Notes from the Heart: Music of Keith Jarrett

by Ken Dryden In spite of the success of pianist Keith Jarrett over his long career, his compositions generally have not been explored very frequently by other jazz musicians. Guitarist Ulf Wakenius, recognized for his work as a leader and being a member of the Oscar Peterson Quartet, explores 14 of Jarrett's works, playing acoustic guitar and occasionally overdubbing a rhythm line. He's accompanied by Lars Danielsson (who plays bass, cello, and piano) and drummer Morten Lund. The relaxing ballad "Memories of Tomorrow" is a gentle bossa nova that translates very well into a guitar-driven vehicle. "The Windup" is a playful calypso with a touch of funkiness, while Danielsson's spacious piano provides the perfect complement to Wakenius in the duo performance of the bittersweet ballad "Mon Coeur Est Rouge." Lund's drumming is consistently attentive and never overdone. For jazz fans who have never embraced Keith Jarrett's music, this brilliant tribute to his compositions may open their ears to appreciate his lyrical, often striking style of writing.