Eldar Live!
at the Blue Note
(Blue Note – 2006)
by Paula Edelstein
When this 19-year old prodigy took the jazz world by storm several years ago, Eldar Djangirov didn’t realize that he would become one of the most distinctive jazz pianists of his generation. This “live” date at the Blue Note jazz club in New York in 2005 with guest jazz trumpet virtuosos Chris Botti and Roy Hargrove gave him additionally creds with die-hard jazz audiences. and Eldar hasn’t looked back since.
Mature beyond his years, (he’s definitely been here before!) this is one musical experience you’ll truly enjoy. Eldar’s rendition of such great songs as Cole Porter’s “What Is This Thing Called Love,” showcase his astounding technique and command of the piano. Accompanied by Todd Strait on drums and Marco Panascia on bass, this trio has a huge sound that envelops you in an array of sounds and sonic dimensions.
Chris Botti’s charm and delicate take on “You Don’t Know What Love Is,” gives you something to define and think about while Roy Hargrove’s fiery take on Thelonious Monk’s “Straight, No Chaser,” definitely raised bebop’s profile to the top spot on this program. Eldar and Roy play a burnin’ call-and-response section that definitely suggest Eldar’s admiration for Monk and Hargrove’s inimitable array of “dizzying” chops. The set also introduces four original tunes by the pianist of which “Sincerely” is the most beautiful.
Reprinted with permission of…
