Benoit Delbecq - Nu-turn '2003

Tracks list

In the manner of a mathematical and mineral reverie, Nu-turn achieves something
vital. As rarely happens, a purely contemplative abstraction is combined with a
lyricism all the more touching for not giving off its savor immediately, but
secretly calling us to itself... The abstract is made palpable... There is also,
and above all, a nocturnal choreography beautiful as an enigma... An album freed
from all heaviness. 

Though he has been one of the avatars of prepared piano for over a decade,
Benoit Delbecq has only now released a solo album. Nu-Turn (Songlines) is well
worth the long wait, a strikingly well-defined recording featuring an immaculate
Steinway D piano. Throughout the album, Delbecqs affinity for African and Asian
folk music (which is most vividly evident in the timbres created by his
driftwood preparations, which suggest indigenous percussion and string
instruments) and his Paul Bley-derived lyricism and floating pulse constantly
dovetail about one another. This accentuates the exotic, mysterious qualities of
Delbecqs music that, in the past, have been tempered in other settings.
Propelled by a cool attack, the music lingers in the air like incense, pungent
but not overwhelming. Nu-Turn is an excellent way to become familiar with one of
the most distinctive pianists on the international scene. (JazzTimes, Bill
Shoemaker) 

Benoit Delbecq, Piano 

Tracklist:
01. Benoit Delbecq - In Rainbows (7:13)
02. Benoit Delbecq - In Lilac (8:17)
03. Benoit Delbecq - On ne dit pas regarder la lune, on dit luner (6:44)
04. Benoit Delbecq - On Laterite (7:50)
05. Benoit Delbecq - Into Neon (5:59)
06. Benoit Delbecq - On Embers (5:38)
07. Benoit Delbecq - Nu-Turn (étude de nu) (6:11)
08. Benoit Delbecq - In Funfairs (4:41)
09. Benoit Delbecq - Into White (11:03)

Related artists