Hungarian Bebop

Archie Shepp's "Hungarian Bebop" is a captivating fusion of jazz traditions and Eastern European influences, released in 2002 on BMC Records. This 55-minute journey through free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop features Shepp's signature raw and expressive tenor saxophone, complemented by the Mihály Dresch Quartet. The album seamlessly blends Hungarian folk music and European academic elements with Afro-jazz, resulting in a unique and swinging sound that sets it apart in Shepp's discography.

The album opens with "Lily of the Valley," a track that showcases the contrast between Dresch's precise, Coltrane-inspired tenor lines and Shepp's characteristic bleary smears. "Búzal Song" features a tender and empathetic duet between the two saxophonists, while "Steam" highlights Shepp's self-effacing soprano playing on his own ballad. The album's title track, "Hungarian Bebop," brings together all the diverse influences, creating a fiery and elegiac atmosphere that is both powerful and introspective.

Throughout "Hungarian Bebop," Shepp and the Mihály Dresch Quartet demonstrate their exceptional musicianship and ability to blend disparate musical styles into a cohesive and engaging whole. The album is a testament to Shepp's enduring influence on the jazz world and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of Archie Shepp or a newcomer to his music, "Hungarian Bebop" is an essential addition to any jazz collection.