Wolfgang Muthspiel's "Earth Mountain" is a captivating jazz album released in 2008 under the Material Records label. This 51-minute journey through nine original compositions showcases Muthspiel's exceptional guitar skills and his unique compositional voice. Recorded in Austria the previous year, the album features the Wolfgang Muthspiel 4tet, with Jean-Paul Brodbeck on piano and synthesizers, Matthias Pichler on double bass, and Andreas Pichler on drums, the latter two being brothers.
The album opens with "Jackson's Pocket," setting the tone for the intricate and engaging performances that follow. Each track offers a blend of technical prowess and musical sensitivity, from the introspective "Elegy" to the upbeat "Radiohead" and the title track "Earth Mountain." The album also includes the sole non-Muthspiel composition, "Sistah," penned by Brodbeck, adding a touch of variety to the set.
"Earth Mountain" is a testament to Muthspiel's ability to cut loose on faster pieces while also delivering subtle and sonically rich ballad playing. The interplay between the quartet members is evident throughout, making this album a standout in the European jazz scene of 2008. Whether you're a longtime fan of Wolfgang Muthspiel or new to his work, "Earth Mountain" is sure to impress with its dynamic range and musical depth.
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