TWO SCORE YEARS AGO…Keith Jarrett: Sun Bear Concerts Piano Solo

Recreated from the original analogue tapes, this 10-lp, limited edition set features Keith Jarret’s 1978 tour of Japan in solo format, and he was in an inspired mood. All of the “songs”, except for the encores, range from 30-40+ minutes, with each having its own mood that is carried out artfully and gracefully the entire opus. From Kyoto, there is a rich flow of pulsations and melody to the first, while the second song is a darker, plunging attack. The  pair of pieces from Osaka range from a lyrical, folksy patter with changed dynamics to a gorgeous journey ascending and descending the hills. From Nagoya, dreams and pleadings in the uppermost register of the keys  contrast to the almost singer/songwriter tune that sounds like something from Billy Joe. Tokyo has Jarrett in an almost Harry Nilssonish mood, soft and reflective, with bluesy late night atmospheres in Sapporo. The more concise encores range from a romantic Tokyo to a more pulsating Sapporo. This is like looking into the synapses of a brilliant mind, set to music.

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