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Album Available July 17th
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Previously unavailable on CD, HERMANN SZOBEL's Szobelwas
originally released by Arista Records in 1976. Over the years the album has
established a worldwide cult following and the mysterious Mr. SZOBEL has
become a bit of an enigma.
SZOBEL was a 17-year virtuoso pianist who
arrived from Austria with aspirations to become a star in the world of jazz.
He also happened to be the nephew of rock impresario Bill Graham. Originally
intended for release on Arista's Freedom jazz imprint, the decision was made
by Clive Davis to release the debut album on Arista proper in order to give
it a chance at a broader appeal.
An extraordinary band was assembled to record SZOBEL's
highly complex music: Michael Visceglia on bass, Bob Goldman on drums, Dave
Samuels on percussion including marimba and vibraphone, and Vadim Vyadro on
tenor sax, clarinet, and flute.SZOBEL was highly influenced by
Martial Solal and Frank Zappa. His compositions are rooted in jazz, rock and
Western classical composition. They are extremely complex and the recording
sessions were quite laborious. While he gives space to all of the musicians,
his phenomenal technique as a pianist is clearly displayed.
In the September 6, 1976 issue of Downbeat the review said
that SZOBEL had "a conception and technique far in
advance of most musicians twice his age." Upon its release the album did
not sell well and SZOBEL's behavior became more and more
eccentric. In the middle of recording a second (still unreleased) album,
rumor has it that he suffered a mental breakdown. He disappeared from the
music world forever. Since then rumors have swirled and a mythology has been
created. Unconfirmed reports have Mr. SZBOEL currently
living in Austria. Szobel has now been mastered for
CD release by audiophile engineer Bob Katz. Extensive liner notes by bassist
Michael Visceglia unlock some of the mysteries of HERMANN SZOBEL.
For More Info Please Visit:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermann_Szobel
http://www.lasercd.com
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