Although largely overlooked even in his native France, an avid cult has been building around Jef Gilson’s music. The eclectic Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth fame collects pressings, and journalist Gilles Peterson has praised his recordings. Composer, pianist, sound engineer, producer, label owner, Gilson played bop, modal, free, world music. Jean-Luc Ponty and Michel Portal first found their footing working with Gilson. Nathan Davis, Woody Shaw, Philly Joe Jones, David Murray, hung out, recorded and toured with Gilson. Archie Shepp, Randy Weston, Martial Solal, Steve Lacy made albums in Gilson’s studio. This album’s first four pieces comprise the Suite Pour San Remo. The first section, Ouverture, a jazz waltz, with a sophisticated arrangement, moves to Amadeo and a cutting Dolphyesque alto solo. Adriano is a modal piece with masterful soprano and tenor solos. Arrigo is a relaxed blues with a blistering sax riding free on top. I A.M. is and up-tempo blues in 6/8 with impressive horn solos, 120 À La Noire, a comfortable medium tempo piece with a Mingus feel. Free Call opens with a Latin flavor, while Chromatisme harmonically half-steps up and down the scale; tempo changes and free play dominate. Adventurous and eclectic, the album combines bop, model, free, and a bit of Latin jazz in Gelson’s inimitable orchestral style. Up until now most of his albums have been rare collectors’ items. Good to see his music available to a wider public.
