Recorded live at the 1988 JVC Jazz Festival in New York City's iconic Town Hall, "9.11 pm Town Hall" captures a stellar ensemble of French jazz virtuosos led by the renowned Swiss drummer and composer, Daniel Humair. This album is a testament to the power of live jazz performance, featuring an all-star lineup that includes Michel Portal on saxophones, clarinet, and bandoneon, Martial Solal and Joachim Kühn on pianos, Jean-François Jenny-Clark on bass, and Marc Ducret on guitar.
The seven-track album, released on June 29, 1988, under the Label Bleu, showcases the musicians' exceptional improvisational skills and deep musical chemistry. Humair's dynamic drumming drives the ensemble through a diverse set of compositions, ranging from the free-form exploration of "From Time to Time Free" to the bluesy grooves of "Alto Blues" and the intricate interplay of "Medley." Each track offers a unique perspective on the band's collective virtuosity, highlighting the individual talents of each musician while maintaining a cohesive and engaging sound.
"9.11 pm Town Hall" is a captivating snapshot of a historic live performance, offering jazz enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the energy and spontaneity of a live concert. The album's duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes provides ample time to immerse oneself in the rich textures and intricate melodies that define this exceptional gathering of jazz masters. Whether you're a longtime fan of Daniel Humair or a newcomer to the world of French jazz, this live album is sure to captivate and inspire.
