Viktor Kurinnyy - Under the Linden Tree Under the Fly
Jazz, Instrumental
Ukraine
Overall Impression: Ukranian composer Viktor Kurinnyy serves up smooth contemporary jazz with a nostalgic twist, on his release of "Under the Linden Tree Under the Fly". Inspired by a favorite restaurant in pre-war Kyiv, this composition is highlighted by wistfully elegant melodies played on piano and tenor saxophone, with upright bass and lightly brushed drum kit providing a solid rhythmic foundation. Kurinnyy captures warmly cherished memories with this piece, as well as the deep melancholic sadness of war-torn Ukraine. Jazz fans will appreciate the expressive melodies and crestfallen tone of Viktor Kurinnyy's "Under the Linden Tree Under the Fly".
Strongest Point(s): Excellent production, solid mix. Gorgeous composition, good structure. Rhythm section works well together. Lovely falling chord progression in both the A section and B section, allows for beautiful melodic content. Wonderfully understated saxophone tone and technique, adds another intriguing voice. Love the counter melodies and harmonies in the final section, where the piano and sax really come together. All in all, this is a terrific track and a tremendous composition that manages to express feelings of both deep sadness and warm nostalgia with equal significance and emotional weight. Fantastic work here, from top to bottom!
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Jazz, Contemporary Instrumental, Smooth Jazz
Artist target suggestions: Bill Evans, Ahmad Jamal, Jon Batiste, Paul Desmond, Stan Getz, Dexter Gordon, McCoy Tyner, Fred Hersch, Dave Brubeck, Robert Glasper, Kamasi Washington, Terrace Martin, Esperanza Spalding, R+R=Now, Dinner Party
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About the Reviewer:
Steven Azami is a multi-instrumentalist with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Both as a touring/session player and as a producer, his career has spanned nearly every genre from bluegrass to jazz, from rock to reggae. In addition, his work as a music educator has allowed him to cultivate and foster talent within the next generation of musical explorers.