Keith Jarrett - Luminessence (Jan Garbarek)

Information

Composer: Keith Jarrett

1. Numinor
2. Windsong
3. Luminessence

Jan Garbarek, saxophone

Strings of Südfunk Symphony Orchestra

Mladen Gutesha, conductor

Date: 1975 / 2025

Label: ECM Records

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Luminessence captures a compelling moment in the creative partnership between Keith Jarrett and Jan Garbarek, recorded in 1974 shortly after their acclaimed Belonging album. The recording showcases Jarrett’s shimmering, orchestral compositions, which provide a rich framework for Garbarek’s intensely focused and expressive saxophone performances. Critics praised the deep musical rapport between the two artists, noting how Jarrett’s written melodies resemble Garbarek’s improvisational voice. Widely acclaimed upon release, the album was recognized as a landmark of 1970s jazz. Produced by Manfred Eicher, this audiophile edition includes new liner notes offering valuable historical context.

Jan Garbarek, born in Mysen, Norway, in 1947, emerged as a leading voice in European jazz after early inspiration from John Coltrane and Dexter Gordon. By the 1960s, he had established himself as a prominent bandleader and collaborated extensively with theorist George Russell. Joining ECM Records in 1969, Garbarek began a distinguished recording career, gaining international recognition in the 1970s through his work with Keith Jarrett’s European Quartet. Incorporating Norwegian folk elements into jazz, he developed a highly individual style. Landmark projects such as Officium further expanded his influence, blending jazz improvisation with early and sacred music traditions.

High Resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz