Gardony, Laszlo: Signature Time

Hungarian born Laszlo Gardony is a fantastic pianist which he so ably demonstrates on his new album Signature Time. Gardony has been around the block a time or two having worked with some of the greats in the industry like Randy Brecker, the late David Newman and Dave Holland. On his new album Laszlo's outstanding musicianship is matched with John Lockwood (bass), Yoron Israel (drums, vibraharp) and Stan Strickland (tenor saxophone, vocals).

On Signature Time Gardony's playing is fluid, dynamic and tonally exquisite and is some of the nicest I have heard all year in the world of jazz. His ability to combine rhythmic complexity with a pure melodic sensibility is totally absorbing. Elements of post-bop, New Orleans jazz and various other styles make Signature Time a highly intriguing and extremely satisfying listen.

The album contains ten compositions; six originals and four re-workings including intriguing versions of The Beatles' classics "Eleanor Rigby" and "Lady Madonna", both featuring Gardony's fluid piano fills and added complexity.

Other highlights include the pretty "Silent Words", a relaxing piece with a more delicate nature and the memorable "Spirit Dance" featuring the chant-like vocals of Strickland which hint at native American mysticism and add an interesting layer to the mix.

While all the songs are strong my favourite is the breathtakingly beautiful "Under The Sky" where Gardony's piano and Israel's vibraphone is an intoxicating mixture of ethereal tones and dreamlike atmospheres.

Signature Time is a record that oozes class from beginning to end and is a great example of what contemporary jazz should strive to be. If quality musicianship and stellar ensemble playing is what you seek, Signature Time should fill that void quite nicely.

Track Listing:
1. With You At The Bridge (6:26)
2. On African Land (4:34)
3. Lady Madonna (4:25)
4. Lullaby Of Birdland (5:49)
5. Silent Words (4:32)
6. Johnny Come Lately (5:42)
7. Under The Sky (4:31)
8. Eleanor Rigby (4:50)
9. Spirit Dance (3:43)
10. Bourbon Street Boogie (4:45)

Added: November 24th 2011
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 2059
Language: english

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