Pekka Pylkk: Opaque (2000)

C. MICHAEL BAILEY,

C. Michael Bailey

Senior Contributor since 1997

...wants to know if Gene Harris is playing "Summertime" in Heaven...

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Published: November 1, 2001

More contemporary jazz from Pekka's Tube Factory.

Pekka's Tube Factory (Naxos Jazz 86028) was released in 1999. It was one of the first contemporary jazz releases by the then brand new label. Now Pekka Pylkkänen is back with another notable collection of razor sharp contemporary jazz. Pylkkänen, once again, blows through his variety of winds on this collection of mostly his originals. The mood is upbeat and exploratory. The most notable in performing is guitarist Pekka Luukka, who adds a decided edge to the festivities. His soloing is taut and controlled. Keyboardist Mikkonen helps Pylkkänen steer his Scandinavian ship through the opaque waters of this collection. This is music of dark density, mystery and invention. It is full of whimsy, but it is a serious whimsy. If the listener liked Pekka's Tube Factory, they will like Opaque.

Track Listing: Donnerwetter; Wallaby's Dance; Lumi; TomCat; Black Pearl; The Picture of Dorian Gray; Balinese Wedding Song; Hilipata; Un Trou Dans la Boue (Total Time: 54.57).

Personnel: Pekka Pylkk