Tete Montoliu & Peter King - New Year's Morning '89 (2022)

Over the years, “Cova del Drac” in Barcelona was the scene of memorable concerts by some of the best jazz players who visited the city. The one that took place in the early morning of January 1, 1989 was especially remarkable. During the Christmas holidays, 17-year-old trumpeter Gerard Presencer had joined the Tete Montoliu Trio in concerts all over Barcelona. In the meanwhile, Peter King had flown in on December 29 to fulfill Tete's long-standing wish to perform with the kinetic English alto player. An inspired and totally spontaneous decision brought the two horn players together (for the first time!) and with Tete's magnificent trio, a dynamic quintet coalesced the night of the 31st.

Gerard had always been a huge fan of Peter King, and the good rapport between Gerard and Tete was obvious, so the circumstances seemed perfect. Everyone gave their best, showing an explosive collective spirit, with passionate performances and meaningful jazz improvisation in this splendid free-blowing date in the bebop mold. — Jordi Pujol