Mal Waldron
Plays Eric Satie
Baystate (Japan) 1984
FEX-27-B (LP) w/insert.
sleeve : VG+(TEOC)
media : EX+/EX+(some slightly noise.)
An album released in 1984 by American pianist Mal Waldron, who remained at the forefront of jazz for nearly five decades—from the 1950s through the early 2000s. At our shop, his astonishing jazz-rock album The Call, issued as the very first release on the Japo label, is a particular favorite. This release is a Japan-only project by Teichiku Records, devoted entirely to the music of Erik Satie. Recorded in 1983 at Teichiku’s Suginami Studio, the album features a trio with Reggie Workman (b) and Ed Blackwell (ds). Waldron had previously hinted at Satie’s influence—performing a piece dedicated to Satie on On Steinway (1972), and presenting Satie-evoking compositions on the 1967 soundtrack Sweet Love, Bitter. Here, however, his fascination with and respect for Satie are expressed most directly, with interpretations of Satie’s works including the celebrated “Gymnopédies No. 1.” The result is a deeply engaging and highly intriguing listen.
A2: Harmonies
B1: Essais
B3: 3 Gu,mopedies No.1