Album Reviews

The powerhouse Norwegian guitarist is on his most fiery and propulsive form here, aided and abetted by a big band, in a live set that has some electrifying moments. Rypdal uses samples and passages of flat-out rock jamming throughout the programme, which is admirably energetic, even if it occasionally tips over into the raucous. It's not all about power, though, when Rypdal cools the mood on Waves and Descendre, the performances are serenely attractive. AV

Erroll Garner: The Most Happy Piano (American Jazz Classics) 9.99

Here's a splendid package – four albums from the mid-50s making their debut on CD and finding the impish, constantly surprising pianist on his finest form. A bassist and drummer are on hand throughout, but Garner hardly needs them. His rhythmic drive carries every performance. All the Garner trademarks are in place – long, teasing introductions, startling solo flights, wit and an often touching lyricism on slower numbers. It's lovely stuff. AV

Paganini: Fritz Kreisler arrangements (Naxos 8.570703) 8.99

Prepare to be amazed by the remarkable Russian-born virtuoso violinist, Philippe Quint. Kreisler's arrangements of some of Paganini's showpieces, replaced the orchestra with a piano accompaniment, and then added more to the already finger-knotting difficulties. No wonder few violinists ever perform them, but Quint shrugs off the challenges in the two Introduction and Variations on Rossini themes; flies through the Moto perpetuo, and thrills with the high-jinks of Le streghe. Dmitriy Cogan's is a fine partner in excellent sound. DD

Serebrier: Symphony No. 1/Violin Concerto/Double Bass Concerto (Naxos 8.559648) 8.99

He had his First Symphony played when he was 17, made his American conducting debut just two years later, and today Jose Serebrier is one of the most recorded artists. The two concertos are big and exciting showpieces, stunningly played by double bass guru, Gary Karr, with Quint appearing in another technical showdown this time with a turbulent orchestral backdrop. Add two pleasing tangos, the youthful and energetic symphony and you have a very attractive modern music disc. DD