Many readers would have heard or sang the phrase, "You say potatoe, I say potato..."

That's the impression I get listening to the album. In my opinion, it’s fair to say the overall arrangement leans more towards the folk and operatic genre than jazz. However, I could not say for certain if my European listeners would agree. After all music is all about perception and what the listener experiences. None the less the performances are rich and the compositions well structured. The album would most likely appeal to the more discerning listener.

This album is a recording of the live performance at bee-flat, Bern, Switzerland on April 10th 2016.

The musicians are no strangers to each other as Vincent Peirani worked with Emile Parisien on his last album, Sfumato, also released on the ACT label in 2016. Andreas Schaerer has collaborated with Soweto Kinch and Bobby McFerrin, and started his musical journey as a guitarist in punk band Hektor.  Michael Wollny's discography is impressive and he is widely acknowledged as an accomplished European jazz pianist.

What is truly remarkable is that the quintet only had three days to rehearsal prior to the performance without any prior preparation. It is clear testament to the fact that they are all very natural in the delivery of each arrangement. 

This is a strong and appealing album, and once I realised it was recorded live, I was whisked into a virtual audience soaking up the intense atmosphere created by this talented quartet.  I am still new to this diverse genre and have Emile Parisien to thank for that, along with the staff at ACT. 

Air Song truly does whisk you away, as the title suggests. There is a hypnotic vocal delivered by Schaerer, quite possibly mezzo-soprano and above. I am not a speaker of any other language; however what I can say is that the lyrics are deep and thought provoking.

Peirani has a distinct accordion signature which is often heard when he works with Parisien. Compare B&H with tracks on the Sfumato album and you will consistently pleased. This track has a light up-tempo folk-jazz feel. Combined with Schaerer's interesting melodies, it works well. There is something raw and tribal about it that makes you appreciate this performance. I wish I had been there. Next time!

Easy listening does not get any easier than Kabinette V. There is an interesting combination of folk and jazz which comes into effect in the latter third of this arrangement. Parisien delivers a powerful fluid solo and up to a point, before the piano becomes too strident and harsh!

Rezeusier can best be described as ethereal. The light and airy feel invoked by Schaerer's vocal talent has to be given full credit. This is what I would want to see performed live at the Royal Albert Hall.

My favourite composition of the album is Ukuhamba; again with a light funky-folk vibe, Schaerer delivers a catchy beat-box over the instruments. You can hear why he is in constant demand. In fact why not see for yourself here? 

The question still remains - would I buy this album? And the answer would be yes. But only because I am familiar with Emile Parisien's work. For the new listener, it may take some warming to. 

Musicians:

Emile Parisian - Soprano Saxophone

Vincent Peirani -  Accordion

Andreas Schaerer -  Vocals and Mouth Percussion

Michael Wollny - Piano

Label: ACT