It's Me

Dive into the enchanting world of French jazz with Martial Solal's "It's Me," a captivating album released in June 2017 under the Nagel Heyer Records label. This collection of 17 tracks, spanning a total of 1 hour and 17 minutes, showcases Solal's masterful piano playing and his unique approach to jazz, blending traditional and modern elements seamlessly.

"It's Me" features a mix of original compositions and reharmonized classics, including a fresh take on a familiar French tune that Solal claims to have never played before. The album opens with the breezy "A Sunkissed Rose" and takes listeners on a journey through various moods and tempos, from the sultry "Blues Martial" to the upbeat "Jive at Five."

Solal's virtuosity is evident throughout the album, with standout tracks like "Portrait of Django," a tribute to the legendary Django Reinhardt, and "They Say It's Wonderful," a reimagined classic that highlights Solal's innovative reharmonization skills. The album also includes beautiful ballads like "I Remember You" and "Still Waters," showcasing Solal's delicate touch and expressive playing.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Martial Solal or new to his music, "It's Me" offers a delightful exploration of his artistry and his significant contributions to the world of jazz. The album is a testament to Solal's enduring talent and his ability to captivate audiences with his incomparable wit and piano wizardry.

Martial Solal, the legendary French jazz pianist and composer, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his virtuoso improvisations and captivating compositions. Born in Algiers to Algerian Jewish parents, Solal's musical journey began at an early age, nurtured by his mother, an amateur opera singer. He moved to Paris in 1950 to pursue his jazz career, quickly establishing himself as one of France's most acclaimed jazz musicians. Solal's genius is perhaps best known for scoring the iconic film "À Bout De Souffle" by Jean-Luc Godard, but his discography is a treasure trove of jazz masterpieces. His live performances, such as those at the Village Vanguard and Paris Jazz Week, showcase his extraordinary talent and enduring influence on the jazz world. Solal's music is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the art form, making him one of the great figures in post-war international jazz.