Longitude

Martial Solal, a titan of French jazz, presents "Longitude," a masterclass in piano trio excellence released in 2008. At the age of 80, Solal's virtuosity and innovative spirit are on full display, making this album a standout in his extensive discography. Recorded in April 2007 and released on Cam Jazz, "Longitude" features ten captivating tracks that showcase Solal's unique blend of French jazz and avant-garde sensibilities.

The album opens with "Slightly Bluesy," setting a tone that is both familiar and fresh, followed by the evocative "Here's That Rainy Day." Solal's composition "Longitude" and the whimsical "Vous Avez Dit?" highlight his knack for creating intricate, engaging melodies. The album also includes beloved standards like "Tea For Two" and "The Last Time I Saw Paris," reimagined with Solal's signature flair.

"Longitude" is a testament to Solal's enduring talent and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz. The album features the exceptional rhythm section of François Moutin and Louis Moutin on bass and drums, respectively, providing a solid foundation for Solal's improvisational genius. Each track is a masterclass in jazz piano, with Solal's fingers dancing across the keys, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.

With a duration of just 44 minutes, "Longitude" is a concise yet powerful collection of jazz that will captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to Martial Solal's music. The album's blend of classic standards and original compositions, along with Solal's impeccable technique and creative vision, make "Longitude" a true gem in the world of jazz.

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.