Belgian pianist Eric Legnini has a number of albums to his credit. This is a review of his debut album titled Essentiels, released in 1990. Joining Legnini are Jean-Louis Rassinfosse (bass) and Stéphane Galland (drums). Guests include Fabrizio Cassol (alto and soprano saxophone on tracks 2 & 5), Michel Massot (tuba on tracks 2 & 5) and Pierre Vaiana (soprano sax on track 5).
Essentiels is a superb debut album as the band is in tip top shape. One of my favourite qualities is the band’s ability to switch from melodic jazz to some pretty insane free form workouts. The melodies accentuate the avant-garde leanings making them go down a little smoother. A prime example is the fourteen minute “Jeux de cartes”. The music starts out slow with tuba and sax having a wraithlike quality, giving into a slightly dark and calming sound. Then a serious workout between sax and tuba revealing some great licks with the drumming getting more intense. The melodic piano solo softens the piece in just the right amount, washing away any avant intentions. The adventure continues with more wild sax excursions, revealing the dichotomy between improv and composition. A cool elastic like bass over a smattering of drum hits begin “Straight no chaser” before the trio get into some raucous ensemble play. “Naima” is all piano, showcasing Legnini’s creative and diverse skill set. The jumpy rhythms of “This is my New-York” and the incredible drum and bass playing in “Pretext Dance” highlight other stand out cuts.
Essentiels is an excellent debut that should hold much appeal for those into creative jazz music. Released on Igloo Records.
Track Listing:
1. Rien que pour toi (6:47)
2. Jeux de cartes (13:57)
3. Straight no chaser (4:51)
4. Naima (8:16)
5. This is my New-York (7:40)
6. Pretext Dance (7:17)
7. If I should lose you (14:02)
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Belgian pianist Eric Legnini has a number of albums to his credit. This is a review of his debut album titled Essentiels, released in 1990. Joining Legnini are Jean-Louis Rassinfosse (bass) and Stéphane Galland (drums). Guests include Fabrizio Cassol (alto and soprano saxophone on tracks 2 & 5), Michel Massot (tuba on tracks 2 & 5) and Pierre Vaiana (soprano sax on track 5).
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