Karl Berger, Dave Holland - All Kinds Of Time (1976) [vinyl]

Relatively few of Karl Berger's recordings have been made available in the U.S. (he has lived most of his life in his native Germany), but this Sackville release has generally been one of the easier ones to acquire. A set of rather dry duets with bassist Dave Holland, Berger is heard interpreting five of his originals on vibes, piano and balafon, showing originality and taking chances on each of his instruments. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

As per usual Scott’s ears are very conservative, relying heavily on his love of pure-line jazz. Listeners that wish to explore improvisational avenues will well appreciate this outing, enjoy! 

Sackville Records, 3010, 1976
Recorded 26th April, 1976 at Thunder Sound, Toronto, Canada 

Musicians:
Karl Berger - Piano, Vibraphone, Balaphon
Dave Holland - Bass 

Tracks:
A1. Simplicity (7:58)
A2. Perfect Love (4:03)
A3. Fragments (9:20)
B1. The Beginning (5:08)
B2. Now Is, D'Accord, All Kinds Of Time, We Are (15:55) 

All Compositions by Karl H. Berger 

Total Time: 42:24 

Credits:
Producers - Bill Smith, John Norris
Recording Engineer - Phil Sheridan
Cover [Batik] - Cloe, Karla & Natasha Smith
Cover Photography & Art - Bill Smith

Jim Galloway, Dick Wellstood & Pete Magadini - Three Is Company

For fans of the old school...

Here's an exciting and engaging performance by three pillars of Dixie influenced jazz. This live LP was recorded at the legendary, but long defunct Blues Alley jazz club in Toronto, Canada.

This trio really bring something special to this set of Dixie and swing tunes. Dick Wellstood is all he can be, delivering all at once a bedrock of rhythm and high flying antics. I think it's fair to say that although this album carries Galloway's name as his first release, it's Wellstood's incredible skills that bring it all together.

That said, Galloway definitely adds a really special flavour with some exciting and fresh interpretations. Although Magadini clearly understands the role of his instrument, he is able to break free on a few occasions with ample space provided by his bandmates. After You've Gone shows us why this drummer was selected for this gig, and was one of the hottest drummers in Canada when he first broke out.

Overall I think you guys will enjoy this more modern take on some familiar material. The fidelity is top notch, and my copy is near mint with only a couple of audible blemishes. Sackville was a true mark of jazz quality in every regard conceivable.

Ripped at 24/44.1 wav and dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC...  Enjoy!!!