Sunday, August 17, 2014

CD REVIEW: GOLDBERG VARIATIONS/VARIATIONS

GOLDBERG VARIATIONS/VARIATIONS
DAN TEPFER
Sunnyside Records
5 out of 5 stars

One of the most intriguing albums that I have had the pleasure to listen to in recent memory is Dan Tepfer’s take on Bach’s “Goldberg Variations”.    When the piece “Goldberg Variations” comes to mind, we automatically think of the great Canadian pianist Glenn Gould and his landmark recordings in the 1950’s and 1980’s.

Here, Dan not only plays the variations, but on each variation he does a jazz improvisation.    The improvisations echoed Keith Jarrett, Bill Evans, Paul Bley and hints of Thelonious Monk.   


Dan showed impressive command, technique and poise on the piano, plus creative ingenuity through his jazz improvisations of the tune.   Worth the while to pick this one up.  

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