On
being approached to write the liner notes, I felt myself very honoured at having
the chance to be a part of this wonderful adventure. And I use the word "adventure"
advisedly for the music here is not the kind that you can use as a background
while you do other things. Instead here is a music with the power and strength
to carry you outside of yourself, to transport you through space on the wings
of the big beautiful sound of Jim Pepper's saxophone. But
let me, if you will, now turn the spotlight on the architect who bas fashioned
this tremendous structure of sound. Her name Claudine François and she is totally
involved in music. From the opening majestic theme of Enlightment through the
rhythmically interesting Les Tortues, the playful treatment of Monk's Crepuscule
with Nellie, the open free approach to Hurray for Herbie, she is completely on
top of the situation. She
has with her two of the best rhythm sidemen in the world Jazz today. I speak from
experience because besides having the same birthday (although another year) we
also have been using the same rhythm section consisting of the fantastic Ed Schuller
and the formidable John Betsch. And last but definitely not least is the wonderful
warm Jim Pepper. With
this album Claudine François has graduated "cum laude" into the world of great
Jazz musicians. Welcome Claudine! Mal
Waldron (for the leaflet of Camargue) |