Fred Hersch - Alive at the Village Vanguard (LP)

Fred Hersch's latest masterpiece, Alive at the Village Vanguard, is a captivating duo performance that showcases the extraordinary chemistry between the renowned pianist and the virtuosic vocalist Esperanza Spalding. Recorded live at the iconic Village Vanguard, this album is a testament to the magic that unfolds when two master musicians come together.

With a career spanning decades, Fred Hersch has established himself as a veteran performer known for his lyrical standards work, while Esperanza Spalding has made a name for herself with her highly conceptual and genre-bending albums. Despite their differing styles, the pair has convened for a handful of performances in New York City since their first meeting in 2013, and the result is nothing short of astonishing.

Alive at the Village Vanguard, released on 6 January 2023 via Palmetto Records, features a carefully curated tracklist that highlights the duo's inventive and expressive playing. From the opening notes of "But Not for Me" to the final moments of "A Wish", the album is a journey through the nuances of jazz, with each track showcasing the pair's ability to bring out distinctive aspects in each other's playing.

With a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, the album is a masterclass in intimacy and electrifying performances, capturing the essence of a live show while maintaining an understated beauty that is characteristic of Fred Hersch's work. The nomination for two Grammy Awards - Best Jazz Performance and Best Jazz Vocal Album - is a testament to the album's excellence, and a reminder that Fred Hersch's annual releases are always something to look forward to.

Featuring a range of tracks, including "Dream of Monk", "Little Suede Shoes", and "Girl Talk", Alive at the Village Vanguard is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and fans of Fred Hersch and Esperanza Spalding. With its release, Fred Hersch has once again proven himself to be a master of his craft, and this album is sure to be a highlight of 2023.