This is a classic ECM record, reminiscent of the early sound that the German label and its principal producer Manfred Eicher developed back in the seventies. The motto under which all the artists have recorded for ECM is “the most beautiful music next to silence.” a slogan that best describes the chamber-jazz genre which practically evolved from the label. Although Eicher secured several already established names when he created ECM, such as Keith Jarrett, Art Ensemble of Chicago, or Mal Waldron, he also gave a lot of space and launched the careers of several, now legendary, European musicians. One of those then-aspiring artists is the Norwegian guitarist and composer Terje Rypdal. He made his debut for ECM with his eponymous second solo album in 1971 and remained one of the most loyal artists, releasing almost all of his recorded music for the label.
In 1978 Rypdal recorded a joint effort with bassist Miroslav Vitous and drummer Jack DeJohnette, which was released the next year for the ECM label. The album is registered simply as “Terje Rypdal/Miroslav Vitous/Jack DeJohnette,” and represents one of the most exciting ethereal music out there. It’s so light and airy, and yet so fierce, especially in the busy, but spacious DeJohnette’s drumming. Miroslav Vitous shows all of his talents and creative superiority, sounding almost like an electric guitar when he bows the double bass. Rypdal is superb, throwing soundscapes around, soloing with extraordinary imagination and brilliant technique. When the record was released, it immediately gained the attention, and soon after, the reputation of an outstanding album. The Allmusic reviewer Paul Collins awarded the album 4½ stars stating "An otherworldly soundscape of aching beauty, this album is a must-have for aficionados of any member of this trio." Enjoy!
