koppel’s organ and Werner piano is absolutely sublime, especially on the song “Lost City Arts.” Fans of the ECM catalog should definitely be checking this out, as should anybody that likes chill-out jazz with some kick. Highly Recommended.”
March 2012
”At times, it sounds like a poetry reading has broken out at a church gospel revival. Anders Koppel’s declarations on organ trading shouts with his son’s lyrical cadence on sax, while Werner’s piano indulges in clever word play as Andersen repeatedly builds tension with gradually rising tempos to get ‘em up out of their pews.”
Dave Summer, musicisgood.org
“Koppel and Werner is a flawless team, that bring out the best of each other. The two virtousos sets high demands from one another and also from their sidemen. Through their joy for playing they manage to play in a relaxed way, which opens up for the free improvisation. As listeners we’re invited inside of the music, and it’s hard to leave again.”
Niels Overgård, Jazznyt.dk
Read the full review in Danish here
