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Vivian Buczek: Roots
On Roots, Buczek teams up with saxophonist Seamus Blake, Martin Lundgren on trumpet and flugelhorn, Martin Sjöstedt on piano, Jasper Bodilsen on bass, and Morten Lund on drums. All of the musicians offer impressive performances here, and there is quite a variety of jazz styles featured, which is not surprising considering Buczek's background.
She was born in Sweden, and both her parents were Polish-born jazz musicians. Buczek grew up immersed in both Polish and Swedish culture along with a healthy dose of jazz. Being an only child, music was always, as she describes, her closest friend. She began singing as a child, and her passion for music eventually led her onto the global stage.
From listening to Roots it is easy to see how different musicians have influenced her, and she loves a wide variety of jazz music. There are hints of singers such as Annie Ross and Sarah Vaughan here, but her own sound is certainly not derivative. Buczek has her own unique voice, which is certainly impressive.
While there are original compositions included, she also features classics such as "Nature Boy" and a vocalese version of Bill Evans' "Waltz for Debby/Monicas Vals" sung in both English and Swedish. She also features more contemporary compositions by artists such as Stevie Wonder and Pat Metheny.
One of Buczeck's major influences, however, is Ella Fitzgerald. She even recorded a tribute album called Ella Lives (Prophone 2017). Although Roots is not another tribute, it is easy to see elements of Ella here. Fitzgerald frequently used her voice not only to carry a song's melody but also to improvise lines as well. In a similar fashion, Buckzek uses her voice much as another instrument in the ensemble, creating improvised lines which weave melodically along with the other players.
The music on Roots is satisfying throughout. From beautiful ballads such as "Who Are You?" and "Always And Forever" to all-out swinging songs such as "The Jody Grind" or "What Now?" this is an album which has plenty to offer. While this is her most personal album, it will probably be a personal favorite for many listeners.
Track Listing
Visions; Who Are You?; Devil May Care; Fly Away; Always And Forever; The Jody Grind; Waltz For Debby / Monicas Vals; The Meaning Of The Blues; What Now?; Nature Boy; Better Days Ahead; Jej Portret (Her Portrait)
Personnel
Additional Instrumentation
Martin Sjöstedt: piano; Morten Lund: drums.
Album information
Title: Roots | Year Released: 2022 | Record Label: Prophone Records
About Vivian Buczek
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