Ahmad Jamal's 2017 release, Marseille, is a captivating 59-minute jazz odyssey that showcases the legendary pianist's mastery of the genre. Released on 9 June 2017 via Jazz Village, this exquisite album is a testament to Jamal's enduring talent and his ability to craft intricate, cool jazz soundscapes that transport listeners to a world of sophistication and elegance.
Throughout the album's eight tracks, Jamal seamlessly blends hard bop and cool jazz elements, creating a unique sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. From the instrumental opener, 'Marseille', to the soulful rendition of 'Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child', Jamal's playing is characterised by its understated yet profound emotional depth.
The album also features a number of notable collaborations, including appearances by Abd Al Malik and Mina Agossi on separate versions of the title track, 'Marseille'. Other highlights include the beautiful, melancholic 'Autumn Leaves' and the poignant 'I Came to See You / You Were Not There', which demonstrate Jamal's remarkable ability to interpret and reimagine jazz standards.
With Marseille, Ahmad Jamal has created an album that is at once a deeply personal statement and a universal expression of the human experience. It is a work of profound beauty, one that will resonate with jazz aficionados and newcomers alike, and cement Jamal's reputation as one of the most innovative and inspiring pianists of his generation.
Vinylscout
