Tomasz Stanko is a famous Polish trumpet player/bandleader, who has been active on the European jazz and free-jazz circuit since the 1960's, also putting in time with acclaimed musicians such as Michal Urbaniak, Jack DeJohnette, and Rufus Reid, among others. His latest ensemble project Wolnosc B Slerpniu (Freedom In August) features a host of supporting musicians, who complement the hazy, lazy trumpet melodies of Stanko quite nicely. The feel is somewhat in the style of late 50's Miles Davis circa his Sketches in Spain era with Gil Evans. Songs like "Ballada Powstancza (Rising Ballad)" and "Piesn Nadziel (Hope Song)" sees the trumpet master laying down plenty of smoky melodies, supplemented by tasty jazz piano, lush strings and orchestrations, and meditative rhythms. Elements of progressive fusion can be heard on the soul searching "Piesn Ruin (Crash Song)", while "Dee" just simply floats along with some gorgeous piano and trumpet lines. Overall though Wolnosc B Slerpniu basically plays like a quick EP, as it's not quite 30 minutes long, and by the time you get through all six pieces you'll wish there was more. Stanko has a huge number of releases under his belt that have come out over the course of his career (check out his website for a complete list), so chances are if you like this you'll be eager to explore more.
Track Listing
1 Wolnosc W Sierpniu (Freedom in August) (6:35)
2 Piesn Nadziel (Hope Song) (3:23)
3 Ballada Powstancza (Rising Ballad) (5:27)
4 Piesn Ruin (Crash Song) (2:52)
5 Dee (6:12)
6 Pisen Kanalów (Song of the Sewers) (3:31)
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