Search - Jacques Loussier :: Plays Debussy

Masterful Jazz Renditions of Debussy

02/28/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"OK- So Debussy hated the term 'Impressionism', but that's what stuck to his style, so that's what we call it...So, on to this CD... The Jacques Loussier Trio play exceptional jazz renditions of more than a handful of Debussy greats, such as Claire de Lune, Arabesque, and L'Apres midi d'une Faune. This is an incredible accomplishment considering some of Debussy's original pieces, such as "L'Apres midi..", were almost entirely devoid of beat and consistent measure. One would assume that such an undertaking would produce garbage, but whoa- here the Trio has created delicious and highly-professional, polished jazz. The Jacques Loussier are not new to this kind of transmogrification of classical into jazz, some of their other CD's are devoted to jazz renditions of Bach and Vivaldi (Four Seasons). The trio consists of piano, bass, and drums. Each carry their distinctive instrumental essences with complexity yet smoothly and with soul. Taken together, the chemistry of the trio is sublime. Sumptuous!"

Joyful

greg toro | a place | 10/31/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Let me just say that these renditions of Debussy's works are an absolute pleasure to listen to. While listening to the album, I realized that many of these pieces could be mistaken for actual jazz compositions, probably because Debussy's music lends itself (more than, say, mozart's) to numerous interpretations. The "Impressionistic" (i know, i know) style of the pieces gives them much more interesting harmonic sequences and opporunity for improvisation. But the most important thing here lies not in the 'novelty' of the jazz feel, but in Loussier's loyalty to the original magical quality of Debussy's music. The entire album is beautiful and sparse without being too simple or forced. Claire de Lune simply lilts, especially when the trio reverts to the original 9/8 meter. All in all, a great album, but not a replacement for Debussy in any way. Only get this if you at least moderately enjoy jazz. Or Debussy. Or good music."

"you complete me"

Tuang Tuangthong | bangkok,thailand | 02/21/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I love classical music,but this recording amazes me.It's a perfect marriage of jazz and classical--body and soul.This cd is enjoyable to listen to because of the imaginative arrangement and superb musicianship.The sound quality is fresh and alive.Each track is a gem.After listening to this cd,you will understand what I mean when I say "you complete me"."