René Urtreger - Premier rendez-vous (LP)

"Premier Rendez-Vous" is a captivating jazz album by the renowned French pianist René Urtreger, released in 2017 under the naïve jazz label. This 13-track collection is a delightful blend of French jazz and traditional jazz, showcasing Urtreger's masterful piano skills and his ability to create a rich, engaging soundscape.

Collaborating with vocalists Agnès Desarthe and Géraldine Laurent, as well as bassist Pierre Boussaguet, saxophonist Simon Goubert, and drummer Alexis Lograda, Urtreger delivers a sophisticated and intimate musical experience. The album features a mix of standards like "The Man I Love" and "Body and Soul," as well as lesser-known gems like "La géante" and "Le foin," all infused with Urtreger's unique touch.

With a runtime of 55 minutes, "Premier Rendez-Vous" offers a diverse range of moods and tempos, from the sultry "Everything Happens to Me" to the lively "Bouncing with Bud." Urtreger's deep connection to the jazz tradition, particularly his admiration for Bud Powell, shines through in his playing, making this album a treat for both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.