PASODOBLE by Lars Danielsson & Leszek Mozdzer

24 Apr

Written by Glenn Astarita
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Veteran Swedish bassist/composer Lars Danielsson aligns with blossoming young Polish pianist Leszek Mozdzer for an affair that pronounces a sense of intimacy as an additional vehicle for vast expressionism. Glisteningly recorded at a Swedish studio, you can discern every detail and nuance throughout. Consisting of lovely melodies performed with a soft touch, the duo frequently engages in rapid unison choruses amid some movements that touch upon classical concerto elements. At times somber, the artists also generate peppery themes, often spiced with subtle overtones and flailing crescendos. As they integrate depth and finesse into these works spanning folk-drenched dirges, lullabies, and intricately resolved jazz motifs.

On the title track, Danielsson generates a soft rhythmic element by tapping his bass strings in support of Mozdzer’s buoyant voicings. And with the piece titled "It’s Easy With You," Danielsson uses his cello as a sweetening agent for his partner’s nimble progressions. One of the highlights of this disc pertains to the musicians’ ability to perform within, and maintain a level-playing field. The intuitiveness they generate along with the overriding aura of these works presents a colorific set of ideas and enactments. In sum, they seem to have attained a deep-rooted comprehension of each other’s traits and stylizations; not to mention a deeply focused mode of execution that offers a mark of distinction. Musical personalities contract, expand and become magnetized during the preponderance of this irrefutably satisfying endeavor.

Additional Info

Artist / Group Name: Lars Danielsson & Leszek Mozdzer
CD Title: PASODOBLE
Genre: Various Jazz Styles
Year Released: 2007
Record Label: ACT
Musicians: Lars Danielsson (cello, bass), Leszek Mozdzer (piano, celesta, harmonium)
Label Website: http://www.actmusic.com
Rating: Three Stars