CRYSTAL BELLS

CHARLIE MARIANO – CRYSTAL BELLS (1980)

 After writing in my previous post that I found it nearly impossible to give a satisfactory definition of Jazz, I came across this statement on someone else’s  blog:

 “Jazz is no stranger to eclecticism. Musicians have been bending, breaking, reshaping, and reincorporating since the very beginning of jazz history. In fact, departing from jazz tradition might as well be the definition of jazz.”

I could live with this definition.  It would certainly have pleased Charlie Mariano.  His albums - and contributions to other people's works, including to a few kraut/prog albums - and his interest in Eastern music amply demonstrate the point.  CRYSTAL BELLS is just one example among many others.  

Charlie Mariano's output is well documented in the blogworld.  Several of his albums recorded during the Seventies, mostly in Europe, have already been posted on various blogs but I do not remember seeing this one.  I do not know of any CD re-issue either.

AMG is very laconic about this album. It just states “Excellent set, with Don Alias first-rate as a percussionist.”.  I won’t disagree with it.  On the other hand, I’m not too keen on Stu Goldberg’s synthesizers sound. 

Another great rip from JC. Thanks mate!

Personnel:

• Charlie Mariano – alto & soprano saxophones, bamboo flutes, nagaswaram
• Stu Goldberg – piano, keyboards, synthesizers
• Gene Perla – bass
• Don Alias – drums, congas, percussion

Titles:

1. Cynthia (Charlie Mariano) 9:34
2. Afreeka (Don Alias) 3:22
3. Crystal Bells (Charlie Mariano) 7:55
4. Telisi Rama (trad., arr. by Charlie Mariano) 8:07
5. Becky (Stu Goldberg) 4:53
6. Turquoise (Charlie Mariano) 9:06

Recorded in December 1979 and mixed in January 1980 by Henrik Lund at Easy Sound Studio, Copenhagen, Denmark

Produced by Kurt Renker.   Released by CMP (Germany) 10 ST

All Charlie Mariano’s fans should visit the Charlie Mariano Tribute Website.