Martial Solal, the renowned French jazz pianist, teams up with the virtuoso Michel Portal for an enchanting album set to release on August 21, 2025, under Warner Classics. This collaboration promises a rich tapestry of French jazz, blending Solal's intricate piano work with Portal's masterful command of various instruments, including the clarinet and saxophone.
The album features 14 tracks, each offering a unique blend of contemporary jazz styles. From the morning jog-inspired "Footing du matin" to the evening's "Footing du soir," the album captures the essence of different times of day. Tracks like "Grapes" and "James" showcase the duo's ability to infuse familiar themes with fresh, innovative arrangements. The album also includes a series of ballads, "Ballade n° 1" and "Ballade n° 2," highlighting their lyrical and expressive prowess.
With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, the album offers a comprehensive journey through the collaborative genius of Solal and Portal. Their previous works, such as the 1992 release under the same name, have set high standards, and this new album is poised to continue their legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this album is a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the creative synergy between two of its most celebrated artists.
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