Gjoko Grujovski: Deep Blue

Gjoko Grujovski's sophomore album, Deep Blue, is a compelling showcase of his prowess as a jazz guitarist and composer. All six compositions are originals, brimming with inventive ideas and nuanced playing, which capture the listener's attention from start to finish. Grujovski, alongside bassist Simeon Angelov and drummer Damjan Grujo, exhibits a remarkable chemistry that drives the album's dynamic flow.

While the format is simple—trio music and trio music-making—there is nothing simple about the tremendous display of musicianship, energy and spontaneity that Grujovski, Angelov, and Grujo bring to the table. The opening track, "Zbidnina," is a subtle yet powerful piece in which the main theme is introduced by the bass guitar. The composition starts quietly, gradually building to an energetic climax before calming down to a serene conclusion. "Criminal Mind," the second track, features a pulsating dynamic with an original bass drive reminiscent of punk rock grooves, though it maintains its bebop jazz essence with frenetic solos.

"Forever," the third composition, is an emotional piece with a concealed main theme interwoven within the polyphonic guitar playing. Written in a 7/8 time signature, it reflects the rhythmic nuances characteristic of the region. "Pa-Pa," a lively and quirky tune penned in 1996, showcases a bright spirit and dynamic energy. "OCD" follows with a serene character, its theme intricately entwined within rich harmonic progressions, offering a broad spectrum of sound colors. The album closes with "New Bottom," a jazz ballad played at a slow tempo, lending the album a profound depth. This ballad stands out as the sole solo guitar piece on the album.

Deep Blue is outstanding from start to finish, with all the distinguishing elements of a great jazz session present—expectancy and surprise, improvisation and composition, performed by consummate musicians who give it their all. The music flows pristinely, filled with clarity and naturalness, enriched with subtle expressive touches that highlight the telepathic interplay these musicians share. This album stands as a testament to Grujovski's talent and the seamless collaboration within his trio.