Jacky Terrasson:

By

JIM SANTELLA,

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor - Since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

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Published: April 1, 2001

Every nation has its country music. Paris brings to mind cabaret, modal folk melodies, lively dances, classical tradition and hot jazz. Jacky Terrasson looks at Paris from each angle. With acoustic guitarist Bireli Lagrene, the title track simmers in the hot, summertime climate Terrasson knows so well. Guitarist and pianist team up again on "I Wish You Love," with Fender Rhodes taking the familiar melody. After all, Paris does have a reputation for romance. Cole Porter's "I Love Paris" gets a facelift when Terrasson alternates piano with Rhodes to create unexpected changes in direction. "La Vie en Rose," as well, takes a turn for the unique. Piano and percussion give the ballad a hard-charging samba drive. Terrasson's powerful bass notes serve to intensify the street band marching atmosphere. Fender Rhodes enters the picture briefly and converses with piano. While not a classic rendition of this pearly gem, the leader reminds us that he's willing to take big risks in order to explore. As a whole, the album settles on the many facets of French popular song while eschewing an allegiance to improvised music. The take of "I Love Paris" that Terrasson used on his 1994 eponymous debut album by far exceeds what he's done here. Most of the 14 tracks limit the length of the music; thus, extensive improvisation takes a back seat. Several tunes are allotted a mere minute or two. It's not enough to adequately honor the great French popular songbook. Terrasson has shown that he's willing to take risks, but not all risks turn out well.

Track Listing: Plaisir d'amour; Les chemins de l'amour; Jeux interdits (Forbidden Games); A Paris; I Love Paris; Que reste-t'il de nos amours? (I Wish You Love); Ne me quitte pas (Don't Leave Me); La Vie en Rose; Nantes; La Marseillaise; Rue des Lombards; L'aigle noir; I Love You More; M

Personnel: Jacky Terrasson- piano, Fender Rhodes, rainstick on "Nantes;" Stefano di Battista- alto saxophone, soprano saxophone; Bireli Lagrene- guitar; Gr

Record Label: Blue Note Records | Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream