My Song

Throughout the '70s Keith Jarrett maintained two contrasting ensembles, one American based, the other Scandinavian. This is an album by the latter quartet, which had previously recorded the warm and winning BELONGING in 1974. 1978's MY SONG is aptly titled, as the six Jarrett compositions do indeed have the individual characteristics and bearing of songs. Infused with elements of folk and gospel, the music has a friendly resonance that aligns it with the likes of Horace Silver. While not as overtly soulful as Silver, the quartet's interpretations celebrate the power of melody and harmony. Garbarek's crystalline tone in particular flies through the rhythmic architecture like a bird over a winter landscape.