Kalimba

"Kalimba" is a captivating musical journey released by the renowned German pianist Joachim Kühn, in collaboration with Moroccan musician Majid Bekkas and Spanish drummer Ramón López. This album, released on April 27, 2007, under the ACT Music label, is a unique blend of gnawa, free jazz, jazz, and krautrock, spanning a total of 62 minutes across 10 tracks.

The album kicks off with "A Live Experience," setting the stage for an eclectic mix of traditional Moroccan gnawa music and contemporary jazz. Majid Bekkas' mastery of the guembri, vocals, oud, kalimba, and percussion, combined with Joachim Kühn's virtuosic piano playing and Ramón López's dynamic drumming, creates a rich tapestry of sounds that transcends cultural boundaries.

Highlights include "Hamdouchi," a track that showcases the intricate interplay between Bekkas' guembri and Kühn's piano, and "Kalimba Call," a mesmerizing piece that features the kalimba prominently. "Youmala" and "Rabih's Delight" offer a more upbeat tempo, while "Sabbatique" and "Dounia" provide a contemplative contrast. The album concludes with "White Widow," a powerful and energetic finale that leaves a lasting impression.

"Kalimba" is a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration, offering a unique listening experience that blends the soul of Spain and the mysteries of North Africa. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or a fan of world music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Joachim Kühn, born in Leipzig in 1944, is a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his profound and expansive piano playing that has shaped the landscape of European jazz for over five decades. Initially trained as a classical pianist, Kühn's journey took a pivotal turn when he succumbed to the allure of jazz, forging a unique path that blends improvisational brilliance with a deep musical intellect. His influences range from the classical compositions of J.S. Bach to the avant-garde sounds of Ornette Coleman, reflecting a diverse and rich musical heritage. Kühn's discography is a testament to his versatility, spanning genres from free jazz and krautrock to the traditional and experimental. Whether performing solo or with his dynamic trio featuring Thibault Cellier on bass and Sylvain Darrifourcq on drums, Kühn's performances are always a journey into the depths of musical expression. His legacy is marked by numerous awards and collaborations, making him one of the most influential figures in contemporary jazz.

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About Joachim Kühn

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