Kenny Wheeler - Gnu High (1976)

Tracklist

01 - Heyoke
02 - Smatter
03 - Gnu Suite

personnel :

Kenny Wheeler- flugelhorn
Keith Jarrett - piano
Dave Holland - bass instrument
Jack DeJohnette - drums

The Canadian-born trumpet and flugelhorn player moved to England in the early fifties. He was involved in much of the free music scene there in the sixties. By the time he recorded this, his first title as a leader for ECM in 1975, he was already in his mid-forties. His varied background put him in good and confident stead for this most wonderful album. Keith Jarrett's crystalline playing is a gorgeous counterpoint to Wheeler's arching lines. The three Wheeler compositions also show him to have a firm, yet understated way with extended melodies and rich harmonies. His tone can vary from a mysterious and dark growl to a warm and inviting cheer. For a rhythm section, one can't do much better than drummer Jack DeJohnette and bass player Dave Holland (for whom Wheeler is also a key player on many of his albums). This is beautiful music, full of rich rewards, and highly recommended.