Eddy Louiss, the renowned French jazz organist, delivers a captivating performance with his 2001 album "Face to Face". Released under the Dreyfus Jazz label, this album is a testament to Louiss' mastery of the French jazz genre, blending it seamlessly with traditional jazz elements. The album spans a concise yet engaging 59 minutes, featuring 13 tracks that showcase Louiss' virtuosic skills and his ability to evoke a range of emotions through his music.
"Face to Face" opens with the lively "Sang Mêlé" and continues with a mix of original compositions and tribute tracks, such as "Tribute to Joe Diorio" and "I Remember Clifford". The album also includes a beautiful rendition of the classic "Sous le ciel de Paris", demonstrating Louiss' versatility and his deep connection to French music. The tracklist is a delightful blend of upbeat numbers like "Beija-Flor" and "Berimbau / Sermao", and more introspective pieces like "Amandine" and "Framboise".
Eddy Louiss' organ playing is the heart of this album, with his warm, resonant tones and intricate improvisations drawing the listener in. He is joined by a talented ensemble that includes guitarist Jean-Marc Jafet and drummer Jean-Paul Céléa, creating a rich, dynamic sound that highlights the best of French jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Eddy Louiss or a newcomer to his music, "Face to Face" is an album that will leave a lasting impression.