"Blackbird Bye Bye" is a captivating fusion of jazz and spoken word, featuring the evocative poetry of Wallace Stevens brought to life by the distinctive voice of Jan Erik Vold. Released in 2012 on Hot Club Records, this album is a unique collaboration with renowned guitarist Bill Frisell and bassist Arild Andersen, who provide a rich, atmospheric backdrop to Vold's recitations.
Recorded live at the Kongsberg Cinema during the Kongsberg Jazz Festival in July 2010, "Blackbird Bye Bye" captures the essence of a live performance, with the energy and spontaneity that comes with it. The album was edited in September 2011, ensuring a polished final product that retains the authenticity of its live origins. With a duration of 54 minutes, the album includes 12 tracks, each offering a blend of jazz and poetry that is both soothing and thought-provoking.
Jan Erik Vold, a Norwegian lyric poet and jazz vocal reciter, brings his extensive experience and unique style to this project. His collaboration with Bill Frisell and Arild Andersen results in a harmonious blend of music and poetry, where the jazz melodies complement and enhance the poetic narratives. The album is a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty that can emerge from the intersection of different artistic disciplines.
"Blackbird Bye Bye" is a standout release in Jan Erik Vold's discography, marking his first jazz and lyric collaboration of the 2000s and his first with an American musician since his work with Chet Baker. The album is a celebration of poetry and jazz, offering a fresh and engaging listening experience that showcases the talents of all involved. Whether you're a fan of jazz, poetry, or both, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
