Keith Jarrett

Keith Jarrett’s solo discography is a bottomless pit that he’s been digging out since the end of the ‘60s, with about 25 albums and counting. It’s an ever-changing collection, much like the career of this pianist from Allentown. In 2002, after some serious health problems, Jarrett got back up on stage alone in Japan. Four years later, on 19th July 2006, he’s still alone, this time on the stage of the prestigious Teatro La Fenice, THE great Venetian Mecca for opera. Unlike his past concerts, which consisted of long improvisations of thirty or even forty minutes, he now focuses his performances around shorter pieces that are often linked to each other. Such is the case for this album recorded at La Fenice. Jarrett immediately throws himself body and soul into an ocean of notes, one of his 17-minute improvisations, amazing in its technique and to which only he holds the secret. The atonality collides with highly melodic sequences, jazz and classical music irrigating each of his ideas. Hold on tight or you’ll fall out your saddle! The level of musicality and the originality of his phrasing leaves you constantly fascinated by his unparalleled playing. It’s a language that speaks to everyone, both expert and beginner. And even when he goes off the beaten track to cover My Wild Irish Rose, Blossom and Stella By Starlight, his music is quite irresistible. © Marc Zisman/Qobuz