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Sylwester Ostrowski: Jammin' With KC
BySylwester Ostrowski
saxophone
Charlie Parker
saxophone, alto1920 - 1955
Ostrowski assembled a collection of musicians ranging from well-established players to relative newcomers. The musicians featured here also represent diverse cultural backgrounds, which is fitting considering that Ostrowski is a jazz ambassador in his own right. Inspired by

Dave Brubeck
piano1920 - 2012
Jammin' With KC features Ostrowski on tenor saxophone along with American musicians such as

Bobby Watson
saxophone, altob.1953

Eric Allen
drumsb.1978

Logan Richardson
saxophone, altoThe wide range of talent represented here emphasizes the diverse nature of the album. Jammin' With KC offers a selection of jazz modes ranging from straight-ahead bebop to more contemporary styles. The selections included emphasize the broad scope and possibilities of jazz music.
The album opens and closes with different variations on the tune "Burnt Ends." The first version features a solid organ, bass, and drum groove with plenty of improvisation from The Jazz Forum Talents. This is followed by "Burnt Ends (Welcome to Kansas City)," a much more modern interpretation of the melody, featuring rapper The Royal Chief. The album closes with "Burnt Ends (Key)," which features a completely different take on the melody that highlights

Keyon Harrold
trumpetThe different variations on this melody serve as something of a metaphor for Ostrowski's overall take on the music represented here. In spite of the differences in presentations and styles, there is an underlying theme connecting all of the diverse elements.
Some of the songs take a very modern approach. "Sketches of Missouri" and "Once in Omaha," for example, feature a somewhat atmospheric and ethereal sound. Both songs seem somewhat reminiscent of music that might appear on an ECM release.
The upbeat, "Chief's Kingdom" pays homage the Kansas City Chiefs and their 2019 Super Bowl victory. The song's melody originates from the Chiefs' fans chant during the games. The Chiefs had just won the Super Bowl when Ostrowski arrived, and the overall spirit in Kansas City following the victory inspired him to write this song.
Considering Ostrowski's initial reason for making the trip to Kansas City, it's only natural that Charlie Parker gets his share of recognition on this album. Jammin' With KC features two Parker standards: "Confirmation" and "Donna Lee." Both versions are standouts on the album, showcasing the musicians' exceptional improvisational skills.
Sylwester Ostrowski's Jammin' With KC is a fitting tribute not only to Charlie Parker and Kansas City but also to the global reach of jazz music. Ostrowski's talent is impressive, and his passion and enthusiasm for jazz comes across strongly on this release. ">
Track Listing
Burnt Ends; Burnt Ends Welcome to Kansas City; Sketches of Missouri; Donna Lee; Chiefs Kingdom; Dog's Ducks; Once in Omaha; Confirmation; Burnt Ends Key.
Personnel
Sylwester Ostrowski
saxophoneBobby Watson
saxophone, altoLogan Richardson
saxophone, altoKeyon Harrold
trumpetEric Allen
drumsDominique Sanders
bassKasia Pietrzko
pianoMaciej K?dziela
saxophoneJakub Mizeracki
guitarTomasz Chy?a
violinKacper Smoliński
harmonicaThe Royal Chief
vocalsLaura Taglialatela
vocalsDaniel Hogans
drumsAlbum information
Title: Jammin' With KC | Year Released: 2020 | Record Label: Agora Records
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