Ermitage Italy Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers' unforgettable 1958 concert at Club Saint Germain in Paris is finally available in full, spread across three LPs in red, white and blue, paying homage to France. This set brings together Lee Morgan's searing trumpet, Benny Golson's soulful sax, Bobby Timmons on piano and Jymie Merritt's steady bass, with Parisian local Kenny Clarke joining on drums for 'A Night in Tunisia.' The energy is electric and it's easy to hear why this performance took home the 1959 Grand Prix du Disqueiit's jazz history in action.

Review: This album is a delightful fusion of jazz and bossa nova, led by the legendary Quincy Jones. The arrangements are undeniably top-tier in this legendary album. Jones's ability to inject upbeat energy into classics like 'Desafinado' sets this album apart, offering a fresh take on the genre. The band's tightness and attention to detail elevate every track, with the upbeat rhythms and dynamic arrangements making it perfect for both background listening and those seeking something more nuanced. 'Soul Bossa Nova', forever associated with Austin Powers, is a standout, but other tracks like 'Forgive Me If I'm Late' and 'Desafinado' are equally captivating with their lively tempos and smooth orchestrations. While the album has a commercial edge, it is undeniable that Jones's arrangements shine through. The remastered sound adds clarity, with only a slight oddity in a piano solo, but overall, it's a rich, enjoyable listening experience for jazz and bossa nova fans alike.

Review: Henry Mancini's iconic score for The Pink Panther is an amazing example of the power of music to define cinema. Released 60 years ago, the album's unforgettable melodies have become synonymous with the film and its bumbling detective Inspector Clouseau. The catchy 'Pink Panther Theme' alone remains a cultural touchstone, widely recognized and streamed. Mancini's genius infused the score with a whimsical yet sophisticated flair, mirroring the film's comedic tone. The album's Grammy Award-winning success cemented its place in popular culture, earning a well-deserved spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The 60th Anniversary Edition celebrates the timeless brilliance of Mancini's Pink Panther score. Pressed on vibrant pink vinyl, it offers a nostalgic reminder of the film's enduring charm and the enduring power of Mancini's musical genius.

Review: The latest reissue of a landmark 1957 jazz masterpiece exemplifies the desire and commitment to high-quality vinyl. Pressed using a one-step lacquer process and sourced from original analog tapes, this version stands out for its exceptional clarity, depth and musical detail. Pressed on yellow vinyl, showcases every nuance, from Monk's dissonant piano stylings to the delicate celesta on a standout track. Even on a mid-range setup, the sonic precision is strikingieach note is crystalline, with minimal surface noise. The packaging is top-notch, featuring a cloth-covered slip and a thoughtful booklet with insightful liner notes by Ashley Kahn, enriching the listener's understanding of the recording's complex history. While not inexpensive, the sound quality justifies the price, offering a fresh, dynamic listening experience that captures the essence of the era. For those deeply invested in the evolution of jazz, this reissue serves as both a historical document and an audiophile's delight, offering something new to both seasoned collectors and newer fans of the genre. It's a brilliant presentation of timeless music, executed with meticulous care and precision.

Review: Pink Floyd: Live At The BBC September 1971 (Special Edition) is a classic record that captures the legendary band's mesmerizing performance during a pivotal moment in their career. Recorded at the BBC studios, this special edition release offers a rare glimpse into Pink Floyd's early brilliance on nice pink gatefold vinyl. From the ethereal vocals to the transcendent guitar solos, each track showcases the band's unmatched musicianship and innovative soundscapes. This version has previously unreleased material and enhanced audio quality so is a must-have for any Pink Floyd enthusiasts.

Review: Thelonious Monk's 1958 album Misterioso captures the vibrant energy of his live performances at the Five Spot Cafe in New York City. Known for its intimate setting, the venue highlights Monk's innovative jazz style and the dynamic interplay within his quartet while Johnny Griffin's tenor saxophone adds a rich, fluid counterpoint to Monk's distinctive piano playing with standout solos on tracks like 'Nutty' and 'Blues Five Spot.' The rhythm section with Ahmed Abdul-Malik on bass and Roy Haynes on drums offers a solid foundation that enhances the group's creative exploration and helped earn this album such praise for its innovative approach to jazz.